Earlier in 2025, I was diagnosed with alopecia after noticing hair loss on my face. At the time, it felt manageable, something I could quietly get on with.

Towards the end of the year however, it progressed to my scalp. Since then, it’s been unpredictable. Patches forming, getting steadily bigger and combining, and there’s been some discomfort along the way.

Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition. In simple terms, the immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles, interrupting hair growth. There isn’t currently a cure, and progression is different for everyone.

People often assume alopecia is a condition caused by stress. Stress can act as a trigger but Alopecia Areata is part of a wider Autoimmune picture, and for many people there’s an underlying predisposition involved that makes you more susceptible; I unfortunately sit within this category.

I’ve reached the point where the thinning and sensitivity mean it’s time to shave my head. Partly for comfort, partly to take back a bit of control from something that doesn’t always feel controllable.

Rather than quietly making that change and navigating the inevitable “What happened?” conversations, I wanted to use the moment positively to raise awareness of alopecia and to support Alopecia UK.

Alopecia UK provides trusted information, community, research funding and importantly reassurance that you’re not facing this alone. They’ve been a valuable source of perspective and support for me, and for many others living with the condition.

If you’d like to support the cause, I’m raising money for Alopecia UK alongside shaving my head. Any donation, however small, helps fund research and support services for people affected by hair loss.

Thank you for reading, and for any support you’d like to give.