Talking Hair Loss with Katie Dear

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In this episode of It’s Not Just Hair, Katie Dear draws on her years of experience working with people experiencing hair loss and explores one of the things she notices most often: the impact hair loss can have on the way we see ourselves.

Whether hair loss happens suddenly or gradually, through illness, treatment, alopecia, hormonal changes or other causes, the experience can affect far more than our appearance. It can change confidence, identity and the way we feel about being seen by other people.

Katie also talks about something she believes is really important when someone is considering a wig, topper or hairpiece: understanding what is actually happening with the hair first.

Sometimes the solution someone thinks they need isn't necessarily the solution that will be right for their hair. If hair is unstable or actively thinning, adding tension or repeatedly clipping something into vulnerable areas may not be appropriate. Understanding the type and progression of the hair loss — and getting a diagnosis where possible — can help you make a more informed decision about what to do next.

Sometimes you may come in thinking you need a wig and discover that a topper could be the right option. And sometimes the opposite is true.

For Katie, it's about looking at the whole person, the condition of the hair and the individual's circumstances before deciding how to move forward.

This is a conversation about hair loss, but ultimately it's about identity, confidence, support and making decisions that take everything into consideration.

It’s Not Just Hair — a series from Katie Dear exploring the human side of hair loss.

If this episode resonates with you, please share it with someone who might find it helpful.

If you need support with an Alopecia condition contact - https://www.alopecia.org.uk/

If you need support if you are going through treatment there are many amazing charities such as Macmillen and Maggies Charity.

For wigs, products, help and Advice -  https://katiedear.co.uk/

If you have a story that you think needs to be told or you are a client that I have seen in the past purchasing wigs and you feel safe in telling your journey of hair loss, do get in touch.   Whether your hair loss  is from going through treatment or an Alopecia condition, do get in touch.    Email me at  https://katiedear.co.uk/contact/

Lets try and get people out of the silence and get them talking about their hair loss condition.

For wigs, products  with help and Advice -  https://katiedear.co.uk/

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In this episode of Talking Hair Loss, Katie is joined by florist and business owner Sarah Horne to hear the deeply personal story behind her experience of breast cancer, chemotherapy and hair loss.

Sarah shares how her mum’s own experience with breast cancer shaped the way she responded to her diagnosis, from recognising a tiny lump herself to undergoing chemotherapy, surgery and radiotherapy.

She talks honestly about the moment her hair began to fall out — much sooner and more dramatically than she had expected — and the emotional impact of watching her hair disappear. Sarah explains why she chose to wear a wig, how a synthetic wig gave her back a sense of herself, and how taking control of the situation helped her cope.

But this conversation is about much more than hair. Sarah talks about staying positive through treatment, continuing to look after her business and team, accepting help from unexpected people, dealing with the physical side effects of chemotherapy and finding practical ways to get through the difficult days.

It's an honest, uplifting and at times funny conversation about hair loss, resilience, control, support and the journey towards finding yourself again after treatment.

Connect with Talking Hair Loss with Katie Dear:

YouTube: @TalkingHairLossPod
Instagram: @TalkingHairLossPod

Connect with Katie Dear:

Instagram: @katiedearltd
TikTok: @katiedearltd
LinkedIn: Katie Dear

If you need support with an Alopecia condition contact - https://www.alopecia.org.uk/

If you need support if you are going through treatment there are many amazing charities such as Macmillen and Maggies Charity.

For wigs, products, help and Advice -  https://katiedear.co.uk/

If you have a story that you think needs to be told or you are a client that I have seen in the past purchasing wigs and you feel safe in telling your journey of hair loss, do get in touch.   Whether your hair loss  is from going through treatment or an Alopecia condition, do get in touch.    Email me at  https://katiedear.co.uk/contact/

Lets try and get people out of the silence and get them talking about their hair loss condition.

