Traction Alopecia

Traction Alopecia occurs when hair is subjected to extreme tension over a long period of time. Exceedingly tight ponytails and hairstyles such as braids and cornrows can cause this type of hair loss, as can an over-reliance on hair extensions. Although it is mainly experienced by women, it can affect both sexes.

This type of hair loss is easy to prevent, and relies on hairstyles being changed regularly to prevent over-tension on any one part of the head. If you are used to wearing your hair in a tight bun, or ponytail, then having days off from this style to let the hair recover and regain its strength will help prevent the onset of Traction Alopecia.

Similarly with hair weaves and extensions always ensure you are using extensions of the highest quality and that they are applied by a hair care professional. You should have complete trust in your stylist and listen to their recommendations regarding care of your extensions as well as your own hair.

If your hairdresser recommends a break from extensions, it is highly advisable to do so, as continuing to put your hair under the strain of hosting extensions could lead to Traction Alopecia.

As Traction Alopecia is not a medical illness, there are no other symptoms associated with it. However, some sufferers may find themselves with a persistent tension headache from where the hair is pulled too tight. This will ease as soon as the hair is released from its constrictive posture.

The hair loss itself, often focused around the hairline and temples, is treatable, provided that hair has not stopped growing entirely, as can occur in severe cases.

Depending on the stage that the hair loss caused by Traction Alopecia has reached, there are products that may help to restore the denisty of the hair that has been affected.

We recommend you contact your GP or a dermatologist about this.

Once the follicles affected by Traction Alopecia have ceased to produce hair, treatment will not be effective. This will be the case if the hair has been under large amounts of strain for many years and the areas of traction alopecia hair loss are completely bald (these areas will appear shiny). In such cases there may however be surrounding follicles that are still producing hair that can be helped.

The easiest way to prevent Traction Alopecia is to avoid any further tension on the affected areas by not wearing your hair in tight styles.