Trichotillomania

Trichotillomania is an impulse control disorder characterised by compulsive hair pulling or plucking. For photos of trichotillomania, see here.

In children, trichotillomania is usually a benign habit that resolves with age, but sometimes it is a response to stress at home or school. Parental help to curb this habit is often adequate, but referral to a child psychologist or psychiatrist may be indicated. See also Clinical features that differentiate between alopecia areata, tinea capitis and trichotillomania for features to differentiate trichotillomania from other hair loss disorders in children.

In contrast, trichotillomania in adults is usually associated with a psychological disorder (eg anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder)—refer to a psychologist or psychiatrist.

Figure 1. Trichotillomania

Note: Photo sourced with permission from Dr Leona Yip.

Note: Photo sourced with permission from Dr Leona Yip.

Note: Photo sourced with permission from Dr Leona Yip.