Alopecia Areata: Ophiasis Pattern
Posted by: HSP Woman on: December 17, 2007
- Losing hair in patches.
- Sudden bald spots.
- Wigs women alopecia.
- Round bald spots.
- My alopecia.
- Alopecia in my 30s.
- Bald spot pubic.
- Alopecia areata stress.
- Women get bald spots too.
- Bald women video.
- Silver dollar sized bald spots.
Because I see Search Terms like these every day, I thought I’d give an update on my alopecia areata. Although it’s not directly linked to benzodiazepine withdrawal or agoraphobia, it’s still a big part of my life.
The last time I posted about it was in June.
Then, I took this photo:
My alopecia areata: June 2007.
Today, six months later, it looks more like this:
My alopecia areata: December 2007.
My red birthmark (also known as a “stork bite” or “angel’s kiss” birthmark), normally doesn’t show when the back of my head is properly covered in hair. This is really a birthmark, and it has no connection to alopecia.
Most noticeably, the spot over my right ear has connected with the bald patch in the back. In turn, the spot in the back joined with a new spot over the left ear.
I was inspired recently to search for other people who have a similar pattern of alopecia. I thought I couldn’t be that unique. I still was really blown away when I found this information:
Ophiasis type of alopecia areata shows a band-like hair loss. It occurs mostly in the temporal [side] or the occipital [back] regions of the scalp, and therefore more difficult to treat, as most medicines have a delayed action on these areas.
Ophiasis type of alopecia is identified by a turban or snake-like pattern on the periphery of the scalp. Ophiasis in Greek means serpent, and this is how the disease gets its name.
Interesting, no?
I have alopecia areata: ophiasis type. I guess I am rare after all, as it is not very common among my fellow alopecians.
I felt less alone when I found a few photos of other people showing a very similar ophiasis pattern:
Ophiasis pattern alopecia (not me).
And, this one:
More ophiasis pattern alopecia (also not me).
This web site states:
Poor prognostic indicators for regrowth include duration greater than 5 years, prepubescent onset, alopecia totalis or universalis, and the ophiasis pattern. Some studies have shown the presence of nail pits to be an adverse prognostic factor.
Unfortunately, I do have a prepubescent onset (just barely) and the ophiasis pattern. Also, some of my nails also show small dents or “pits.”
But, I have not had the ophiasis pattern alopecia for more than five years. The back portion of my hair loss started first, about two years ago. Six months later, more or less, the right patch above my ear begin to advance. Finally, within the last 6-8 months the hair in the region above my left ear started falling out.
It’s only during these last 3-4 months that all three areas have joined in my beautiful and unique snake-like pattern. Actually, someone really had it right when he described the ophiasis pattern as “putting a bowl on your head and shaving the hair around it.”
The “pineapple” description was also pretty visual.
Ophiasis pattern alopecia: looks like a pineapple top!
I joke, but really I have found some great information and support here:
- Women’s Hairloss Project
- Bald Girls Do Lunch
- Team Alopecia
- Alopecia Areata Support Community
- Alopecia Support (Yahoo Group)
If you’re reading this post because you have small, round bald spots, please don’t panic that it will metamorphose into the ophiasis pattern. I read it’s really rare; usually people have one pattern or the other.
But, one good thing about the my alopecia is that it’s still undetectable in normal, everyday situations.
Alopecia is just so unpredictable. Some people lose a lot of hair, and in six months it all grows back.
I am kind of preparing mentally for having to wear scarves or wigs. I don’t dread this actually. Part of me really wouldn’t mind just being done with this s-l-o-w balding process.
At least it’s kind of reassuring to know my alopecia is following some known pattern. There is a method to the madness after all!
53 Responses to "Alopecia Areata: Ophiasis Pattern"
December 17, 2007 at 9:38 pm
Cute photo! Very funny. Maybe I can do the same some day.
Why do you shave?
I guess since my baldness isn’t readily visible, I haven’t had the thought of losing my femininity yet.
But, then again, I’ve always thought really short hair on women is most attractive. I know many people would disagree with me.
I’ve always wished I had the features that suit a cropped style…
If I got a wig though, I could be long one day and really short and funky the next.
Sounds kind of liberating, in fact!
I am lucky my husband is attracted to me regardless of my hair (at least that’s what he says now…).
What proof are you referring to? Symmetrical but nontraditional?
December 18, 2007 at 7:00 pm
Dear HSP, I was moved to read your post and genuinely wish to say that you are a very brave lady to deal with this on top of everything else. I would not be so strong in the same situation I’m sure of it, my hair is so fine and yours does appear to be thick enough to cover those areas when it’s down if you say it’s not normally detectable. There is a young lady over here called Gail Porter, an actress and model, very famous, who lost it all literally overnight, and it will never grow back. She made a television programme about it and met a lady with the same who switched her wig depending on the day or her mood. She loved the option of being flamboyant with them. Gail went home to her boyfriend with one of these wigs and he made her take it off, because he loved and was so used to her without her hair, that he didn’t like it and wanted his girl back as she was to him. The nation too has grown used to it and she is inundated with television work now. It doesn’t have to be a negative experience I guess is the message. I too think that short hair is very fetching and looks good if your dressed up or dressed down. With my warmest wishes, Steph
Dear Steph,
Happy New Year!
Yes, I’ve heard about Gail Porter on different alopecia web sites. She’s beautiful! And, thank you for the support and listening ear. Too bad we’re too far away for supportive hugs!
It’s interesting what Gail’s partner said to her about him not liking the wig. I think I’d prefer to be bald, at least around people I know. Oh, and also when hiking or exercising. But in daily chores and errands (well, not like I do a lot of those!) I think I might like a wig. You know, to blend in…
Or, maybe not! Like you said, sometimes I can be very brave!
The ability to change hair styles with mood would be an advantage though!
Thanks again, Steph.
December 20, 2007 at 9:45 pm
“What proof are you referring to? Symmetrical but nontraditional?”
mohawk and bald women, many “suicide girls”(trademark) have different hair
Wow!
Had no clue about the “suicide girls” before! Just checked it out. From what I can see, I love their self-expressions!
Different hair can be very good! Thanks for teaching me something new.
December 20, 2007 at 9:49 pm
“Why do you shave?” I am in between fully haired and bald. I don’t like the halfway, so shave it. At first it was fun, but I got used to it, so its boring now. Two reasons, no haircut expenses and no shampo and conditioner to buy.
