Schilling’s own hair loss began when she was in primary school; finally culminating in complete hair loss – alopecia universalis – in her forties. Although statistics on how it affects younger people are not readily available, it’s common enough to indicate that hair loss is not just a matter of advancing age or changing hormones. So what causes it? 

“It’s an autoimmune condition,” explains Schilling, “and nobody knows exactly what the trigger is: anything that triggers an autoimmune response could also trigger alopecia areata for people who have a genetic predisposition towards that condition.” Such triggers may include diet and lifestyle changes, as well as (our old friend) stress. 

Which, of course, is a word that’s been been practically synonymous with ‘furlough’, ‘pivot’ and ‘mask’ in the past few years – so little wonder that there has been a surge in reported cases of hair loss – and, equally, less support for those experiencing it.  “Because of the current mental health crisis in the UK, referrals into counselling and psychological support are few and far between,” says Schilling.

Unsurprisingly, Twitter users have been divided on Will Smith’s reaction to Rock’s comments, with some pointing out that it’s one thing to make a joke of a shaved head if it’s been done as a fashion statement; quite another to do so when it’s as a result of a disease. Are sufferers, on top of their own feelings about appearance, tormented by bullies? 

“Absolutely,” says Schilling. “For children and teenagers, certainly – that sense of isolation that comes with looking and feeling different is huge. And bullying does take place – even when you’re an adult. I’ve been chased down the street and called names.” Equally, she says, well-meaning comments can cut deep: “People in our support groups have been stopped by someone who asks ‘how’s your treatment going?’ because they assume that the hair loss is a result of chemotherapy – and with all the kindness that this comes with, it still helps to reinforce a sense of isolation and difference.” 

My own bald patches eventually grew back within a few years (during which time I tried to manage my health symptoms with oily fish and green vegetables)  coarser and frizzier than my pre-hair loss locks – and, says Schilling, around 30 to 50 percent of patients with alopecia areata spontaneously recover within a year without treatment. As back-up, I’ve taken collagen supplements for years – but is there an actual cure for alopecia?