A definition of Alopecia is the progressive loss of hair that is the result of an autoimmune disorder causing one’s immune system to attack the hair follicle during the hair growth phase. Alopecia comes in a variety of patterns with a variety of causes. The most common form is male & female pattern baldness or androgenetic alopecia that affects the top of the scalp.

After visiting my dermatologists, I received a diagnosis of ALOPECIA and ANDROGENIC. It is a form of hair loss related to hormones called androgens; a protein found in women’s ovaries, adrenal glands, and fat cells. In a woman’s body, one of the primary purposes of androgens is to convert protein into female hormones called estrogens. Also, androgenic hair loss can progress due to anxiety and stress.

Alopecia can occur if you aren’t healthy. Having a poor nutritional diet also plays a key role in hair suffering. For healthy hair, protein ranks as the most important nutrient. Protein’s primary function is to process or break down all the food you eat, as well as to repair and rebuild muscle tissue. Reducing inflammation is important also. Inflammation is part of the body’s immune response; without it, we can’t heal. When it is out of control, it can damage the body. Plus, it is the leading cause of obesity, heart disease, and cancer. Ways to control inflammation is: 1) Not smoking, 2) Avoiding inflammatory foods such as sugar, wheat, and dairy products, 3) Eating anti-inflammatory vegetables.

We always hear the same story over & over, but I wanted to share my journey from a different perspective. I have been natural for nine years.

I am a wife, mother of two daughters, and grandmother of four beautiful grandchildren who mean the world to me. Going through the menopause, and losing my hair has been a journey for not just me.

My family has been on this journey with me. I started a new blog to share my story. For me, living with Alopecia has made hair styling a challenge. My solution included wigs, head covers, and makeup to achieve a look that allowed me to be accepted by family, friends, coworkers, and the public.

That phase lasted for two months, NOW – “I EMBRACE MY HAIR LOSS WITHOUT SHAME” !!! I NO LONGER WEAR WIGS – no matter how many weird looks I get. I WEAR head covers for fashion purposes NOT to HIDE my HAIR LOSS.

“Life Is Only What You Make It”

Vernessie M. Joseph-Burbank