Unlike many other types of alopecia, traction alopecia is caused by very external factors that result in hair loss – usually from force to the hair. This is often seen in celebrities who are constantly undergoing hair treatment and maintenance, which can damage the hair follicles and provide undue stress on the scalp. It can also be caused by wearing hats or helmets that fit tightly to the scalp.
The good news about traction alopecia though, is that with better care, the hair loss effects of this condition can be reversed if you catch it in its early stages, before too much permanent damage has been done to the hair follicle.
1. Wear your hair down. Forgo keeping your hair in tight ponytails, braids, or dreadlocks as this can put stress on the roots of your hair.
2. Put a hold on any type of chemical hair treatment. Hair dye and chemically straightening hair products. These products weaken hair follicles and make them more prone to falling out.
3. Stay away from excessive heat. Hair tools like straighteners can provide too much heat and be too harsh for hair follicles, which can weaken hairs and make hair growth more difficult.
4. Don’t use hair extensions or weaves. Since these types of accessories require tight braids to attach, it puts undue tension on the hairs, causing hair loss.
While later stages of traction alopecia aren’t reversible, recognizing the signs early on and avoiding hairstyles, products, and tools that exacerbate this type of alopecia IS possible.
