Jada Pinkett Smith has spoken publicly about her struggle with hair loss, revealing that she was initially terrified when clumps of hair began falling out. The 46-year-old actress discussed the condition during the latest episode of her Facebook series, Red Table Talk.
She said she had been wearing a turban to cover her hair, and explained that doctors have not identified a definitive cause, although she suspects stress may be a factor. She recalled the moment she first realised something was wrong, saying handfuls of hair came loose in the shower.
The Girls Trip star described feeling as though she was 'literally shaking with fear' and wondering if she was going bald. This prompted her to cut her hair, and she continues to do so. She admitted that talking about the issue is difficult, as caring for her hair used to be a 'beautiful ritual'. However, she has found perspective by comparing her situation with those facing more serious illnesses, saying she watches 'the higher power take things every day'.
The conversation took place on the third episode of Red Table Talk, which she co-hosts with her mother Adrienne Canfield Norris and daughter Willow Smith. Previous episodes have touched on loss, motherhood and body image, with Willow previously revealing she self-harmed as a child after the release of her debut single, Whip My Hair.
Smith has since taken to wearing scarves on her head, describing the choice as empowering.
