Effects of Hair Loss on Depression in Generation MZ

Purpose: This study aimed to investigate the effect of scalp and hair condition on depressive symptoms in the MZ generation and to provide foundational data for the development of the market and research on hair loss.Methods: A survey was administered to men and women of the MZ generation, with ages ranging from 20 to 45 years. Data were analyzed using SPSS 25.0, and exploratory factor analyses, calculation of Cronbach’s α coefficients, independent sample t test, one-way analysis of variance, and Duncan’s post-hoc test.Results: Hair loss conditions were worse among women, those aged ≥25 years, married individuals, housewives, professionals, sales/service workers, smokers, and those who consumed alcohol more than twice a week. Symptoms of depression and its subfactors were more frequent among those aged 40–45 years, married individuals, those with a monthly income below 4 million KRW, and smokers. The condition of hair loss was found had a statistically significant positive effect on depression subfactors.Conclusion: This study analyzing the impact of hair loss on depressive symptoms provides baseline information, contributing to the advancement of hair loss market and related academic research.