Trichotillomania is a mental health disorder where a person compulsively pulls out or breaks their own hair. It is often a way of dealing with negative or uncomfortable feelings such as stress, anxiety, tension, boredom, loneliness, fatigue, or frustration. People with trichotillomania often find that pulling out hair feels satisfying and provides a measure of relief, which is why they continue to pull their hair to maintain these positive feelings. Trichotillomania is a long-term (chronic) disorder that can vary in severity over time. Without treatment, symptoms can come and go for weeks, months, or years at a time.

Trichotillomania can have a major negative impact on a persons life. Complications may include emotional distress, low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, and alcohol or street drug use because of their condition. People with trichotillomania may shy away from social situations and friendships and even turn down job offers because theyre embarrassed about pulling. Constant tugging can leave scars on the scalp and affect hair growth long-term.

There are no specific ingredients or materials associated with trichotillomania. The condition is diagnosed based on its symptoms, and there is no specific test for it. Many types of therapy can support people with trichotillomania and even help them stop hair pulling completely. There are no FDA-approved medicines for trichotillomania, but some drugs may control symptoms in some people, such as antidepressants, atypical antipsychotics, and N-acetyl-cysteine, an amino acid supplement.