What to consider when choosing a hairstyle with myasthenia gravis

When living with myasthenia gravis (MG), sometimes even the simplest tasks, such as choosing a hairstyle, can feel like climbing Mount Everest. Today, I’m diving into the world of hair — short and long — and how each style can affect one’s daily life.

I’ve rocked both — well, sort of. The longest I’ve grown my hair since having MG has been shoulder length. I thought longer hair would be easier because I could just pull it back in a ponytail and not have to worry about it. Right? Kind of.

Without further adieu, here go my tips — many for women, but also for anyone with hair on top of their head.

Recommended Reading

September 5, 2024 News by Esteban Dominguez Cerezo, MS

Symptoms of gMG controlled after switch from azathioprine to MMF

The short hair saga

Advantages:

Short hair is like that reliable friend who’s always there for you. It’s low maintenance and requires less time to wash, dry, and style. When fatigue hits, especially arm weakness, I find myself thankful for the one-to-two-minute wash it requires.

If you’re like me and heat exacerbates your MG symptoms, short hair can be a lifesaver. It keeps you cooler and reduces the risk of overheating. I’m now sporting a chin-length style on top with an undercut that starts around the temple area. I love it for this reason.

With short hair, you’ll use fewer hair products, which means less time and effort spent on hair care. Plus, it’s easier on the wallet!

Disadvantages:

To keep that chic look, short hair needs regular trims. That means more trips to the salon, which can increase fatigue and make the wallet hurt a bit.

While short hair is versatile, it doesn’t offer as many styling options as long hair.

Short hair can be a bit unruly in humid or rainy weather. With my thick, curly hair, the frizz can sneak up on me.

The long hair chronicles

Advantages:

Long hair is like a blank canvas, allowing for versatility and many styling options. You can braid it, bun it, or let it flow freely.

In cold weather, long hair acts as an insulator, keeping the top and back of your head and neck a bit warmer and protected from the cool air.

Long hair doesn’t require trims as frequently as short hair.

Disadvantages:

Long hair demands more time and effort. Washing, drying, and styling (if you’re lucky enough to even get to this point) can be exhausting, especially on days when MG symptoms are flaring.

Long hair can feel like wearing a wool hat in the summer. It traps heat and can make you feel hotter, which isn’t ideal if heat worsens your symptoms.

Keeping long hair healthy often requires more products: shampoos, conditioners, serums, you name it.

Self-care tips for hair management

Regardless of your hair length, self-care is crucial. Here are some tips to make hair care more manageable:

Simplify your routine. Find a hair-care method that works for you and stick to it.

Embrace accessories. Hats, headbands, and scarves can be your best friends. They’re stylish and can help manage bad hair days with minimal effort.

Don’t hesitate to ask for assistance. Whether it’s a friend helping with a braid or a family member giving you a trim, there’s no shame in seeking support.

Listen to your body. On days when you’re feeling particularly fatigued, opt for simple styles that require minimal effort. Your health comes first.

Choosing between short and long hair is a personal decision, and there’s no right or wrong answer. It’s all about finding what works best for you and your lifestyle. Remember, whether you’re rocking a pixie cut or flowing locks, you’re fabulous just the way you are. So embrace your hair, take care of yourself, and keep roaring through life with myasthenia gravis!

Note: Myasthenia Gravis News is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Myasthenia Gravis News or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to myasthenia gravis.