Do you use a regular razor? Shaving cream? I need to ask these things now…
December 23, 2007 at 6:26 pm
I hope that you have a good Christmas and that everything improves for you in 2008. Best wishes
Hi there, Robert 
Thank you so much! You’re so sweet. I hope you and Marie (and the kids) have the best year ever. I am hopeful this year’s going to be great for us all!
Happy New Year!
January 31, 2008 at 7:15 pm
you still ok out there?
Haven’t heard from u in a while
Hi Sweets 
I’m still here! Thanks for checking in.
I’m feeling better each day since stopping the meds. BUT, I still have my anxiety and its accompanying depression.
I’ve learned that if one has panic and depression before starting benzos, then one will most likely still have anxiety post-benzos.
Many people only start getting panicky after starting benzos. In this case, stopping benzos stops the panic.
So, I am trying hard to deal with the anxiety in other ways — therapy, vitamins, breathing, diet…
I do feel much more even-tempered than when I was taking chronic benzos though.
It’s just hard to have agoraphobia. I am so over it! Too bad it doesn’t just magically disappear 
February 4, 2008 at 3:55 pm
Hi ,,Thanks for visiting my blog was a nice suprise…first comment from the states…. your blog is unreal and oh how u have been suffering hun…. I shal add you to my link page ok…xx And Yes pets are great X my salvation at times xxx
Welcome, Rachel
First from the States? Wow! It’s funny that so many of my blogging friends are from your part of the world. It’d be great if some day I could fly over there and meet you all in person! I was in London once for a wedding, but only for a couple of days. LOVED IT. But, that was before the agoraphobia really set in 
Thanks for stopping by
PS: I edited your blog’s URL so that your name is linked to your web page. Somehow it got truncated. It’s working now.
March 11, 2008 at 10:27 am
Hi there, just wanted you to know that if I had pics of myself you would not believe it, except I think your alot younger, our hairloss is exactly the same right down to the birthmark, Isnt that just too weird. I have had AA for about 8 years or so now, and mine started with about a golf ball sized hole at the nape of my neck on one side, took about a year but grew back in, was ok for about six months or so and than lost it again only both sides of back this time. took some time to grow back but did. now this last time about year ago I started noticing that the space between my ear and back hair line, like a big wheel well, was getting spacier, then just like you, the big merge began, right now my hair is growing back, somewhat, but like you what is left of my hair is pretty thick still and am covering my baldness except I have alot of problem with the area above my ears, it keeps parting there and my much disliked ears poke out. (I have always thought my ears were too big.) You mentioned that this pattern is somewhat rare, but like you I keep seeing pic of it on the web. I have some questions for you, Have you been using any treatments?? Has yours begun to grow back?? Is this the only time of loss, or have you had this happen many times with grow backs in between like me?? Just really curious, I belong to the Alopecia Support Community, and I see you added that site. Perhaps I will see you there for a chat also. bye for now.
April 2, 2008 at 8:13 pm
Hi Christine!
Wow and wow again! The exact same pattern and the same birthmark?
Is your loss greater, too, above your right ear like mine?
I am turning 40 in about a week, FYI.
You write your ophiasis pattern began with a small bald patch at the nape?
Very interesting. Mine started as small, round patches everywhere — really no obvious pattern. But certainly not Ophiasis pattern.
Maybe what’s rare is that movement — from the more common random bald patches to the snake-like ophiasis pattern.
I am starting to get a part, too, around my ears — especially since starting to wear glasses regularly again.
Regarding treatment: when my patches first started back when I was about 12, I started having the corticosteroid injections regularly.
At that time, too, there were many newfangled creams and such. Back in 1981-82, the dermatologist blamed me for being too stressed. In his mind, this condition was 100% self-inflicted! Thank G*d we know more and more, like for example, that there is a genetic component to alopecia.
I had a new bunch of coined-shaped bald area off and on throughout my life from junior high through graduate school and early into my marriage at age 26.
Everything was fine for a while, then only relatively recently (mid-30s) did the one small patch above my right ear evolve into the Ophiasis Pattern.
I started with the scalp injections early on, but to no avail. Even the dermatologist wasn’t hopeful about a remission this time.
She did not mention anything called Ophiasis, but she said when there is hair loss on the border — the hair line — it’s the hardest to treat and the most unlikely to grow back.
But, the good thing I believe about this Ophiasis Pattern, is that it pretty much stops about where I have it now.
I have heard of very, very few cases where this pattern transforms into alopecia universalis or totalis.
Back to the treatment, sorry — so easy to get sidetracked!
So, because these last 3-4 sessions of injections were nothing but pain and no regrowth, I decided to stop going to see my dermatologist.
I’ve tried so many creams and shampoos and everything, that I became a little cynical maybe.
So, at this moment in time, I am just leaving it be. In the past month or so, I’ve noticed less hair falling.
Maybe it’s decided to halt its progression in the very least. Maybe I’ll even get some regrowth.
I feel fortunate my baldness doesn’t show under normal circumstances.
But, the other day, I was out on a public walk on a breezy day, and I was so self-conscious.
Wind blowing doesn’t help my hair at all! Luckily I had a hoodie to pull up.
I need to visit the ASC more often. I will look for you! I’ll be called HSP Woman
Thanks so much for your comment, and I apologize for taking so long to get back to you.
I’d love to see a photo of your hair loss! If you like, please email me some photos. I could even post them on this blog as another example, if you agree.
hspwoman (at) sbc global (dot) net
April 10, 2008 at 10:58 am
I was diagnosed with Alopecia Areata about 3 weeks ago. The hair loss began as far as I can tell a couple months ago, and it is moving fast. I’ve lost all the hair above my neck, I’m starting to lose it behind both my ears, and it’s thinning badly on both of my temples. Was this how your hair loss started? I’m trying to figure out what to expect next.
Welcome Sheridan
First, I am so sorry that you are experiencing alopecia, too. It’s not well-understood, and each person’s balding pattern is so different!
You write that your hair loss is happening rapidly. Mine is so slow!
In my case, just prior to the ophiasis pattern, I had the bald spot at my nape for months (years?). The patch over my right ear happened a little more quickly; it took about 6 months or so to connect with bald area in the back.
Finally, the right area above my ear started falling.
For me (again, everyone’s different), my hair loss seems to come in spurts. What I mean by this is that maybe for a few months, it’s more active. By active I mean when I gently tug on periphery of bald area I will get about 10-20 hairs in my fingers. These are hairs with the little bulb still attached on the end. I think doctors call them “exclamation point hairs.”
Then, after the active period, it’s not too common to get any hairs when I *gently* tug at the border.
Also, I know my hair loss is in the active phase when I wash my hair and a large number of hairs appear in my hands (especially while using conditioner for some reason).
