30/09/2026

LYFE WEDNESDAY | SEPT 30, 2026

23

Boldly bald o Considering options, finding freedom, confidence when addressing hair loss

Ű BY AMEEN HAZIZI

T HE first sign of hair loss is never that dramatic. It may be a widening part under the bathroom light, more scalp in a photograph or a hairline that needs increasingly careful styling. Eventually, a simple grooming routine can become a daily attempt to hide what is happening. For some men, shaving the remaining hair offers relief. It turns an advancing hairline into a clear style choice, removes the contrast between thin and dense areas and ends the battle with comb-overs, fibres and strategic camera angles. A bare scalp will not suit every preference, but it can appear sharper and more self-assured than a hairstyle being asked to conceal too much.

dihydrotestosterone, a hormone produced from testosterone. Hats, frequent shampooing and unusually high testosterone are not the usual culprits. The 2023 systematic review, The Psychological Consequences of Androgenetic Alopecia , examined 13 studies and found that the condition could affect self-esteem, body image and quality of life. The experience is far from universal, however. The 2025 international survey Men’s Baldness Stigma: A Mixed Methods International Survey , involving 357 balding men, found roughly half had been affected by baldness stigma, while another broad group reported little distress and rejected the idea that baldness made them lesser. How shaving can help Research gives some support to the phrase “bald is better than balding”, although it should not be treated as a law of

with full heads of hair. Digitally removing their hair also led observers to judge them as taller and stronger. The important word is perceived. A shaved head does not change a man’s ability, health or character, and the studies measured first impressions rather than long-term relationships. What shaving can provide is a sense of agency. That may be useful because acceptance appears closely connected to well-being. A study of 160 men aged 18 to 30 found that hair-loss distress was unrelated to age or the extent of balding. Acceptance was associated with lower distress, particularly among those with more advanced hair loss. Keep it or cut it Men who want to preserve their hair have valid options. Treatments such as topical or oral minoxidil and prescription finasteride may slow loss or encourage growth, especially when started early, but they require medical advice, realistic expectations and continued use. Sudden, patchy or unusual hair loss should be assessed by a doctor because it may have another cause. Shaving is equally valid. Start with a close buzz if a clean shave feels too severe, then decide whether to go shorter. Good clippers, scalp moisturiser and sunscreen make the change easier to maintain. Confidence does not arrive automatically with the first pass of a razor. It grows when a man stops treating his reflection as a problem to solve. Treatment may offer that control – for others, the quickest route is simply picking up the clippers.

Common reaction Male

change,

personal

pattern or androgenetic alopecia, may affect up to 80% of men during their lifetime. It is largely driven by genetics and the sensitivity of hair follicles to hair loss,

Embracing baldness can free men from hiding hair loss and help them feel happier and more confident in their appearance.

attraction. In three studies led by researcher Albert Mannes, men with shaved heads were perceived as more dominant than comparable men

Recognising the early signs gives men more time to consider treatment, a shorter haircut or simply letting nature take its course.

Hair loss often begins gradually, with thinning around the temples or reduced density at the crown. – PICS FROM 123RF

BUZZ SPOTS

Arlina Ayou, The Curve This Malaysian fashion house recently launched its boutique at Level LG1, The Curve. More than a retail space, the boutique is where clients can explore the brand’s collections, discover its design approach and experience personalised service. It houses Arlina Ayou’s Premium Ready-to-Wear, Atelier, Couture and Bridal collections, alongside styling consultations, private appointments, made-to-measure services and design consultations. Founded by Arlina Amdan, Arlina Ayou has spent nearly three decades developing fashion rooted in Malaysian textile heritage. Each collection begins with Arlina’s own sketches before being developed with skilled artisans and specialist makers across the East Coast, Selangor, Kuala Lumpur and East Malaysia. Arlina continues to bring Malaysia’s rich textile heritage to global audiences, creating a distinctive dialogue between tradition, craftsmanship and modern fashion. The boutique launch reflects Arlina Ayou’s purpose of creating timeless fashion through design and craftsmanship, while preserving and advancing Malaysian textile heritage through design and cultural sustainability.

Golden Goose, Pavilion Kuala Lumpur Spanning 160 sq m, the flagship reinterprets Golden Goose’s heritage in a contemporary setting, showcasing its latest women’s and men’s ready-to-wear collections, sneakers and accessories, including handbags, sunglasses, jewellery and more. Inspired by the brand’s original Haus in Marghera, Venice, the design features industrial textures, archival details and the brand’s aesthetic language. The interiors evoke the warmth and elegance of the Library at Haus, with rich wood finishes, soft lighting and curated bookcases. At the heart of the outlet is the Co-Creation area, offering Golden Goose’s signature one-to-one personalisation experience. Sneakers, ready-to-wear and accessories can be Co-Created through a range of personalised techniques, including embellishments, heat-seal crystals and by changing the Golden Goose star on sneakers. Additional treatments, including distressing and hand-painted artwork, allow clients to create one-of-a-kind pieces that reflect their personal style. The outlet also features the Con Amore corner, where gifting becomes an expression of care and affection.

Habib Imago, Imago Shopping Mall, Sabah Jewellery brand Habib recently launched its showroom at Imago Shopping Mall. This not only marks Habib’s latest expansion in Sabah, but also reflects the brand’s longstanding journey to bringing quality jewellery collections, craftsmanship and experiences closer to customers in East Malaysia. Located at Imago Shopping Mall, Sabah, Habib Imago offers an exclusive space for customers to discover a diverse range of jewellery collections. The showroom features Habib’s signature collections, including Oro Italia 916, diamond jewellery and gemstone collections, while also providing personalised consultation services and comprehensive after-sales care. Beyond serving local customers, Habib Imago also welcomes visitors from across Malaysia as well as international tourists, in line with Imago’s position as a vibrant lifestyle destination that attracts domestic and overseas visitors.

– HANDOUT PICS