Alopecic Plaques in a Cook

A 26-year-old woman experienced gradual hair loss over 2 years, diagnosed as alopecia areata, but later identified as traction alopecia (TA) due to prolonged use of a tight elastic headband at work. Physical examination revealed symmetrical ovoid plaques of alopecia in the temporal regions. Despite initial treatment with mometasone and vitamins showing no improvement, cessation of headband use and treatment with clobetasol and minoxidil led to partial hair regrowth after 20 weeks. TA is caused by prolonged tension on hair, often from specific hairstyles, and can progress to irreversible scarring if not addressed. The case highlights the importance of considering hairstyling habits in diagnosing alopecia.