I send you lots of supportive energy. Do check out the alopecia support web sites. They can be a big source of comfort.
April 12, 2008 at 4:46 pm
Hi There,
Thanks for your expressions on your blog. Sending healing light your way. May love and beauty surround you always.
Jenna
Thank you so much, Jenna! I accept the healing light you send my way with gratitude!
April 22, 2008 at 8:23 pm
This is the first time I’ve heard of the ophiasis pattern. I’ve been diagnosed with AA and I seem to be developing this pattern. The baldness started above my left ear then started to spread down so that my hairline by the nape of my neck keeps rising. The baldness then spread to the right side above my right ear. This has been going on for nearly 9 months. Now I notice the hair on both sides of my head is getting thinner underneath. Luckily, so far, my baldness is not obvious because it’s all underneath but at the rate my hair falls out every time I wash my hair, I’m afraid it will become obvious. I am currently using Rogaine but only a little over a month. I tried a cortisone ointment and cortisone injections but no hair growth occurred. I heard of a compounded medication called DPCP. Has anyone been treated with this with success?
Welcome, Judy!
Isn’t the internet great? I am so glad you found a name for your balding pattern. I felt so happy when I finally found out I wasn’t alone in my alopecia, too. That my “pattern” wasn’t unheard of before!
My doctor never mentioned “ophiasis pattern.” I was like you; I found it by digging around on the internet.
Your pattern definitely sounds just like mine. Well, I should say, just like my alopecia is now. For many years (my alopecia started when I was 12, and I am now 40), my baldness manifested itself as little round patches of hair loss. Like I mentioned, I think a person tends to have little patches OR an ophiasis (or inverse/reverse ophiasis) pattern — not both.
I have never tried Rogaine. Is it helping? I always thought that Rogaine was for a very specific type of hair loss — not the autoimmune kind like we have. But, I would love to know more about it. Please let me know if it works for you! That’d be great.
And, regarding the DPCP you mention, I have never heard about it. What is it? Have you heard of it being successful for alopecia? Very interesting. I’ll definitely research it.
Thanks for the information!
April 24, 2008 at 12:37 pm
Hi, I just wanted to let you know that my alopecia seems to be following the same pattern. It started with a small bald patch at the back, then the sides, now its all kind of starting to merge together. Thank you for sharing your pics, it’s good to know I’m not alone!
Gosh, Amy, it’s so good to hear from you.
I am very happy you decided to leave a comment here.
You are definitely not alone.
April 26, 2008 at 11:46 pm
This is Judy again. Yes the internet is great. I’m not sure who I’m writing to but the person whose hair loss started when they were 12 and is 40 now. Has your loss been continuous since you were 12 or has your hair come back in between? I was worried and I’ve only been losing my hair since August of 2007. I’ve only been using Rogaine continuously for a little over a month and the instructions say that it can take 3-4 months before you see results. I read online that Retin-A (used for wrinkles and acne) may be helpful when used in combination with Rogaine, especially in women. I’ll have to ask my doctor this. About DPCP, here is the website about it: http://www.ijdvl.com/article.asp?issn=0378-6323;year=2007;volume=73;issue=6;spage=432;epage=433;aulast=Singh. I have also just read about something called Calosol to treat hair loss and will have to ask my doctor about this too.
Hi again, Judy.
This is HSP Woman. My hair loss is cyclic. But, I cannot determine the pattern. It started at 12 and grew back. Then, as I recall, I started losing again around 18, and it grew back. Then, again, I started losing at 23. Then, 26… Most recently, at about 36-37. So, there’s really no obvious pattern to the loss that I can determine.
Except… Well, all of these times of hair loss could be correlated with big transitions/changes/challenges in my life. But, is the the change that caused the loss, or vice versa?
How old were you when your hair first started falling out?
I really hope your treatment works for you. I just have been really unsatisfied with all treatments I’ve been exposed to in my life, so far. It just regrows when it wants to.
I am learning just to go with the flow, the tide… It’s a strange disease. No one really has a guaranteed cure. I hope one is discovered soon.
Thanks for the link.
-HSP Woman
May 3, 2008 at 12:20 am
I BEEN DOING SOME RESEARCH ON ALOPECIA AND I CAME ACROSS YOUR SITE. MINE STARTED 1 YEAR AGO, IN SMALL PATCHES …NOW I HAVE NO HAIR AT ALL…I’VE BEEN BALD SINCE AUG 07…I HAVE NO HAIR ON MY BODY AT ALL EITHER.. THIS IS DEVESTATING TO ME B/C I DONT SEE ANYTHING GROWING BACK HAVE YOU TRIED ANYTHING TO GET YOUR HAIR BACK?
Greetings, Desiree
I am glad you stopped by. How old are you, if I may ask? When your hair first started falling out, was that the first time for you?
How long did it take to all fall out? Alopecia universalis, I read, only occurs in 1 in 100,000 people. It’s very rare. I am so sorry you have to deal with it. I send you a big hug.
I am curious, do you have other autoimmune disorders? Lupus? Hashimoto’s thyroiditis?
Despite the apparent randomness of this disorder, it seems to me that people either have, alopecia areata (patches), ophiasis pattern (like mine), totalis (just the head hair loss), or universalis (like you).
So, to me, there seems to be some pattern doctors should be able to discover.
I did try to use lots of creams and injections to help, but it just doesn’t work for me. I am just letting time pass now. It usually grows back. It just grows back on its own time schedule.
Thank you for sharing. I hope you find some peace soon.
-HSP Woman
May 8, 2008 at 7:22 am
hi i also developed this pattern but for my bad luck mine satrted in the front andd then a big hole on the back and started to spread to the ears this took like 5 months, rigth now i am takin cortisteroids and the hair did grew but ifor a month i have been taking a lesser dose and some hair began to fall, some, not all so ia am srill hopeful, how is your doing
Good afternoon, Gina.
I believe your hair loss pattern is called “inverse” or “reverse” ophiasis pattern, but I am not sure. I also want to send you a hug, too.
Are you taking oral steroids or the scalp injections?
Corticosteroids, since they “turn off” the immune response do seem to work for some people. The problem is, most people don’t want to turn off their immune systems for too long (we need our immune systems to fight infections, colds, etc). I did hear that scalp injections are less harmful (because the turn off is localized).
Thanks for asking how my hair loss is doing. In the past three weeks (today is June 29, 2008), I have had some regrowth above my left ear. I will post a photo soon. But, on the other hand, I have had significant loss above my left ear. Now, both sides more or less match.
