Black Women's Hair: The Main Scalp Dermatoses and Aesthetic Practices in Women of African Ethnicity

August 2015 in “ Anais Brasileiros de Dermatologia ”

Aline Tanus, Camila Caberlon Cruz Oliveira, Delky Johanna Villarreal Villarreal, Fernando Andres Vargas Sanchez, Maria Fernanda Reis Gavazzoni Dias

acquired proximal trichorrhexis nodosa short anagen syndrome traction alopecia central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia anti-inflammatory agents topical corticosteroids tacrolimus tetracycline minoxidil hair transplantation Lichen Planus Pilaris Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia androgenetic alopecia Rogaine

TLDR Black women's unique hair characteristics and styling practices can lead to specific scalp conditions, which require early diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

The document from 2015 reviews the unique characteristics of Afro-ethnic hair, the cultural hair styling practices among black women, and the main scalp dermatoses affecting this demographic. It explains that Afro-ethnic hair's fragile structure and the traction from certain hairstyles make it more susceptible to conditions like acquired proximal trichorrhexis nodosa (APTN) and short anagen syndrome. The review also covers the prevalence of traction alopecia (TA) and central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia (CCCA) in black women, detailing their symptoms, risk factors, and the importance of early diagnosis for effective treatment. Treatment recommendations include the use of anti-inflammatory agents, topical corticosteroids, tacrolimus, tetracycline, minoxidil, and hair transplantation. The document also discusses Lichen Planus Pilaris (LPP), Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia (FFA), and androgenetic alopecia, noting that the latter presents with "acquired kinky hair" in black women. It emphasizes the need for dermatologists to recognize these conditions and provide appropriate hair care guidance, including the avoidance of harmful hair practices and the consideration of healthier options like natural hairstyles.

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Research cited in this study

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research Primary Cicatricial Alopecias: Clinicopathology of 112 Cases

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