What is Alopecia? Part 2

A common type of alopecia is called Traction Alopecia.

How Does It Happen?

• Due to pulling forces, which may damage the hair follicles.

• The damage induces an inflammatory response, which may show as redness and irritated bumps on the skin. 

• As this continues to happen over time, we eventually see hair loss.

• Can be associated with chemical relaxers.

• Hair practices (not hair type!) 

• Note: There are other types of alopecia!

What are hair practices?
This means how we wear our hair! Not only the style but how tight it is and how much it is pulling on your scalp. This includes: buns, ponytails, extensions, cornrows, dreadlocks. Hair accessories and scarves can also put a lot of pulling force on the hair! 

What what we can do to avoid this from happening?

• Go natural! If possible, give your hair some time to recover.

• Opt for a looser tension, especially near the hairline. 

• Change your hairstyle if you notice pain from tight hair, stinging, and crusting on your scalp.

• Look for early signs of hair loss so you and your dermatologist can address it early (broken hair, receding hairline, patches of hair loss).

What are other causes of alopecia?

• Hair care - ingredients found in hair products.

• Balding - 80% of men experience this & genetics plays a role!

• Autoimmune diseases - lupus, alopecia areata, thyroid issues.

• Medications

  • They have side effects!

• Nutrition

• Stress

  • Stress can come in many forms - school, work, relationships.

  • But also from health disparities.