My hair loss really seems to have a life of its own!
-HSP Woman
May 13, 2008 at 10:26 am
I am a 37 year old mom who woke up one morning with a baseball sized bald spot.Shocking, yes! Thankfully the way my hair lays (and I have thick, or shall I said had think hair). I have found out I have Lupus. I did not know these -Alopecia Areata- bald spots can come with Lupus. If you are seeing bald spots, please see a doctor, It can mean something serious, At the rate my bald spots are growing, I may be in a wig soon (if they dont stop). We have prepared the kids (ages 14-4) and they actually are helping pick out the wig. Its always important to make sure everyone feels comfortable and understands. My kids would have been very fearful had they seen my hair loss and not know why. Have a greay day everyone.
Welcome, Keriann.
Thanks for sharing.
That’s a very good point. Everyone with hair loss should be checked for lupus and also for thyroid problems. Hormonal imbalances can also cause hair loss in women. I know many woman first lose their hair post-partum (after birth).
Our bodies are amazing and delicate biological systems, aren’t they?
Again, good advice. I hope you feel better soon.
-HSP Woman
May 16, 2008 at 4:47 pm
In March 2008, I took a bath and literally filled the bathtub with hair, over the last two months I’ve lost about 80% of my hair … so I shaved the rest (clippers not bic). I was offered an “aggressive” treatment using Methotrexate, where I would have to take a pill once a week and then have my white blood cell count taken weekly. But the resident doctor that was observing told me (when the doc left the room) she had seen patients that had a drastic reduction of white blood cells and wound up hospitalized due to illness. And the medication will abort any fertilized egg. It just doesn’t seem worth it for hair.
Thank you all for your posts, I’ve grappled with weather I should wear scarves or wigs. When I wear scarves people think I’m going through chemo and I feel more comfortable with just my head (it is shaped great!).
you’re all in my prayers.
BTW, I’ll be 32 on May 30.
Good evening
Your attitude is inspirational. Thank you for sharing your experience. Was this episode the first time you had hair loss? Are you taking hormones for fertility? I am asking only because I am trying to figure out possible triggers. It seems each one of us with hair loss has a different reason entirely!
Very frustrating, but I just love your confidence. Happy birthday, too!
-HSP Woman
June 9, 2008 at 1:23 am
hi, im 16 and i started losing my hair only a month ago and i already have a pattern very similar to yours (never heard of the ophiasis pattern) my hair loss seems to be very rapid and the area of baldness is doubling about every week to fortnight. im recieving about 70 cortisone injections every fortnight into the area (ouch!……..but luckly im recieving the injections under general anesthetic and i still stay in the kids ward……….TLC from the really nice nurses there………..) and i am experiencing quite alot of regrowth but the patch is still growing………….i have really thick hair which is gud but im starting to prepare myself for a wig sometime in the near future………the dermatolagist says she expects i will be bald in 1 or 2 months and says my alopecia is particualy aggresive………….i know this is a hard thing to deal with at any age…….but 16????? not exactly ideal………….i havent had much time to aquaint myself with the idea
Hi there, Celie
Wow! General anesthesia every two weeks? That’s what I call aggressive treatment. My old body would never tolerate it!
I have to say, I think you may not be totally bald if your hair loss pattern is similar to mine. I have read very few cases in which ophiasis progresses to universalis. I hope I am right and the doctor is wrong.
I was 12 when mine first occurred, so I know it’s not easy for you. Sixteen is an age where one should not have to be burdened with this challenge. Please, be strong. Find the silver lining in it (I know, easier said than done).
You could be a wonderful inspiration for other young people with alopecia. I wish you comfort soon. Please, do check in again. Let us know how you’re doing.
-HSP Woman
June 29, 2008 at 12:17 pm
Hi there again, I just found your post again, sorry it took so long, it was great to see your response, I will say you look much younger in photos than 40, I am 51, mine started about 43-45 yrs of age, which I know is unusual, there is a possibility that I had an episode when I was 2, my Mom had told me that she was hospitalized for about 2 wks, when she returned my hair had fallen out in quarter size spots all over my head. I had already lost my Mom when my AA appeared, so couldn’t quiz her on it. I did ask an older sister, and she thinks that she remembers it. I have used Clobetasol, Nioxin follicle booster and shampoo, and I even tried the Thymuskin, really hoping it would be the cure that they promised (I noticed nothing except it seemed I lost even more hair) I made the decision not to do the injections, as what I have read seems to suggest that they do little for those of us with ophiasis pattern. Thank you, for what you said that most with this pattern do not become AT or AU, as most of us would say, this is such a fear, almost like this cloud of insecurity hanging over us. Like you, I dont much care for the wind, I live in Wa state and it is often quite breezy. It sounds like your hairloss is much like mine, except that when I’m going through a shedding period it just takes a matter of months, before I’m smooth, at least so far. I also, like you ,seem to cycle…….right now I am in remission, “Thank you Lord.” I almost think mine is seasonal, I seem to have alot of loss around the fall (no pun intended) and winter, and start regrowth in spring and summer. I will look for you on AA support community, I am praisehymn. I would post pics but I have never done that???? will need to learn how, will get back to you then. Bye for now, you can email me direct also. hope to talk to you soon, Ive added this to favorites so won’t lose you this time.
Christine : )
June 29, 2008 at 4:54 pm
Dear Christine,
Nice to hear from you again.
I bought a cute hat recently. It really helps me going out. I walk without worrying too much that my bald spots will show in the breeze.
I’m having some accelerated loss above my left ear recently. A little area above the right is growing back though!
Very strange because it’s not the area that fell out first that is growing back first. One would assume the first out would be the first in…
I have Nioxin, too. Doesn’t do a thing. It’s expensive, and NOT worth it!
I am really working on just accepting my hair loss as it is what it is. I remind myself often there are much worse disorders I could have.
I try hard to remember to count my blessings.
Any photos you send would be great. Again, my email is HSPwoman@sbcglobal.net.
Have a good evening, Christine.
-HSP Woman
July 13, 2008 at 6:38 pm
Dear HSP Woman–this is Judy again. I’m #15 above. I just started losing my hair at the end of August of 2007. I’m 56 years old. I steadily kept losing large amounts until about 2 months ago, after I started taking Biotin tablets (good for hair and nails and over the counter) and using Protopic ointment (prescribed by my doctor) but I’m not sure if it was coincidental or not. Now it’s just a matter of getting my hair back. A little bit of hair (growing in white which is typical but will turn color) is coming back here and there but mostly not. I did have some corticosteroid injections but can no longer have them because due to another medical condition I have, cannot take steroids. I have just started on squaric acid applied to my scalp in a small area to see if that will start growth. It cause your skin to react (turns red, itchy and scabby) and the idea is to stimulate the root of the hair to start growing hair again. It’s just wait and see now. I’ll keep you updated. The dermatologist I am seeing specializes in autoimmune diseases of the skin.
