Towards a research emphasis on (un)hairiness and health

Wilkinson, Catherine and Wilkinson, Samantha ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1564-5472 (2019) Towards a research emphasis on (un)hairiness and health. Andrognyny, 3 (2). pp. 27-31.

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Abstract

In this short paper we argue for an advancement of qualitative research in health to focus on the absence of hair. Hair loss is related to an abundance of health conditions. For instance, hair can be lost through alopecia or by cancer patients through chemotherapy treatment. Further, hair thinning can be attributed to thyroid disease and other autoimmune conditions. Given the prevalence of hair loss for both men and women with a diverse range of health conditions, exploring the social and emotional, including identity-based, experiences of living with the absence of hair is an important area for researchers to focus their attention. In this paper we argue the significant link between hair and identity, but note a relative absence of qualitative research considering the identity-based lived experiences of those without hair.