For wigs, products  with help and Advice -  https://katiedear.co.uk/

FOLLOW ME ON - 
IG: https://www.instagram.com/wigsatkatiedearltd/
LI:https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiedearltd/ 
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FB : https://www.katiedearhairlossandwigconsultancy

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Hair loss is never just about hair.
In the first episode of the 'It’s Not Just Hair' podcast series, Talking Hair Loss, Katie Dear shares what more than 26 years of working with hair, wigs and people experiencing hair loss have taught her, that behind every diagnosis, every thinning area and every wig or hairpiece is a person trying to navigate a change in how they see themselves.
Katie talks about the connection between hair loss, confidence and identity, and why the emotional impact can be so much bigger than people realise. She explores the questions that can sit underneath hair loss — Who am I now? Will people notice? Will I still feel like myself?
Drawing on her experience working with clients, as well as her own experience of chronic telogen effluvium, Katie explains why she believes people need to be listened to and supported as a whole person, rather than simply being told that “it’s only hair.”
This episode is an introduction to the conversations that will follow throughout the series — honest discussions about identity, confidence, relationships, appearance and the very different ways people experience hair loss.
Because whether hair loss is sudden or gradual, temporary or ongoing, caused by a medical condition, treatment, stress, hormonal changes or something else entirely, there is always a person behind it.
And sometimes, simply knowing you're not alone can make a difference.
In this episode:
Why hair loss can affect identity and confidence


The emotional impact of changing appearance


Why everyone's hair-loss experience is different


Katie's own experience with chronic telogen effluvium


The importance of listening and feeling understood


Why a wig or hairpiece can be part of the solution, but isn't the whole story


What you can expect from Talking Hair Loss


Talking Hair Loss with Katie Dear
A podcast about hair loss, the people living through it, and the stories we don't always feel able to talk about.
If you know someone experiencing hair loss who might find this conversation helpful, please share the episode with them.
This podcast shares personal experiences and professional observations and is not a substitute for medical advice. If you are experiencing hair loss, speak to an appropriate healthcare or hair-loss specialist for individual advice.

If you need support with an Alopecia condition contact - https://www.alopecia.org.uk/

If you need support if you are going through treatment there are many amazing charities such as Macmillen and Maggies Charity.

For wigs, products, help and Advice -  https://katiedear.co.uk/

If you have a story that you think needs to be told or you are a client that I have seen in the past purchasing wigs and you feel safe in telling your journey of hair loss, do get in touch.   Whether your hair loss  is from going through treatment or an Alopecia condition, do get in touch.    Email me at  https://katiedear.co.uk/contact/

Lets try and get people out of the silence and get them talking about their hair loss condition.

For wigs, products  with help and Advice -  https://katiedear.co.uk/

FOLLOW ME ON - 
IG: https://www.instagram.com/wigsatkatiedearltd/
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FB : https://www.katiedearhairlossandwigconsultancy

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This week, I’m joined by the wonderful Lisa, who shares her very honest experience of going through chemotherapy treatment and hair loss — while she is still in the middle of her treatment journey.

Lisa has a fascinating approach to health, treatment and mindset. We talk about discovering her diagnosis, preparing for hair loss, cold capping, finding the right wig, and how she has continued to work, exercise, travel and spend time with family and friends throughout her treatment.

What really struck me about Lisa is the way she has approached everything as a team — almost stepping outside of the situation and looking at herself as part of the team helping her body through it. Her practical and positive mindset gives a really interesting perspective on navigating treatment and hair loss.

Lisa also shares some wonderful advice for anyone who is about to start treatment and has been told they may experience hair loss.

Thank you, Lisa, for being so open and for sharing your story while you're still going through this journey. 

As Breast Cancer Awareness Month is coming up around the corner in October, I felt this was such an important conversation to share — giving an insight into one person’s experience of going through treatment and experiencing hair loss.

A little note: This episode is simply a conversation between two people sharing our own personal experiences, thoughts and opinions. We are not medical professionals, and nothing discussed should be taken as medical advice. Everyone's situation and treatment is different, so please always speak to your own healthcare team for advice relating to you.

If you find this episode helpful, please feel free to share it with someone who might benefit from hearing Lisa's story.

Listen to Talking Hair Loss with Katie Dear wherever you get your podcasts.

If you need support with an Alopecia condition contact - https://www.alopecia.org.uk/

If you need support if you are going through treatment there are many amazing charities such as Macmillen and Maggies Charity.

For wigs, products, help and Advice -  https://katiedear.co.uk/

If you have a story that you think needs to be told or you are a client that I have seen in the past purchasing wigs and you feel safe in telling your journey of hair loss, do get in touch.   Whether your hair loss  is from going through treatment or an Alopecia condition, do get in touch.    Email me at  https://katiedear.co.uk/contact/

Lets try and get people out of the silence and get them talking about their hair loss condition.

