Traction Alopecia: Prevention and Treatment

Introduction

Traction Alopecia refers to hair loss that arises as a result of repeated pulling or tension to the hair follicles. Traction alopecia commonly affects individuals who tend to wear tight hair styles such as ponytail, braid, bun, cornrow, hair extension and many others. This problem starts gradually but ignoring early symptoms may cause permanent hair loss due to follicle damage. The positive aspect about this condition is that Traction Alopecia is preventable and treatable if identified early enough. Therefore, it is important to learn more about its causes, symptoms, prevention measures, and treatments.

What Is Traction Alopecia?

As a result of continuous pressure, Traction Alopecia is associated with hair follicle damage. Continuous pressure weakens hair follicles causing hair loss and breakage. Early stages of traction alopecia are always reversible, especially if the source of pressure is eliminated. However, continued follicle stress may result in permanent hair loss.

The condition affects individuals of all ages regardless of hair types, although it is more prevalent in individuals who use tight hair styles or heavy hair extensions.

Tips for Preventing Traction Alopecia

Preventing Traction Alopecia can be much simpler than curing it. The following are some useful tips:

1. Use Loose Hairstyles

Avoid using hairstyles that cause tight pulling on the scalp. You can use loose ponytails, braids, or buns in order to put less strain on the hair follicles.

2. Change Hairstyles Regularly

Changing the style will avoid the constant strain on the same parts of the scalp.

3. Minimize the Usage of Extensions

If you use hair extensions or weaves, make sure they do not add extra weight or cause too much pulling on your scalp.

4. No Pulling While Sleeping

It is preferable to remove any tight hairstyle before sleeping as much as possible.

5. Treat Hair with Care

Try not to brush your hair aggressively or apply heat treatments and chemicals to it.

Treatment for Traction Alopecia

The choice of treatment will depend on the severity of the problem.

Prevent Cause of Stress

First and foremost, you need to stop pulling on your hair in styles which cause stress on your hair follicles. This way, you may allow your hair to regrow on its own.

Medications

Your dermatologist can advise you to use various topical creams such as minoxidil to encourage hair growth. At times, when there is some inflammation in the affected area, he or she may prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs or corticosteroids.

Proper Diet

You should eat plenty of proteins, iron, zinc, biotin, vitamin D, and all other necessary vitamins in order to grow hair well.

Hair Transplants

In case there is some scarring and hair follicles have stopped growing hair, hair transplant surgery may be an option for you.

When Should You Visit Your Dermatologist about Traction Alopecia?

You should visit your hair specialist if you observe hair thinning, receding hairline, scalp pain, or hair regrowth after you change your hairstyle.

Conclusion: Traction Alopecia

Traction Alopecia is an avoidable type of hair loss resulting from continuous pulling of the hair follicles. The leading causes include tight hairdos, extensions, and poor hair care practices. Being able to identify the initial signs and making changes in how one styles his/her hair will not only help in preventing permanent damage but also in promoting healthy regrowth of the hair. In case of ongoing hair loss, it is advisable to see a dermatologist.