Traction Alopecia is a specific type of hair loss which results when tension is applied to hair follicles (roots) for an extended period of time. Traction Alopecia, therefore, differs from most other causes of hair loss as it is behavioral and directly results from the patient\u2019s own activity.<\/p>\n
The problem is caused as hair is excessively pulled, braided (corn rows), twisted, weaved, overly styled, or otherwise abused time after time. These cause an ongoing pulling force on the hair roots (Hair Follicles) which ultimately causes the hair bulb to gradually separate from the follicle and permanent hair loss. Unlike hair plucking which is painful, persistent and prolonged gentle pulling may go unnoticed until hair loss begins to appear.<\/p>\n
Although Traction Alopecia is much more common in women as they are more likely to braid and excessively over style their hair (particularly in some specific ethnic groups just as African Americans) we have seen it affect men similarly who may:<\/p>\n
Preventing traction alopecia first requires identifying and treating the root cause of the problem. Behavioral changes are necessary to ensure that hair loss will not worsen. This can be as simple as adjusting the hair style (to braid the hair more loosely, or to remove the braids intermittently to reduce tension buildup on the hair follicles for example). If the individual unconsciously twists, pulls, or plucks their hair due to stress or anxiety a more comprehensive psychological approach must be taken to combat the habit.<\/p>\n
Once further damage and hair loss has been stopped, then treatment is available to permanently restore the lost hair follicles. As non-invasive methods such as the use Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) often have limited positive results, Hair Transplantation is usually the best and most permanent treatment option for treatment.<\/p>\n
The solution must resolve the underlying cause. If the patient is losing their hair due to their hair style for example having an overly tight hair bun or hair braids then the answer is adjusting or changing the hair style.\u00a0 If the patient is losing their hair due to wearing of a tight helmet over an extended period of time then the best response is to reduce the total time duration that the person has this type of helmet on their head.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
1. What are some common causes of traction alopecia? Traction Alopecia is a specific type of hair loss which results when tension is applied to hair follicles (roots) for an extended period of time. Traction Alopecia, therefore, differs from most other causes of hair loss as it is behavioral and directly results from the patient\u2019s own activity. 2. Why do … <\/p>\n