Quality of life impairment among patients with hair disorders attending a tertiary care centre in Goa

Background: Hair disorders are frequently associated with psychosocial distress and impaired quality of life (QoL).
Objectives: To assess quality of life impairment using categorical DLQI severity bands among patients with hair disorders.
Methods: This three-month cross-sectional study included 96 patients with scarring and non-scarring hair disorders. Quality of life was assessed using categorical Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) severity bands.
Results: Overall, 79.2% of patients experienced some degree of QoL impairment. Non-scarring hair disorders predominated, while scarring alopecia appeared to show greater quality-of-life impact; however, this should be interpreted with caution due to the very small sample size. No significant association was found between DLQI severity and age or gender.
Conclusion: Hair disorders significantly impair quality of life. Routine categorical DLQI assessment may aid holistic management in dermatology practice.