Hair Loss Tops List Of Americas Biggest Aging Fears, Survey Finds

For many Americans, the greatest fear of aging isnt wrinkles or weight gain — its losing their hair.

A new survey of 2,000 adults revealed that wrinkles and hair loss tied as the top fears of aging, with 39% of respondents citing each. Among Gen Z, hair loss ranked even higher, with nearly half (47%) listing it as their biggest concern, surpassing both wrinkles and weight gain.

The survey, conducted by Talker Research on behalf of Doctors Best, also found that 42% of people who have already noticed signs of aging reported experiencing a significant drop in self-esteem due to hair loss. That loss of confidence extends well beyond appearance: 51% said hair loss has negatively impacted their dating life, 35% said it has hurt their confidence in social situations, and 27% said it has diminished their confidence at work.

The findings show the emotional impact of hair loss is particularly pronounced for women. More than half of women (51%) who have experienced thinning hair said they have tried to hide it out of embarrassment.

“Hair loss is more than just a cosmetic concern; it affects confidence, relationships, and sense of self,” said Katie Lucas, CMO for Doctors Best. “Our research shows that nearly half of adults experience a real emotional impact when their hair thins, with women in particular feeling pressured to hide hair changes. Understanding and addressing these experiences is essential to supporting overall well-being for consumers seeking hair growth support.”

Three in four (75%) said it would be emotionally difficult to lose their hair completely — a number that rises to 82% among women, compared with 66% of men. Overall, 67% of respondents said their hair is central to their self-identity, with nearly 80% of Gen Z and Millennials agreeing.

Supplements are a popular option, with 68% of people experiencing hair loss already using or considering them. Respondents also said they would be open to trying medication or over-the-counter treatments if their current approach wasnt working.

Social perceptions around baldness were also split by gender. For men, 62% said a shaved head is preferable to visible balding, and 82% said baldness in men was appealing or neutral. Nearly half (49%) described baldness as unappealing in women, however.

“The study demonstrates that consumers want non-invasive options that not only promote hair growth, but also reinforce their confidence,” said Gale Bensussen, CEO of Doctors Best. “We aim to provide science-based, accessible solutions which enable consumers to embrace aging while fortifying their health and the physical attributes that so closely align with their self-identity.”