Using technology to help treat hair-pulling disorder

Technology Assisted Treatment for Trichotillomania

NIH-funded research Habitaware, INC. · NIH-10766710

This study is testing a new wearable device and app that helps people with trichotillomania by making them more aware of their hair-pulling habits and providing helpful tools to reduce those urges.

Quick facts

Grant typeSbir 2 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionHabitaware, INC. NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Minneapolis, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10766710 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a wearable device and app system designed to assist individuals with trichotillomania, a condition characterized by compulsive hair pulling. The project aims to enhance awareness of hair-pulling behaviors and deliver evidence-based treatments directly through the device. By utilizing a combination of behavioral interventions and real-time feedback, the system seeks to reduce the severity of symptoms in patients. A randomized controlled trial will be conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of this innovative approach.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with trichotillomania who are seeking effective treatment options.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have trichotillomania or those who are not interested in using technology-based interventions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new, accessible treatment option for individuals struggling with trichotillomania.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results with technology-assisted interventions for behavioral disorders, indicating potential success for this approach.

Where this research is happening

Minneapolis, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.