The influence of psychological illnesses on patterns of hair growth
Psychological illness can also have a harmful impact on the endocrine system and result in abnormal hair growth. Anorexia nervosa is a psychological disorder that is characterised by an extreme aversion to food. It most commonly occurs in young women and can result in life threatening weight loss. This condition can cause downy hair growth on the face, arms and back. Bulimia is also an eating disorder and involves increased appetite ranging from excessive food intake, to an out of control compulsive cycle of binge eating, followed by purging, usually vomiting. This condition can result in a similar hair growth pattern as anorexia.