Traction Alopecia
Overview:
Traction alopecia is a form of hair loss that is caused by repetitive or sustained pulling on the hair . This type of hair loss can be seen in people who often wear their hair in tight braids, cornrows, or ponytails. It can also be seen in people who use extensions or weaves that are applied to the scalp. Traction alopecia can also occur if someone rubs their hair too hard or pulls on it when it is wet. It is most common in black women, but can occur in any sex or ethnicity. Traction alopecia is diagnosed and treated by a dermatologist. When treated early hair regrowth is possible, however, in advanced stages the hair follicles scar and hair loss can be permeant.
Causes:
Traction alopecia is caused by repetitive or sustained pulling on the hair . This type of hair loss can be seen in people who often wear their hair in tight braids, cornrows, or ponytails. It can also be seen in people who use extensions or weaves that are applied to the scalp. Traction alopecia can also occur if someone rubs their hair too hard or pulls on it when it is wet.
Symptoms:
There are three stages of Traction alopecia:
- The first stage is called “mild” and in this stage there is only slight hair loss that can be seen in the form of thinning. The hair follicles are not yet scarred at this point and the hair loss is reversible.
- The second stage is called “moderate” and in this stage the hair loss is more noticeable and there may be some bald spots. The hair follicles are beginning to scar at this point and the hair loss may only be partially reversible.
- The third stage is called “severe” and in this stage the hair loss is extensive with large bald spots. The hair follicles are severely scarred at this point and the hair loss is not reversible.
Source: https://www.flickr.com/photos/30478819@N08/51812223104
License: Attribution 2.0 Generic (CC BY 2.0)
Diagnosis
Traction alopecia is diagnosed by a dermatologist. The dermatologist will examine the scalp and ask about hair styling practices. A biopsy may be done to rule out other causes of hair loss.
Treatment
There are several ways to treat traction alopecia:
- If the traction alopecia is in the mild stage, then treatment may not be necessary. In this case, the individual just needs to avoid hairstyles that pull on the hair. If the traction alopecia is in the moderate or severe stage, then treatment will be necessary.
- The primary treatment for traction alopecia is to stop the behavior that is causing the traction alopecia. This means avoiding tight hairstyles, extensions, and weaves. If the traction alopecia is mild, then the hair may grow back on its own once the behavior is stopped. If the traction alopecia is moderate or severe, then treatment will be necessary to regrow the hair.
- Treatment for traction alopecia typically involves the use of steroids. Steroids can be injected into the scalp, applied topically in a cream or ointment, or taken orally. Steroids help to reduce inflammation and promote hair growth.
- In addition to steroids, minoxidil (Rogaine) is often used to treat traction alopecia. Minoxidil is a over the counter topical medication that is applied to the scalp or as a prescription strength oral medication. Minoxidil helps to promote hair growth.
Prognosis
Prognosis for Traction alopecia is generally good if the problem is caught early and treated appropriately. However, if the Traction alopecia is severe and has been present for a long time, then the hair loss may be permanent.
If you think you may have traction alopecia, it is important to see a dermatologist. A dermatologist can help to diagnose traction alopecia and develop a treatment plan.