Happy Healthy Hair
Traction Alopecia: A Friendly Chat with Your AI Trichologist
Welcome! I'm your AI Trichologist, here to chat about Traction Alopecia. I know hair loss can be worrying, but you're not alone, and there's a lot I can do to help. Let's go through some common questions I’m asked, and remember, I'm here to help you along your way.
What exactly is Traction Alopecia?
Think of Traction Alopecia as your hair's way of saying, "Ouch, that's too tight" and then you don’t do anything about those tight braids. It's a type of hair loss that happens when your hair is pulled too tightly, for too long. Imagine your hair is like a plant - if you keep tugging on it, eventually it will come out at the roots. That's basically what's happening with Traction Alopecia.
People suffering from this condition will have bald patches usually around their hairline as a result of excessive tension applied to their hair follicles.
Traction Alopecia is seen as Hair loss and thinning at the hairline predominately with some trauma being seen around the scalp wherever braids, clip on extensions, locks, wigs or weaves have been attached to the hair and the weight, movement and positioning of the attached hair has caused their natural hair to pulled our from the follicles.
Common symptoms:
01
Bald patches around the hairline and temples
The most obvious signs of Traction alopecia are gaps around the frontal hairline and at the temples.
02
Uneven breakage around scalp
The physical trauma begins with the continuous use of tightly installed braids, cornrows weaves and blow drying with excessive tension.
03
Thinning hair at the hairline
Traction hair loss at the margins is a very common form of hair loss in African/Afro, Textured hair types. Inflammation caused by the difficulty of cleaning the scalp thoroughly due to the nature of the hairstyle.
04
Receding hairline
Traction applied to the hairline repeatedly can cause your hairline to recede quite significantly. The hairs are slowly pulled out from the inner root sheath over time and although the hairline can recover, often left without treatment for too long, the trauma can cause permanent hair loss.
AI TRICHOLOGIST SAYS
We’ve all had those heart-sinking moments at the mirror, looking at a thinning hairline or bald patches around the temples. Your edges seem to have receded or disappeared out of nowhere!
How can you tell whether your hairline will grow back if you're looking in the mirror now and it's either sparse or receded further away from your forehead?
Losing your edges as a black woman can be incredibly frustrating and take a toll on self-confidence. But don’t panic - with the right care, those edges can grow back.
Thinning edges are more common than you might think, but we need to get to the root cause.
What leads to the dreaded receding edges many black women experience? There are a few common culprits that can cause afro hair loss along the perimeter of the scalp and temples hairline. Why not complete the consultation form and receive your diagnosis explaining what damaged your edges, or why edges your edges have thinned and how to prevent more hair loss, and promote healthy hair regrowth?
Your Traction Alopecia solutions
How do I know if I have Traction Alopecia?
It's important to know what to look out for. You might notice
- Your hairline looking a bit sparse, especially around your temples
- Little bumps on your scalp
- Your scalp feeling sore or itchy
- Some broken hairs around your hairline
- Uneven hair growth
But don't worry if you're not sure - that's what professionals like me are here for!
What does Traction Alopecia look like?
I love my hairstyles! Do I really have to give them up?
I totally understand the dilemma as your hair is a big part of your style. The good news is, you don't have to give up stylish hair. It's all about finding a balance. Try looser styles, and give your hair a rest changing the direction of your installation - like starting at the back for cornrows, and having treatments between style changes. . Think of it as a spa day for your scalp.
How is Traction Alopecia diagnosed?
Don't worry, it's not a complex process. When you visit a dermatologist or trichologist like me, we'll
- Look at your scalp and hair with a trichoscope so its magnified (we can see everything!)
- Discuss your hair care routine (no judgement, promise!)
- Ask about your medical history
- The dermatologist may opt to do a small scalp biopsy
The goal is to make sure we're dealing with Traction Alopecia and not something else - then treat the condition appropriately.
Can Traction Alopecia be reversed?
I have good news! In many cases, especially if it’s treated early on, Traction Alopecia can be reversed. Your hair is pretty resilient and just wants to grow.
Here's what we might do:
- First, we'll look at gentler styling options
- There are some great products that can help encourage hair growth
- Electrotherapy and phototherapy will actively encourage that hair up through the scalp
- If your scalp is irritated, I suggest using some soothing home treatments
- At home treatments combining DHT blockers and wound healer factors
Remember, everyone's hair journey is unique. We'll find the best path for you together.
How long will it take to see improvement?
I know you're eager to see results, and that's totally understandable! The timeline can vary, but many people start seeing improvements within a few months of making changes. Some key things to remember:
- Consistency is key - stick with your new, gentler hair care routine
- Be patient with your hair, it's working hard to grow
- Take progress photos to track changes and reassure yourself with small improvements
How can I prevent Traction Alopecia in the future?
Prevention is definitely better than cure! Here are some tips to keep your hair and scalp happy:
- Give your hair regular 'rest days' from tight styles
- If it hurts, it's too tight!
- Be gentle when brushing, especially when your hair is wet
- Try silk or satin pillowcases to reduce friction while you sleep
- Keep your scalp and hair moisturised
Think of it as a self-care routine for your hair!
What does Traction Alopecia look like?
Traction alopecia resembles patchy hair loss. It is most obvious around the hairline, making it look uneven and thin. The temples can be completely missing depending on how long and the cause of the hair loss, sometimes these areas will require transplantation if the hair is completely lost. Hair restoration surgery in this area is a very specialist procedure and must be done by an expert surgeon with great design skills. If done well, this is one of the most natural and satisfying replacement surgeries available. If this is of interest I recommend having this done in the UK by a surgeon who is skilled in working with your hair texture and not travelling overseas where you might assume this is the budget friendly option.
What if the hair loss is permanent?
I understand this is a big worry. In some cases, if Traction Alopecia has been going on for a long time, the hair loss might be permanent. But don't lose hope.
There are still options:
- Hair transplant surgery can be very effective
- There are amazing ways to style your hair to camouflage thinning areas
- Some people rock their new look and embrace the change by shaving the sides of the head
Remember, your worth isn't defined by your hair.
Should I see a doctor about this?
Absolutely! It's always a good idea to get a professional opinion. A dermatologist or trichologist can:
- Confirm if it's actually Traction Alopecia
- Check if there might be other factors contributing to hair loss
- Provide personalised treatment recommendations
- Offer expert advice on hair care
Feel free to get in touch by email or complete the Free Consultation Form.
Happy To Help You!
Remember, you're not alone in this journey. Traction Alopecia is common and can be improved. With some changes and a little patience, I can help you to get your hair back to its healthier, happier self. If you have any more questions, don't hesitate to ask. Your hair deserves all the love and care you can give it.
Personal Online Trichologist
Your journey to happy healthy hair
starts here
Simply complete the consultation form for your FREE personal diagnosis.