Traction Alopecia a specific type of hair loss caused by hair styles that puts tension on the hair and scalp. This tension can be seen particularly along the hair line..
So, what are these hair styles?
1. Slick tight buns.
These hair styles are commonly worn by dancers, gymnasts, and women in general, as a go to everyday style or an elegant look for a special occasion. However, the increased pulling, brushing, and tension of the perfect slick back bun can cause thinning and loss of hair.
2. Tight braids
Braids such as cornrows, braids using extensions, and twists using extensions are often used as protective styles especially during the harsh winter months and for busy women who are looking for a get up and go hairstyle. To obtain these styles, there is pulling to gather up the small fine hairs at the front and sides of the head which can cause hair loss that may not grow back.
3. Tight roller sets.
Looking for the perfect curls can cause stylists to pull and tug to get all the hairs into a roller set. This can cause hair to break off at the root.
4. Wigs
Wigs also can cause hair loss. It’s due to the friction of the wig on the front and sides of the head.
There are ways to prevent hair thinning and loss.
1. Decrease the amount of pull, brushing, combing to the front and sides of your scalp.
2. If your hair is in a tight bun or if you normally wear wigs during the day. Let your hair loose during the evening and overnight.
3. Save the high manipulation hair style for certain occasions. Put your hair in a low tension, low maintenance protective hair style to decrease the stress placed on the hair.
4. If you are experiencing abnormal hair loss. Talk with your doctor about checking for medical conditions that cause hair loss.
If you are still experiencing hair thinning and hair loss, did you know that your own blood can treat your hair loss?
This treatment is called Platelet Rich Plasma (or PRP for short). PRP takes your blood, spins it down to isolate the plasma containing platelets. Platelets containing many growth factors can help stimulate your scalp to grow hair. It is a great option if you do not want to use medications, if medications are not effective, or you do not what to pay for costly procedures such as hair transplants. The treatment is done in a doctor’s office with little to no side effects. Hair growth can be seen as early as 1 month; however, 3-4 months of treatment is recommended.
The first and best treatment for hair loss due to Traction Alopecia is prevention.
Second, treat any underlying medical causes of hair loss.
Third, if you are still experiencing hair loss, PRP is a safe and next best option.