Hi Judy,
How is the squaric acid treatment going? Gosh, it sounds painful. But, I am sure you are in good hands with your specialist. I think my dermatologist didn’t know anything about alopecia! I hope you are feeling well.
-HSP Woman
July 23, 2008 at 9:59 am
Hi there,
I’m a 28yr old asian female, and I’ve had AA-ophiasis for about two years now. I have tried various treatments and thought I’d share with others. My current hair status is very similar to the pix shown above. The progression- starting from a small patch behind left ear, then above the neck, and gradually the band pattern across the back-took about a year.
I started treatment about a year ago with monthly cortisone injections. After a few months, my then dermatologist thought I needed a more aggressive treatment, so I started weekly DPCP with a new doc. That went on for about 5 months, and I saw some new hair growing above the neck after two months, but the progress was very slow and it didn’t prevent new hair falling out. So after 5 months of DPCP, I am doing monthly injections again in combination with Aldara 5% application daily. Aldara works in a similar way as DPCP (induces an allergic response to thwart your antibodies from attacking hair), and my dermatologist tells me that the combination of injections+aldara is most effective…
As for the progress, I am definitely seeing new growth in the back of my head (although not uniformly everywhere, but in patches), but the area above my ears are not responding as well as the back area. Apparently the disease is more resistent to treatment in the sides, where I am still losing hair despite injections. Anyway, I am optimistic that one day I will have a full regrowth, so have faith!
By the way, if any are in the NYC area, the dermatology department at Mt. Sinai is excellent (which is where I go). If you are interested in DPCP, you should go there as no other hospital that I am aware of offers it. (it’s not FDA approved, so most docs are not willing to use it or have no experience with it in treating AA).
-SY
Hi, there, SY
Thank you for sharing your treatment plan. I had a similar (unsuccessful) outcome when I tried injections. It was never suggested to me to do injections and aldera. I will ask my next dermatologist about it.
My regrowth has been a little bit over my right ear (where the hair started falling out a couple of years ago now). The new hairs are right in the front. I never lost that front border completely, but it got down to about 3-4 hairs “deep.”
My nape has a tiny patch of little hairs, too.
The left side continues to fall out. Today, my left bald area is much bigger than the right ever was.
I will add some photos soon.
Good luck!
-HSP Woman
August 8, 2008 at 11:54 am
Hi HSP Woman .. My name is Bonnie and I have suffered from AA for 17 years. I am now 43 years old. I have had approximately 6 bouts with small patches of hair loss in the back by my hair line. 16 years ago they really did not know alot about AA and I was treated orally by Prednisone – my Dr now says that was not a good idea. During my past 6 episodes, I was very successfull with all my hair growing back over the years with injections and because the spots were in inconspicouis places I never worried about anyone seeing them. Until now … I have battled with this current episode of AA for over 1 year with NO success – it just keeps getting worse. My Dr. just told me that it has evolved to Ophiasis – I never knew of such a thing ! This is the first web site I found when I googled Ophiasis and I must say how moved I am by you and all of your kind words to everyone who reaches out to you. While I still have my down moments with this disease, I try for the most part to be positive knowing that if this is the worst thing that happens to me then I am a very lucky person !! I am also very blessed as I have an amazing husband for 16 years who is totally in love with me. Nothing is better than that !! It is nice to know that I am not alone and to all my new AA friends out in cyber-space, may you find peace and comfort as we battle and over come this disease.
Thanks Again HSP Woman, you are an inspiration !!
Good morning, Bonnie
Wow. That’s a good sign that your doctor even knew what ophiasis pattern was! The oral steroids, well, I’ve heard that story a lot, too, unfortunately. I think most doctors know now that’s not the best treatment for alopecia (unless maybe it’s an entire body hair loss?).
I think you made a great point about how we are fortunate alopecia doesn’t hurt (physically, at least). Also, you are right on when you talk about the community support. It’s amazing!
People today who are first diagnosed with alopecia have an advantage that I didn’t have when I was young — the Internet.
My doctor told me when I was 12 and crying in his office because I thought I was going bald — He said, “It’s your fault.” He said I caused it because I cannot handle stress well.
I felt so guilty!
Well, I know better now. I know it’s not my fault, that alopecia is an autoimmune disease pretty much 100% out of my control.
Okay, I’m rambling.., Thank you, Bonnie, for stopping by!
-HSP Woman
October 15, 2008 at 2:20 am
Hi there, Me too! Grateful to find that my alopecia pattern is not as weird as it seemed. It has happened very suddenly over the past two months. I had a pony tail nearly as thick as my wrist and down past my bum, but I cut most of my hair off as I couldn’t handle the wads of hair falling out when shampooing and brushing. Funnily, cutting my hair was not particularly upsetting, but these increasingly obvious patches are. Have had blood tests to rule out lupus. Have any of you had iron deficiency (very slight in my case), or hashimotos thyroiditis and has treating these helped at all? Am trying to get an appointment with a dematologist/trichologist currently. Lovely to find you all!
Welcome, Anne
I was diagnosed with Hashimoto’s about 9 years ago (but I probably had it 12 years ago). Treating it has not helped or changed my alopecia pattern or frequency. Well, I guess I can’t be sure; maybe it would have fallen out more if I hadn’t started taking Synthroid/Levoxyl. But, I don’t think the two are correlated in my case, except that there are data that show people who have alopecia tend to have one or more additional autoimmune issues. Treating one though doesn’t affect the other, as I understand it.
My iron stores are fine. I was checked. I haven’t been tested for lupus, but I have no other symptoms indicating it could be lupus.
I am glad you found here that your hair loss pattern is normal. I know I, too, was very relieved to discover “ophiasis.” I thought I was so unique! Not so, but there’s comfort knowing others have the same pattern. It helps to know what to expect, no?
Thanks for stopping by and leaving a comment!
-HSP Woman
October 17, 2008 at 5:41 am
Hello, This is excatly what I have along with all my eyebrows are gone and bottom eyelashes.
Are you seeing a doctor?
I have recently had tons of blood work done but haven’t heard anything yet.
Please help…
Thanks Shannon
Hi Shannon,
Sorry it’s been a while since you left your comment. I hope you are doing well.
