Losing hair does not result in death, but it can be a significant turning point in a person's life. For many, it is more than just a physical change—it can feel like losing a part of themselves. "People go through a period of mourning," explains Angela Christiano from Cornell University. "They mourn their appearance [...] and many mourn their identity." Hair loss is a common experience, with the American Hair Loss Association reporting that two-thirds of American men will experience noticeable thinning or loss before 35, and 85% by 50. Women also experience hair loss, with around 20% of those affected in France being female. Despite how widespread hair loss is, it is not as well understood, especially when it comes to women. Most research has focused on men, leaving a gap in knowledge about female baldness. Ancient Greek philosophers and physicians observed that eunuchs did not become bald, suggesting a link between male sexual development and hair loss. Today, scientists know that male pattern baldness, the most common cause of hair loss in men, is linked to androgens, the male sex hormones. This understanding came from studies of men castrated under the influence of the eugenics movement in the early 20th century. Scientists believe that androgenetic alopecia, the medical term for male pattern baldness, is related to a hormone called dihydrotestosterone, or DHT. This hormone, which the body converts from testosterone, causes hair follicles on the scalp to shrink and reduce their growth phase. However, follicles at the back and sides of the head are less affected, leading to the typical pattern of hair loss at the top of the head. Androgens, on the other hand, generally make hair thicker and longer, which is why men develop more visible body hair after puberty. In both men and women, androgenetic alopecia causes the loss of terminal hair on the scalp. However, in women, hair tends to thin more diffusely across the entire head, often starting at the hairline. Female baldness is less studied, with most clinical research focusing on men, particularly white men. This bias is linked to historical pseudosciences like phrenology. Although male and female baldness share similar characteristics, the role of androgens in female baldness is still unclear. For those affected by hair loss, there are medical and surgical options. Medications like minoxidil and finasteride can help slow baldness, though they do not regrow hair. Hair transplants, such as follicular unit transplantation and extraction, are also available, but they are most effective for male baldness. These procedures involve moving hair follicles from one part of the head to another. However, they are not always the best solution, and a proper diagnosis from a dermatologist is the first step. Not everyone chooses to treat their baldness, and insurance rarely covers the cost. While some may question whether baldness is a "disease," many people learn to accept or even embrace their new look. As Angela Christiano notes, "Many people come to terms with their baldness, or even learn to love their new appearance."