For wigs, products  with help and Advice -  https://katiedear.co.uk/

FOLLOW ME ON - 
IG: https://www.instagram.com/wigsatkatiedearltd/
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This episode is being shared during Alopecia Awareness Month — a time to raise awareness, start conversations and shine a light on the real-life experiences of people living with hair loss.

In this episode, I’m joined by Ann, who has lived with alopecia areata for decades.

Ann first noticed a small patch of hair loss in her twenties. From there, her journey took her through years of hair growing back and falling out again, wearing wigs and hairpieces, losing her eyebrows and eyelashes, and trying to navigate the support and treatment available to her.

Along the way, Ann experienced divorce, motherhood, grief, financial pressures and periods of immense stress — all while learning to live with a condition that could change without warning.

But this is ultimately a story about resilience.

After years of feeling that she had to manage her alopecia largely on her own, Anne discovered the power of community through local support groups and Alopecia UK. Connecting with others who truly understood what she was going through became a turning point.

Today, Ann is much more open about her hair loss and has reached a place where she can confidently say:

“This is me, take me as I am.”

A heartfelt conversation about alopecia, identity, confidence, resilience, relationships and the importance of knowing that you are not alone.

If you’re living with alopecia, supporting someone with hair loss, or simply want to understand more about the condition, Ann’s story is a powerful reminder that there is support and community out there.

If you need support with an Alopecia condition contact - https://www.alopecia.org.uk/

If you need support if you are going through treatment there are many amazing charities such as Macmillen and Maggies Charity.

For wigs, products, help and Advice -  https://katiedear.co.uk/

If you have a story that you think needs to be told or you are a client that I have seen in the past purchasing wigs and you feel safe in telling your journey of hair loss, do get in touch.   Whether your hair loss  is from going through treatment or an Alopecia condition, do get in touch.    Email me at  https://katiedear.co.uk/contact/

Lets try and get people out of the silence and get them talking about their hair loss condition.

For wigs, products  with help and Advice -  https://katiedear.co.uk/

FOLLOW ME ON - 
IG: https://www.instagram.com/wigsatkatiedearltd/
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Katie continues her conversation with trichologist Eva Proudman in part two of their discussion, recorded following an Instagram Live where Eva answered some really common questions. 

This episode follows up on some of those questions, covering everything from how often you really need to wash your hair and why an oily scalp shouldn't be ignored, to choosing the right shampoo and what “sulfate-free” actually means.

Katie and Eva also discuss scalp health, seborrheic dermatitis, hormonal changes, menopause, PCOS, hair thinning and hair loss, as well as the role of antioxidants and oxidative stress in the hair follicle.

Eva explains why washing your hair regularly isn't necessarily damaging, why treating the scalp is so important, and what to look for when choosing shampoo and conditioner.

They also talk about Eva's Juniper Scalp Therapy Shampoo and the TricoTain Hair Retaining Shampoo and Conditioner, and where listeners can find them.

If you're trying to understand an oily scalp, hair thinning, hair loss or simply what products are actually worth using, this episode is packed with practical advice.

This is part two of Katie's conversation with Eva Proudman, trichologist.

If you need support with an Alopecia condition contact - https://www.alopecia.org.uk/

If you need support if you are going through treatment there are many amazing charities such as Macmillen and Maggies Charity.

For wigs, products, help and Advice -  https://katiedear.co.uk/

If you have a story that you think needs to be told or you are a client that I have seen in the past purchasing wigs and you feel safe in telling your journey of hair loss, do get in touch.   Whether your hair loss  is from going through treatment or an Alopecia condition, do get in touch.    Email me at  https://katiedear.co.uk/contact/

Lets try and get people out of the silence and get them talking about their hair loss condition.

For wigs, products  with help and Advice -  https://katiedear.co.uk/

FOLLOW ME ON - 
IG: https://www.instagram.com/wigsatkatiedearltd/
LI:https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiedearltd/ 
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FB : https://www.katiedearhairlossandwigconsultancy

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Hair loss can be frightening, confusing and incredibly emotional — but understanding what's happening is the first step.

September is Alopecia Awareness Month, making this the perfect time to share this conversation again and help raise awareness and understanding around hair loss and alopecia.