I lost my bottom eyelashes, too, at one point. Not since I’ve had the ophiasis pattern, but before when I had the round, bald spots.
My eyebrows got thin in the end (midline area). So, about 5 years ago I got the eyebrow and eyeliner tattoo done. I am so glad I did. Have you checked into that? Even if your eyebrows grow in, you will still have some tattoo there in case you lose hair again. This problem does tend to come and go randomly.
I have had blood work done, too. Lots. I do take thyroid meds, but everything else appears normal. Yet, I still have alopecia.
Please, don’t worry too much about alopecia. It comes and it goes. Let’s hope scientists figure out a cure soon.
Be well. And, check out the different alopecia support groups. It helps me.
-HSP Woman
October 27, 2008 at 8:24 am
Hi
My mouth just dropped open when I saw your pic. Wow, that could be the back of my head I thought! So very similar. It’s taken 3 long years to reach that stage. So slow. First hair loss at the back, over the right ear and now over the left ear. All joined up and quite large. I am just about getting away with wearing very wide head bands (buffs) and hats but they don’t do much for you when your all dressed up for a party!
This is my third episode of AA and I have never had any treatment. I have not read or heard of any creams, lotions or potions that bring your hair back permanently. You may get all or some regrowth but the hair can all fall out again. I wouldn’t want to put myself through unnecessary disappointment and some of the treatment is quite painful. The hair grew back naturally the first two times but with ophiasis I’m not so sure I will get regrowth.
It’s comforting to know that there are more ophiasis sufferers out there too.
Hi Pearl,
All my areas eventually joined up, too. I am very close to having no hair line by my left ear. I bought some wide head bands like you suggested. But I do have some regrowth along the hair line by the right ear.
I agree with you. It’s nice to know other Ophiasis Survivors!
And, thank you for the photos. I will post soon along with a progress photo of my hair loss.
Have a nice holiday season. I did buy another cute hat. It works well.
-HSP Woman
November 12, 2008 at 12:18 am
Hi HSP Woman–
This is Judy again. I have not written since June 2008 when I was being treated with squaric acid. Unfortunately it did not work but fortunately I have since found a dermatologist who specializes in alopecia. He even is on the scientific board of the alopecia foundation. I am in the beginning stages of being treated with another chemical called DNCB. My doctor says with normal alopecia he has been 90% successful and with ophiasis pattern from 70-90% successful with growing hair back. I am keeping my fingers crossed that this treatment will be successful. Wish me luck.
Judy
Welcome back, Judy.
I do wish you luck with the DNCB treatment. Sorry that the squaric acid didn’t work. I am amazed there are dermatologists who specialize in alopecia. My doctors have hardly known anything.
I’ll keep you in my thoughts.
-HSP Woman
November 21, 2008 at 1:40 am
OMG!! I could be reading about myself! The pattern, the birth mark is exactly the same.. Unbelievable, I cant believe 2 other people have the same birthmark and hairloss pattern… and i also have the pitted fingernails. Ive had aa for years, on and off since i was about 3 and mine too seems to have been cyclic and coincide with major transitions/changes. I was diagnosed with hypothyroidism at 23 ( im now 32 ) I had the ophiasis pattern from being about 26 and then sadly my eyebrows went,1 at a time! then 2yrs ago all my hair fell within about 3 weeks or something and has not grown properly since, I am just in the phase of my eyelashes falling.. I am trying puva treatment at the moment, has anyone else tried this??
Just thought id stop by and share, Im still in shock!! XX
Dear Louise,
What a small world, no? Very interesting how similar our patterns/circumstances are. I wonder if I am heading to losing my eyebrows and more again.
How long did you have ophiasis before you lost all your hair?
There must be something behind all of our hair loss. Ophiasis must mean something. Why do we all have this same pattern?
I wonder what is the percentage of people who have ophiasis who eventually lose all hair.
Anyone know any statistics on this?
You sound very positive and well-adjusted. Hints for the group?
Thanks for your comment!
-HSP Woman
November 23, 2008 at 4:09 pm
I am a 43 year old female and have the same pattern with my alopecia, right now I continue to shave it because I was Totalis for close to 10 years and have just gotten use to the bald look on me.
I also wanted to drop by and also let you know about http://www.alopeciaworld.com. A social networking site for people with alopecia.
November 24, 2008 at 4:39 am
Hi HSP Woman,
It’s wonderful to have women read the historories and see your photos. I, too, when totalis started about 12 years ago also had an ophiasis pattern. Diffuse thinning all over, ophiasis up the back and then it all merged.First the body hair, then the head and lastly brows and sometimes lashes.
I hope you’ll visit baldgirlsdolunch.org. I founded BGDL so women have an effective way to feel complete and talk about having AA without shame or embarrassment.
Thank you for your inspirations. Feeling less alone is key.
Thea
December 22, 2008 at 5:02 am
Shave or not?
I have ophiasis and also generalised hair loss across the top of my scalp. I have had a drastic haircut (it was very thick and down past my bum) to help me manage the copious hair fall. Now I am using cortisone and regaine on my scalp. What is left gets sticky and tangled. I have a pathetic little pony tail (to contain falling hairs), some fuzz and lots of bald. I’ve been wearing a scarf, but now wonder if a number 4 clipper cut might be easier to manage. Any ideas on managing regrowth?
January 19, 2009 at 11:53 pm
Hi everyone,
Firstly, Alopecia sucks, but there are always worse things in life. If this is our card, so be it, at least we’re still able and healthy and alive and well
Ok, i have what started as one patch, near my neck on the left side, then it started spreading, getting bigger. at teh same time, up near my left temple, i got another patch. that ended up spreading down to my ear. Then on my right side, same thing happened, until eventually, it all joined up, and it was as if someone put a bowl on my head, and all the hair around it was lost. Even up the top of my head, i had no hair. I just wore really thick headbands to cover it up, and whatever, it’s quite a daunting phase, but i think we have two options.
1. Accept it, and not let it rule our lives and just get on with it. Shave it. life life.
2. Keep wanting to beat it, whilst accepting it, always believe there will one day be a cure. In teh meantime, we shave it, live life and be happy
I believe both options are good ones, and i’m bound to take one of them when all my hair goes.
At the moment, most of it grew back, on my top and sides, except underneath, that whole big band is still there, and at teh moment, i’ve noticed more hair is falling out which is a shame, even the regrowth i’ve had which is now a few inches thick.
