Hair is Important – Animated Awareness Campaign for HairLoss.com
Client: HairLoss.com
Creative Direction, Storyboarding, Illustration & Animation: Ian David Marsden
Year: 2011
More Animation, Motion and Explainer Video Projects
HairLoss.com, the leading U.S. online resource for hair loss education, awareness, and solutions, partnered with me on a deeply human project — a series of animated videos addressing the emotional impact of hair loss conditions including Alopecia, Trichotillomania, and Androgenetic hair loss.
A Visual Campaign About Identity, Healing & Hope
The “Hair is Important” Animated Awareness Series aimed to empower viewers and foster compassion around issues of self-image and confidence. I was brought on to design and animate the entire series of five short films, from script to screen — delivering a cohesive visual style and emotionally resonant storytelling through animation.
My Role in the Project
- Storyboarding and visual narrative development
- Original character design and background illustration
- Full 2D animation using Flash (now Adobe Animate)
- Voiceover-sync and motion design
- Deliverables for both website embed and YouTube campaign
Watch the Full Video Series
Here are the six animated videos created for the campaign — each designed to speak directly to those experiencing hair loss and those who support them.
1. Hair is Important – Self-Reflection
This opening short explores the emotional weight of hair loss through a man facing his reflection. The piece sets the tone for the campaign, capturing vulnerability and beginning the journey to self-acceptance.
2. True Beauty – Trichotillomania
A young individual sits alone in a dimly lit room, struggling with compulsive hair-pulling. The video invites compassion and understanding, shedding light on this often-hidden condition.
3. True Beauty – Living with Alopecia
Set in a garden of blooming roses, a woman paints joyfully, embodying inner strength and embracing beauty beyond traditional appearance standards. The visuals celebrate self-worth and authenticity.
4. Restoring Confidence and Adventure
A smiling couple embraces at the Grand Canyon. This video illustrates how restored confidence — whether through treatment, support, or self-acceptance — allows people to reclaim joy and live fully.
5. Hair and Identity in Pop Culture
Set against a cityscape of pop icons, this piece explores the cultural pressure tied to hair, fame, and identity. It encourages viewers to see past the surface and reconnect with individual worth.
6. True Beauty – Cancer Recovery
Hair loss during cancer treatment can feel as devastating as the illness itself. This moving short affirms that while hair loss may be temporary, your beauty is not. With heartfelt narration and symbolic imagery, the video honors the courage, resilience, and enduring spirit of those undergoing cancer recovery.
“True beauty is found in your heart — not on your head. It’s the strength to smile, the love of family, and the courage to feel beautiful anyway.”
A Project Close to my Heart
As an illustrator and animator, I often use visual storytelling to bring humor, charm, or fantasy to life. But this project was different. It was an opportunity to make something meaningful — to uplift, reassure, and bring dignity to those living with difficult realities. I’m proud to have helped HairLoss.com raise awareness and spark conversations with compassion and creativity.
Let’s Create Something That Matters
Looking to tell an emotional story with animation, illustration, or motion graphics? I bring 20+ years of experience across international campaigns, healthcare, education, and wellness brands. Don’t hesitate to contact me, to discuss your vision:
[email protected]
Ian David Marsden Creative – Illustration | Character Design | Animation | Branding
