Hair Loss
Trichotillomania.
Trichotillomania is a body-focused repetitive behavior in which a person feels a recurring urge to pull out their own hair. It is more common than many people realize, and it is not a matter of willpower.
Educational information, not a diagnosis. Updated October 2026.
Understanding it
About trichotillomania
Pulling may happen during stress or boredom, or sometimes without full awareness — while reading, studying or watching television. It most often affects the scalp, eyebrows or eyelashes and can leave irregular patches of thinning, with hairs of different lengths.
It often begins in late childhood or adolescence and can continue into adulthood. With the right support, many people learn to reduce pulling significantly.
Common causes
- Its exact cause is not fully understood
- Stress, anxiety or boredom can increase urges
- It may run in families
- It sometimes occurs alongside anxiety or other conditions
Signs and symptoms
What you may notice.
- Irregular patches of thinning, often on one side or the crown
- Broken hairs of different lengths
- Pulling that increases during stress or concentration
- Thinning eyebrows or eyelashes
Managing it
Approaches that may help.
Behavioral therapy
Care is usually led by mental health professionals, often through approaches such as habit reversal training and cognitive behavioral therapy.
Awareness and barriers
Noticing triggers, keeping hands busy and creating physical barriers can help reduce pulling.
Support
Support groups and organizations for body-focused repetitive behaviors can make a real difference.
Discreet coverage
A custom cranial prosthesis can cover affected areas and, for some people, reduce access to the hair while they work on the behavior.
When to see a physician
A physician or mental health professional can help with the urge to pull. We are glad to work alongside them.
How CRLAB may help
Understand first. Then choose your care.
Recommended first step
CNC® Custom Cranial Prosthesis
Hair restoration, made entirely for you.
Complimentary CNC® ConsultationA confidential, one-on-one conversation with a CNC® specialist.
Learn moreTricoTest® Hair & Scalp Analysis
A private, guided appointment with a certified hair and scalp specialist.
TricoTest® $140Fully credited toward any Personalized Trichology Treatment Program.
Learn moreYour path at CRLAB
Private consultation
A one-on-one conversation in our discreet studio about your history and goals — without pressure.
Professional analysis
TricoTest® microcamera imaging and a hands-on assessment of your scalp and hair.
Personal guidance
A clear plan that may combine in-clinic care, home care or CNC® — and continued support.
Frequently asked questions
Your questions, answered.
We do not diagnose medical conditions; when medical care is involved, we collaborate with your physician.
Is trichotillomania common?
Yes. It is a recognised condition that affects many people, and support is available.
Can a CNC® help?
CNC® may be considered for hair loss related to trichotillomania. It can cover affected areas and, for some clients, reduce access to the hair while they work on the behavior with their care team.
Will my hair grow back?
When pulling stops, hair often regrows, although long-term pulling can damage some follicles. Your specialist can assess your scalp.
Is my consultation private?
Yes. Every consultation is private, one-to-one and without judgment.
Still have a question?
Call us, or book a private consultation and ask in person.
Your next step
Begin with a private consultation.
A confidential, one-on-one conversation with a CNC® specialist — no obligation.
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By appointment only - Private & no obligation
- Consultations take place one-to-one, in a private room.