I really think once it all goes, i’ll feel a lot better, because i really hate the whole anticipating phase, and it’s heartbreaking waking up seeing hair everywhere. I just wish i could get it off and get on with life, but i’m just waiting for it to get really bad
May I ask, something that bothers me, is how to tell othe rpeople, as i worry about their reaction? I work with kids, so i’m worried about how they’ll handle it, as well as the parents and other colleagues.
Also, how do women with it find meeting guys? I’m very worrie di’ll never find someone to love me once i’m bald. Sounds pathetic maybe, but perhaps it reflects our current society.
Looking forward to hearing from you all
January 24, 2009 at 4:25 am
Hey, SportyAusGirl! Kids seem to be very accepting. I just spent a week camping at the beach and took my hat off to swim. A few asked what happened to my hair, but I suspect that most just didn’t mind. My children were a bit upset at me losing my hair but now are just supportive, finding nice hats and scarves. After the post above I did a number 4 shave, which was liberating and much tidier than the silly little knot of hair I had. However in the last kew weeks I had another huge hairfall, and now have a fuzz of perhaps a couple of hundred hairs, which looks really funny. I’m Aussie too (Sydney)
January 26, 2009 at 8:14 pm
Hi there
I live in Toronto, Canada and I love reading all the comments…. it makes me feel like part of a big party….(that none of us really want to be part of!). I am 45 and have alopecia ophiasis type. I am loosing hair from the top of my head too. I find hair everywhere! In the car, on my pillow, on the computer…. evn found some in my soup the other day! I have tried several treatments – none have worked for me. On Feb 8th – I am being fitted for my “new hair”…. I am ready for it. It is amazing how this disease has taught me to take each day as it comes…. and focus on what I have…. not what I do not have. I think at my age it is easier than for children and teenagers and even young adults. I am beginning to tell people – and trying to stay strong and role model strength and resiliency. We all have that!
Best Wishes to all.
Alison
January 29, 2009 at 5:55 am
Hi
Have just found this page and yes, those photos could be me too! Have only today been told about ophiasis even though my hair has been like this for over a year. Will spend some time reading other replys later. Thank you all for telling of your situation on here.
Best wishes to all!
January 31, 2009 at 7:00 pm
Hi All – I last wrote in November 2008 when I started on a medical treatment called DNCB with a doctor at UCLA who specializes in alopecia areata. It is a chemical in the form of an ointment that you put on the part of your body that has hair loss. Dr. Richard Strick has been very successful in treating AA with this method with people with hair loss of less than 4 years. I’ve been using DNCB for a little over 2 months now. My husband first noticed a few small patches of hair coming back last week. Hopefully more areas will start growing hair again. The itchy red scalp is irritating but worth it if my hair eventually comes back. I’m not ready to be a bald woman yet. In the meantime I got a really great wig and no one seems to know it’s a wig. Will keep you posted.
Judy
August 27, 2009 at 3:01 pm
Hi Judy-
Thanks for your post. My story is a lot like yours. I am also seeing Dr. Strick and started using DNCB about 2 months ago. How are you doing? Has his treatment worked for you?
Thx
March 4, 2009 at 4:37 am
I am in tears right now. I have had alopecia for 17 years that started out with quarter size circles. They would grow back and reappear in different areas. But just in the last six months have I developed the ophiasis pattern. (Discovered the diagnosis this morning). I guess I am elated to put a name to it since I started to think that maybe this “growing” condition was a sign of some other dreaded outcome. I had never heard of this before in all my research. I gave up on shots a long time ago. I felt that the problem was just cyclical. But things changed when the areas of alopecia spread. I am not panicing any more.
I do wear wigs or baseball caps because on a bad hair day
(windy) I do feel selfconscious. The wigs can be fun and I am looking at the situation with a sense of humor (at least in public). God bless my husband when I take the wigs off at night.
I now I am rambling. But I am so happy to put a name to this and maybe see light at the end of the tunnel. I might wake up one morning and see growth again. Thank you, thank you, thank you. By the way, I am an otherwise heathy 61 year old and my friends say the wigs make me look much younger. Very flattering!
March 18, 2009 at 8:04 pm
I know you posted over a year ago and i see that there are a lot of other comments, and that you probably won’t read this. but i wanted to say thanks. i’m 21 and i’ve never talked to anyone else with alopecia. i think i have the same type you do. i’ve had some form or another since i was 6.
i wasn’t really expecting to find much when i typed in alopecia but this page really made me smile. the world has felt cold through stares, laughs, and the realization that deep down inside, other people treat you differently despite how mature they project themselves as being. still, i find people and ideas in this world that give me momentary but tremendous happiness. i accept that my life has been and will continue to be quite different from the lives around me due to the innate newness of the concept in relation to the everyday experience of others, but i am beginning to value the uniqueness it has contributed to life.
i am all the more appreciative towards real beauty. i see it in the fleeting glance of people who’s triumphs will go unnoticed by everyone around them. or in the posture of someone who finds happiness in the middle of loss and tragedy. or in your pictures. nothing has envoked such strong feelings of companionship- which isn’t a strong enough word, but i don’t know the word i’m looking for. despite whether you read this, i feel i owe you more than silent appreciation.
thanks for giving me another reason to smile.
March 18, 2009 at 9:11 pm
Hi Scott!
Welcome!
I read your comment, and I am so glad to see you here. You’re right; I haven’t posted in a while, but I do read every comment that people leave here. I am so happy that you found this site. Your words are extremely eloquent. Thank you for sharing. I feel a strong connection to you. You are not alone.
I had to write to you immediately because there is an awesome support group that I recently joined. It’s full of other alopecians who understand *exactly* what you and I are going through.
I highly recommend for you to join. There are men and women there who are very active and very supportive.
It’s called “Alopecia World.” The URL is alopeciaworld.com
I hope to see you there!!
Thank you again for sharing.
March 24, 2009 at 4:51 am
i am just about to do a show on female alopecia aand was very glad to know im not a lone suffer it is a mind blowing event 4 me cbecouse since i was diagnoze there has not been no way of getting support or the right treatment well not in bristol anyway it turned me very inwood i find it hard to leave my house unless it 4 thr radio show and can only manage that in shord spells is ther any advice u can give as to the best treatment and how to cope emotionally please if u can sent an e mail to the show im on today from 1-4 at http://www.ujimaradio.com or 98@ujimaradio.com i would be most gratful becouse i thought untill today i was on my own with this god bless
May 13, 2009 at 12:43 am
i am also one of those who is into this AA category…i know how embarrassing it is…i sometimes feels like why did it just happen to me ,and how can i get it off me…i could do anything to get this off me…but then when i see my fellow people around ,i also feel no-i am not alone here…i feel like as though i am comforted.
thanks guys…
June 5, 2009 at 9:53 am
Hi guys – delighted to find you all as I’d imagined ophiasis was pretty rare!!
