Trichotillomania

Compulsive hair pulling, also known as trichotillomania, is a disorder in which the person feels a recurring urge to pull out their hair, which causes visible hair loss and distress.

Common features: It usually includes growing tension before pulling the hair and relief or satisfaction afterward; it can affect the scalp, eyebrows, eyelashes, or other areas.

When to see a doctor? It is advisable to seek support when the behavior is hard to control, leaves bald patches, or causes embarrassment, isolation, or emotional distress.

Which specialist treats it? The psychiatrist and the psychologist are the professionals who address this type of behavior, and there is specific care for children and adolescents. If this happens to you or someone close to you, talking about it with one of them is a good first step.