[Amanda_1981]

Wasn't sure where to post this, as it pertains to my ocd (trichotillomania) but also is about getting my hair cut so thought I'd post it here.

In a nutshell, I'm getting my hair cut and dyed on Wednesday but I have no idea what to say to the hair dresser about why my hair is shorter and all different lengths on the top (part of my trichotillomania is that I pull out my hair, so I always have to gel the front part down or else it will stick up).. I was thinking of just saying that I had to cut the top part because I had chewing gum stuck in it.. do you think they'll buy it though? Or will they be able to tell just by looking at it if someone pulls out their hair? I've been wanting to get my hair cut for a long time now but have been too embarrassed to go.. I'm hoping the bubble gum story will sound legit and hopefully they won't ask too many questions

I'm too embarrassed to tell them about my trichotillomania.. I just hope the chewing gum stuck in hair story sounds believable.. What do you guys think?

[lynn P.]

We own a hair salon and spa. I think if you don't mind, you should just tell the truth. If you're not comfortable, then use the chewing gum story. Hairdressers hear all kinds of things ranging from boring to the extreme. They're like doctors, nothing much shocks then lol. Good luck Amanda

[Amanda_1981]

Thanks lynn

Maybe I'll ask them if they have heard of trichotillomania, and if not i'll just say something like, when I get nervous I pull out my hair or something like that. Hopefully it won't sound too strange to them..

[venusss]

Do you have to tell anything at all? if she does not ask, don't say anything... It's none of her business anyways.

I would be more creative. "I was sleeping on the floor and the dog ran me over with the vacuum cleaner."

[ECHOES]

You don't have to offer any explanation at all. You don't owe anyone an explanation
Just say "Yeah, it's a mess, huh?! lol"

[lynn P.]

I've thought about your question a little more. If he/she asks in a concerned way - because they're taught in school to look for symptoms in relation to a person's health - bald spots etc could indicate a health problem. So if the hairdresser expresses concern, you can either tell the truth or say "yeah I've been losing some hair and I should ask my doctor'. It's not like they'll know right away you're the one who's pulling it. There are other reasons for hair breakage and bald spots. Don't worry about them judging you Amanda.

[Amanda_1981]

Thanks everyone!
I'm headed out now to get it cut and dyed. I'll post a pic when I get back. I've decided to just be blunt and say 'yeah it's shorter in the front' and if they ask any further questions, I'll just say that I pull it out sometimes when I'm nervous and won't go into anymore detail. Hopefully they won't ask too many questions!

Wish me luck!

[lynn P.]

Good luck Amanda and I hope it turns out great.

[Hippie]

Can't wait to see your picture Amanda!