Mine actually began about 13 years ago and has been SLOW – I’ve also lost the hair on my legs and arms, and my eyebrows and eyelashes have become very thin. I’ve now lost a band about 2-3″ wide all around the margin of my scalp. Funny thing is, looking at the photos here, then looking at the back of my head in the mirror, I also appear to have a red mark (which I’ve never seen before but which is now starting to show up!).
I have other autoimmune conditions – hashimotos thyroiditis, vitiligo and chronic urticaria. I also have allergies – hayfever, and to house dust. My nails also have the typical ridges.
The funny thing about what’s left of my hair is that at the age of 50 + its still blonde, and people frequently comment on how they wish they didn’t have to get their hair highlighted!
I’m resigned to the fact that I will soon be wearing wigs and bandanas – mostly because I’m coming to the point where I can’t be bothered with the effort of trying to make my hair look good.
Anyway, as I said, great to meet you all, and looking forward to visiting here often.
June 5, 2009 at 10:04 am
Welcome, Nanna!
For me, the ophiasis pattern has progressed slowly, too. I’m not surprised you have other autoimmune issues. It seems we all do. Also, the stork bite mark seems to be common among we ophiasis people.
I can empathize with you about your decision that wigs, scarves, etc are in your future. I came to to that about 5 months ago. I just accepted it. I went to get fitted for a wig, went online to buffwear.com and bought some bandana-type things…
Finally, the most significant and freeing part —
In February, I shaved my head!! Well, what was left of it ; – )
I have never felt so free.
I will post some current photos of my bald pattern soon.
Thanks for stopping by. You seem to have a wonderful attitude!
-HSP Woman
June 7, 2009 at 7:51 am
Hi HSP Woman
I too have now shaved the rest of my hair off. I have been ‘light headed’ since February. What a wonderful experience that was. No more hiding the ‘Manky hair’. I now have a wig and some beautiful scarves. I first posted in October and sent you some pictures.
Hope this finds you well & happy.
Pearl x
June 8, 2009 at 7:23 am
WOW..I have had AA and the oophiasis for the last 8 months. I had a very full head of hair. I am 46 years old. I was divorced in 2006 and remarried last year. I had my head of hair the whole time. I noticed it falling out in late october 08. I was so upset. I thought I was the only one who had this. I have been on all types of drugs. I have had some regrowth, but its not coming in fast enough for me. I have purchased a wig. Its ok, but I miss my hair. I know that sounds weird, but I do not feel like myself. My kids and husband are so very supportive and they could care less that I have no hair. They call my wig “the lid” . Its great that I have a wonderful family. And now I have this web site to see that I am not the only one out there. I wish everyone the best in getting their hair back. I will keep you posted on myself. Thanks again for reading this.
July 24, 2009 at 6:02 pm
I had a baby in September of 2008 and started losing my hair in April…first behind both ears but eventually spreading down the nape of my neck. Everyone I mentioned it to just wrote it off as post partum hair loss. But it kept getting worse and worse. I ran into a friend of mine, a Naturopathic Doctor, and she noticed my hair loss right away and thought I should get my thyroid checked as maybe my dose needed to be adjusted after having my baby (I have Hashimoto’s thyroiditis to begin with). My Endocrinologist adjusted by thyroid dose, but that did not seem to help. I went to a dermatologist and was told that that I did indeed have Alopecia Areata. I didn’t think that was what it was as I was I couldn’t find any photos online that matched my pattern. But alas, I do indeed have the ophiasis pattern. I just found the name of it online today and then stumbled across your blog. I started clobetasol foam, and am supposed to start kenalog injections next month once I’ve stopped breastfeeding. I used to have long, thick hair down the middle of my back. I chopped it to just below my shoulders before I was diagnosed as I was just so tired of picking up hair everywhere around my house. I can still cover up my AA with the hair that I currently have, but I don’t see that lasting for long. It’s just so damn frustrating. In the grand scheme of things it is only hair, but I have tears rolling down my face as I write this. I just don’t feel like me anymore. I guess I get to reinvent myself now. Glad to see that I’m not alone, but wish none of us had to deal with this.
July 28, 2009 at 1:12 pm
Kristy thanks for your post. We all know how you’re feeling. ALL the autoimmune conditions are frustrating, and although hair loss is the least of them in terms of the effect on our physical health, it sure can make you feel depressed at times!
Since my ophiasis started in about 1997 I’ve been up and down. Most of the time I don’t think about it, but then occasionally I mourn the loss of my very thick straight blonde locks. The maddening thing for me is that at the age of 54 my hair has kept its colour! I am just about managing at the moment with a short bob, although my fringe is “see through” and the sides are very thin too. Its just not “my hair” any more. This belongs to a stranger.
I’ve noticed that before I have a major fall out and the band around my head widens, I get little red spots on my scalp. I’ve recently started to use a cortisone scalp lotion as soon as I see any redness in the hope that it may calm things down.
Good luck on your journey. And enjoy your baby. I have a grandaughter who was born September 08 and she’s a little treasure!
July 28, 2009 at 1:16 pm
Kristy,
I went to a support meeting last Saturday and it really did help to know we are not alone. I finally “mowed” by mohawk away. It was very difficult not liberating as I had read from others. Yes, head says only cosmetic, but heart is breaking. I have to admit, do like to look like a diva (with a hair prothesis…better than wig) when I go out and get compliments, but then I come home and reality hits…..look in the mirror and gasp! I keep a baseball cap on or sleep wig when I go to bed until the light goes out and I have been married 39 years. It is me……my husband is great!~
June 7, 2009 at 11:00 am
Wow! We shaved in the same month! I’d love to see you in your pretty scarves! Did you get a wig, too? I’d love to see some photos! How wonderful for you! Isn’t it just liberating?! So empowering! Great to hear from you!
Leave a Reply
Join the Discussion
 | Shazzy on HSPs and Instant Arousal-Stopp… |
| Shazzy on HSPs and Instant Arousal-Stopp… |
 | Silvana on Oh, Lovely Agoraphobia! |
 | Lisa on Update: Four Months Benzo… |
 | J on Oh, Lovely Agoraphobia! |
December 17, 2007 at 9:28 pm
I shave my head.
my back of my head upside down joke photo http://psychsurvivor.wordpress.com/2007/08/22/208/
I do recognize women associate hair and femininity.
To my male point of view, if hair is symmetrical (and clean) it still looks good.
I can find online examples if proof is needed.