Welcome to our third blog post - In today's post I wanted to talk about something that I didn't consider would be a challenge for me once I'd lost my hair, and that's meeting up with friends and family that I haven't seen since losing my hair. I found it easier (and still do) to meet new people that just know me as I look now rather than people that knew me when I still had my bio hair. My appearance had changed and I found myself being worried about their reaction or that they may not recognise me as 'me' anymore - irrational, I know.   

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I've listed some things below that I still do today that help me in these situations. Generally, it's ok but if I'm having a hard day or generally feeling low about my alopecia these tips are really handy. 

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1. Be open about it

A few times prior to meeting with friends or family I have sent them a quick message beforehand to briefly mention that I haven't them since losing my hair, as a reminder and just a heads up I'd be without a wig or head covering so that they wouldn’t be surprised. It sometimes feels a little bit awkward but it does massively reduce my anxiety. I think this can break the ice for them too, as I think that friends and family can be afraid of upsetting us, saying the wrong thing or anything at all - this for me lets them know I'm happy to talk about it but I am still a little self-conscious.

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2. Social media as a tool

I have been really open about my alopecia on my social media accounts since day 1, mainly because I wanted some advice from anyone going through the same thing but also to make it easier for me. I was finding it hard to explain to different people what was going on, it was upsetting to talk about each time. I also uploaded photos of me at varying stages of my hair loss and when I got my first wig, it was reassuring knowing that others will recognise me as I am now and already be aware. Even if you are uncomfortable doing this, simply liking AlopeicaUK, other hair loss pages or re-posting hair loss content can subtly give people on your socials an explanation for your hair loss thus reducing the need to explain or give any concerns. 

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3. Put yourself first

Remember that it's ok to politely decline to meetups with people or social gatherings if you’re not comfortable yet. I have more than once put myself in social situations when I wasn't ready both with and without a wig and it ended up spoiling not just my night but some of my friends too. Friends and family are generally very understanding but it can be difficult to portray our feelings surrounding our hair loss, so remember, it’s ok to take a night at home to yourself instead of for some self-care and it's ok to re-arrange, it’s your journey and your feelings are valid at any stage of hair loss.

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If you have any other tips or experiences with meeting up with friends and family you haven't seen since losing your hair I'd love to know. I'm unsure if this is a common concern but it certainly is for me. Head over to my Instagram page or youtube & leave me a comment there - it would be great to hear some more.

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Jess x