Traction Alopecia

Traction alopecia

Traction alopecia is a form of alopecia, or gradual hair loss, caused primarily by pulling force being applied to the hair. This type of hair loss is more common among African Americans, Indian Sikhs and Japanese women who tie their hair too tightly. Also women who tie their hair into a very tight knot, tight beard or turban or ponytail experience this type of hair loss on the front or the sides of the scalp. This increases the tension in the hair giving rise to breakage of hair. Unlike other types of alopecia, Traction alopecia is more common among children, teenagers and young adults due to different styles they make with their hair. People who attach hairpieces on their hair and don’t remove them for long periods of time also suffer through this type of hair loss.

Besides tight hair styles one more cause that leads to Traction Alopecia is over processing of the hair with certain thermal or chemical treatments such as dyes, bleaches, strengtheners etc. The chemicals present in these products are harsh for the hair making them fragile and weak. This damage is irreversible if it has greatly affected the health of the hair. Also the heat from heating instruments such as blow dryers contributes towards traction alopecia. The heat from these devices is harmful for hair follicles causing them to break out.

Traction alopecia can only be stopped if it is diagnosed at an early stage. This can be done by avoiding tight hairstyles that put extra pressure on the roots of the hair causing them to break out. People can make the same hairstyles by avoiding extra tightening or they can switch to loose and gentle hairstyles that are not harsh for their hair follicles. People who have identified that they are suffering through traction alopecia should take immediate action and consult a doctor as soon as possible who usually warns them against hair styles such as braids, cornrows, weaving and chemical processing. Many traction Alopecia patients expect quick results once they have stopped making tight hair styles. This is completely wrong because often it takes several months for the hair to recover from this severe hair disorder. Also there are many cases in which some of the areas on the scalp never fully recover from traction alopecia.

It is advised to treat Traction Alopecia as soon as possible because if ignored for a long period of time it sometimes leads to permanent hair loss. A treatment suggested for advanced stages of Traction Alopecia is hair transplant and this is a very effective treatment. The best way to treat hair loss related to traction alopecia and Trichotillomania is with the help of a strict hair care regimen and by showing patience. Hair transplant is the solution for long standing cases.