EXID's HYELIN shocked by scalp condition and hair loss

“I have hair loss.”

HYELIN, a former member of the group EXID, was left flustered after discovering the state of her scalp. It was revealed on a broadcast that her hair and scalp were significantly damaged due to maintaining hair extensions for approximately 1.5 years and undergoing repeated bleaching during her idol career. It should be noted, however, that this was an expert's opinion provided during a scalp checkup rather than a formal medical diagnosis.

On the 24th, HYELIN appeared on the YouTube channel 'Real Life Mode Queen Ji Hyun' to consult about hair volume issues. Lee Ji Hyun, a hair designer, examined HYELIN's hair and explained that intensive care is necessary as the hair is thin and the scalp is sensitive, confirming the condition in detail through a scalp camera.

The issue appeared more serious than expected. Lee explained that while it is normal for multiple strands of hair to grow from a single pore, there were areas in HYELIN's case where only a single strand was visible, and the hair itself was thin. She also pointed out signs of scalp inflammation, noting that intensive management is required. Watching this, HYELIN reacted by saying, “I have hair loss,” appearing surprised by a condition she had not realized.

HYELIN was particularly shocked because it is difficult to personally monitor the condition of the back of one's head and scalp. She confessed that she "really didn't know," stating that it would have been difficult to notice her hair condition unless someone pointed it out. Following the checkup, she also reflected on her long-term use of hair extensions to compensate for hair volume.

Traces of her past idol activities remain evident. HYELIN revealed that she once underwent bleaching as many as 6 times in a single day to change her hair color quickly during her active years. While she accepted it at the time as part of the styling process to maintain an intense stage image, looking back, it is clear the process placed a significant burden on her hair and scalp.

HYELIN even recalled that the bleaching process was so intense that her scalp actually bled. She shared the reality of hair management for idols hidden behind the glamour, revealing that she eventually had to cut her hair into a short cut because it broke severely. Since their debut in 2012, EXID has been active, showcasing intense performances and styles with hit songs such as 'Up & Down,' with the members' stage styles serving as a core part of the team's identity.

This situation serves as a case study of the burden that long-term, repeated bleaching and hair procedures can place on hair and scalp health. For a public that primarily sees the finished hairstyles on stage, HYELIN's confession highlights the hidden physical toll of idol styling. For HYELIN, who has moved past her peak idol years and is now re-examining her physical health, this scalp checkup has served as an unexpected 'warning light.'