Of Hair and Its Loss

Johanna Latva's dissertation explores the cultural and gendered meanings of women's baldness in Finland, focusing on both voluntary and illness-induced hair loss, such as alopecia areata. The study, based on personal testimonies and newspaper analyses, highlights the social and personal significance of hair, revealing how baldness affects women's daily lives, gender identity, and social interactions. Latva's work is pioneering in expanding cultural studies of appearance to include baldness, contributing to health research by considering cultural meanings, and enhancing gender studies by examining women's experiences. The dissertation underscores the importance of hair in femininity and social norms, while also addressing the sensory and emotional impacts of hair loss. Despite its descriptive style, the research offers valuable insights into the cultural and social dimensions of baldness.