In this episode of Talking Hair Loss, I’m joined by clinical trichologist Eva Proudman for a conversation about the basics of hair loss and thinning.

This interview was originally recorded in September 2024 during Alopecia Awareness Month on Instagram, and there was so much valuable information in our conversation that I wanted to bring it to the podcast and YouTube.

Eva talks about:

• What a clinical trichologist actually does
• What the word alopecia really means
• Different types of hair loss and thinning
• Male and female pattern hair loss
• Telogen effluvium and excessive shedding
• Autoimmune and scarring Alopecias
• Why early diagnosis can make such a difference
• The emotional impact of hair loss
• Blood tests and what they can tell us
• Iron, ferritin, vitamin D, B12 and thyroid levels
• The importance of nutrition and protein
• Why randomly taking supplements isn't always the answer
• And why there is often more that can be done than people realise

If you're experiencing hair loss yourself, or supporting someone who is, I hope this conversation gives you a little more understanding — and, most importantly, a little more hope.

This is Part 1 of 2.

Part 2 will be coming soon, where Eva answers some of the popular questions people ask about hair, scalp health and hair loss.

If you need support with an Alopecia condition contact - https://www.alopecia.org.uk/

If you need support if you are going through treatment there are many amazing charities such as Macmillen and Maggies Charity.

For wigs, products, help and Advice -  https://katiedear.co.uk/

If you have a story that you think needs to be told or you are a client that I have seen in the past purchasing wigs and you feel safe in telling your journey of hair loss, do get in touch.   Whether your hair loss  is from going through treatment or an Alopecia condition, do get in touch.    Email me at  https://katiedear.co.uk/contact/

Lets try and get people out of the silence and get them talking about their hair loss condition.

For wigs, products  with help and Advice -  https://katiedear.co.uk/

FOLLOW ME ON - 
IG: https://www.instagram.com/wigsatkatiedearltd/
LI:https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiedearltd/ 
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FB : https://www.katiedearhairlossandwigconsultancy

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What is it really like to lose your hair as a man — particularly when the hair loss isn't something you expected?

In this episode of Talking Hair Loss with Katie Dear, Katie sits down with Dan Newman, founder of Baldilocks, for an incredibly honest conversation about living with alopecia, trauma, confidence, identity and mental health.

Dan shares his experience of alopecia from childhood through to adulthood, including the impact that sudden and visible hair loss had on his confidence and sense of self. He talks about feeling isolated and misunderstood, a particularly difficult experience with his GP, and the point in his twenties when he finally decided to shave his head and begin accepting the things he couldn't control.

Katie and Dan also explore the idea that hair loss is somehow “easier” for men, why that isn't true for everyone, and the importance of allowing people to experience hair loss in their own way.

Dan explains how one encounter in a barber shop eventually became the inspiration for Baldilocks — a social enterprise focused on creating inclusive, welcoming spaces and wellness experiences for people living with hair loss.

They discuss:

• The emotional and psychological impact of alopecia
• Why men need more space to talk about hair loss
• Trauma, confidence and identity
• The importance of being seen rather than looked at
• How friends and family can support someone experiencing hair loss
• Why humour became such an important part of Dan's journey
• The inspiration and mission behind Baldilocks
• Creating salons, barber shops and other spaces where people with hair loss feel welcome
• Dan's advice to anyone currently struggling with their hair loss
• The one thing Dan would tell his younger self

And, of course, there's a quick-fire round covering resilience, confidence and what makes Dan laugh on difficult days!

“A few bad experiences does not mean a bad life.”

If you're experiencing alopecia or hair loss — or supporting someone who is — we hope this conversation reminds you that you aren't alone.

Follow Dan / Baldilocks:
Instagram: @Baldilocks.me
Website: Baldilocks.me

About Talking Hair Loss with Katie Dear:
Katie talks to people with lived experience of hair loss, alongside professionals and people working within the hair-loss community, to open up honest conversations about the emotional, practical and personal side of losing your hair.

#Alopecia #HairLoss #AlopeciaAreata #MensMentalHealth #HairLossAwareness #Baldilocks #TalkingHairLoss #MentalHealth #SelfAcceptance #HairLossSupport

If you need support with an Alopecia condition contact - https://www.alopecia.org.uk/

If you need support if you are going through treatment there are many amazing charities such as Macmillen and Maggies Charity.

