Help, how do I find a hairdresser that will understand

[Stevienickssleeves]

I have asperger's and my stim is that I continuously rub/scratch the same patch of my scalp. While you can't see it when my hair is parted to the other side, I'm sure they will notice that I now have a bald patch about the size of a 10p piece. I am extremely embarassed to go to the hairdresser. I have been cutting my own hair for years now, but I want a better haircut so that I can straighten it and have a sleeker more professional look. How do I broach this with a hairdresser without them pitying/judging me. Needless to say I find this an awkward social interaction at the best of times, even before I had this bald spot! Reassurance please

would you consider a mobile hairdresser coming to your home? you might feel more comfortable there if its just you and her (no other clients etc)

What area are you in? Know the likely hood of you being near me is slim but if you are I'd be happy to to do your hair for you.

Where are you London based? I can recommend someone who would be amazing for you as he has a private studio and works with you in a very individual and sensitive way.

I do this too. I would just say to the hairdresser- 'just to warn you- I have a little bald spot so don't be too surprised when you come across it!'

Experienced hairdressers will have seen much worse. Like peachypips says, tell them to expect it so they won't be surprised. If they ask why and you are comfortable doing so, tell them why but if you're not just say something like "it's been there for years, doesn't bother me. What lovely weather we're having...".

Just to add - don't be embarrassed. X

You could hand them a short note so you don't have to explain in the salon?

Just to reassure, as a pp said hairdressers should be used to these things. I quite often have patches of eczema (similar size by the sounds of it) on my scalp and my hairdresser doesn’t bat an eyelid, I just mention that it’s there when we’re doing the ‘what do you want for your hair today’ bit.

Thank you so much for the kind advice. It's great to hear that you don't think they'll be horrified, and yes probably have seen worse. I need to get it in perspective! I will gird my courage and book an appointment.

I have Aspergers. I have a “twiddle” which means where I “worry” a strip of hair, it splits and looks like it’s breaking. I know I must leave it alone. I can’t. I have told my hairdresser (she’s a mobile but, I go to her house) and she’s seen it before in other clients. I think you’ll find that a hairdresser will be understanding and non-judgemental if you explain it to them.

I hope you get a lovely “do”. Don’t forget to take in some images of what you’d like 😊