Wigs and hairpieces: evaluating dermatologic issues.

Hair is an important feature of self-image, and hair loss can have a devastating impact on a person's pychological well-being. In recent years, there has been an explosion of research in the understanding of various hair disorders, but unfortunately there has not been a major breakthrough and not much has changed in terms of therapeutic options available to patients with extensive hair loss. As professionals, we need to understand the social significance of hair in relation to a person's outward presentation and social interactions. We must minimize the distress alopecia can cause by providing up-to-date information to enable them to prepare for and minimize the psychological consequences of hair loss.