For wigs, products, help and Advice -  https://katiedear.co.uk/

If you have a story that you think needs to be told or you are a client that I have seen in the past purchasing wigs and you feel safe in telling your journey of hair loss, do get in touch.   Whether your hair loss  is from going through treatment or an Alopecia condition, do get in touch.    Email me at  https://katiedear.co.uk/contact/

Lets try and get people out of the silence and get them talking about their hair loss condition.

For wigs, products  with help and Advice -  https://katiedear.co.uk/

FOLLOW ME ON - 
IG: https://www.instagram.com/wigsatkatiedearltd/
LI:https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiedearltd/ 
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FB : https://www.katiedearhairlossandwigconsultancy

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In this episode of Talking Hair Loss, I’m joined by Shirley Ledley to talk openly about her experience of permanent chemotherapy-induced hair loss and the journey that followed.

It is important to know that this is rare and happened because of one type of chemotherapy and is one persons story.

After being treated for breast cancer in 2005, Shirley discovered that her hair wasn’t growing back as expected following chemotherapy. What began as a devastating personal experience led her on a 20-year journey of raising awareness, supporting other women and campaigning for people to be properly informed about the potential risk of permanent hair loss.

We talk about the emotional impact of losing your hair, informed consent, chemotherapy-induced alopecia, scalp cooling, finding the right wig and what it can mean to finally feel like yourself again.

Shirley also shares how discovering a high-quality, custom-made human hair wig has changed the way she feels about herself and helped her move forward into a new chapter.

This is an honest and incredibly powerful conversation about hair loss, identity, confidence and finding your way forward after treatment.

 Find Shirley on Instagram: @shirley.with.alopecia Shirley’s books: Naked in the Wind: Chemo, Hair Loss and Deceit and A Hair’s Whisper: From Cancer to the Courtroom

If you or someone you know has experienced permanent hair loss following chemotherapy, I hope Shirley’s story helps you feel informed, understood and a little less alone.

If you need support with an Alopecia condition contact - https://www.alopecia.org.uk/

If you need support if you are going through treatment there are many amazing charities such as Macmillen and Maggies Charity.

For wigs, products, help and Advice -  https://katiedear.co.uk/

If you have a story that you think needs to be told or you are a client that I have seen in the past purchasing wigs and you feel safe in telling your journey of hair loss, do get in touch.   Whether your hair loss  is from going through treatment or an Alopecia condition, do get in touch.    Email me at  https://katiedear.co.uk/contact/

Lets try and get people out of the silence and get them talking about their hair loss condition.

For wigs, products  with help and Advice -  https://katiedear.co.uk/

FOLLOW ME ON - 
IG: https://www.instagram.com/wigsatkatiedearltd/
LI:https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiedearltd/ 
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FB : https://www.katiedearhairlossandwigconsultancy

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Hair loss can affect confidence at any stage of life, but there are more solutions available than many people realise.

In this episode of Talking Hair loss, Katie speaks with Carly Flinn from Rumours Hair & Beauty Salon about her own experience with traction alopecia and how it inspired her to specialise in hair extensions and mesh integration.

They explore who mesh integration is suitable for, how it compares with extensions, wigs and toppers, the importance of expert consultations and aftercare, and why restoring confidence is at the heart of every transformation.

An honest and informative conversation for anyone navigating hair loss or looking to understand the options available.

Find out more on Carly Flinn on her Instagram @hairby_carlyflinn

If you need support with an Alopecia condition contact - https://www.alopecia.org.uk/

If you need support if you are going through treatment there are many amazing charities such as Macmillen and Maggies Charity.

For wigs, products, help and Advice -  https://katiedear.co.uk/

If you have a story that you think needs to be told or you are a client that I have seen in the past purchasing wigs and you feel safe in telling your journey of hair loss, do get in touch.   Whether your hair loss  is from going through treatment or an Alopecia condition, do get in touch.    Email me at  https://katiedear.co.uk/contact/

Lets try and get people out of the silence and get them talking about their hair loss condition.

For wigs, products  with help and Advice -  https://katiedear.co.uk/

FOLLOW ME ON - 
IG: https://www.instagram.com/wigsatkatiedearltd/
LI:https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiedearltd/ 
TkTk: https://www.tiktok.com/@katiedearltd
FB : https://www.katiedearhairlossandwigconsultancy