TLDR Some African American women experience central scalp hair loss, often linked to a history of fungal scalp infection.
In a study of 529 African American women, researchers sought to determine the frequency and potential causes of central scalp hair loss. They found that 5.6% of subjects experienced extensive central scalp hair loss, with the only significant association being a personal history of tinea capitis. The study used a central scalp photographic scale and questionnaire to assess hair loss patterns and did not find a clear link to the use of relaxers, hot combs, seborrheic dermatitis, reactions to hair care products, bacterial infections, or male pattern hair loss in fathers. The study had limitations, including the lack of scalp biopsy correlation and the need for more detailed information on hair care practices. The findings suggest that clinicians should focus on identifying and treating inflammatory conditions early to prevent this type of hair loss.
88 citations,
April 2011 in “Archives of Dermatology” Type 2 diabetes, bacterial scalp infections, and tight hairstyles like braids and weaves are linked to a higher risk of a scarring hair loss condition in African American women.
76 citations,
November 2010 in “Journal of The American Academy of Dermatology” Some African American women's central scalp hair loss is linked to genetics and past fungal scalp infections, with more research needed on other causes.
76 citations,
November 2010 in “Journal of The American Academy of Dermatology” Some African American women's central scalp hair loss is linked to genetics and past fungal scalp infections, with more research needed on other causes.
19 citations,
August 2011 in “Archives of Dermatology” CCCA is a common scarring hair loss in African descent women, possibly linked to genetics, hair care practices, and health issues like diabetes.
7 citations,
July 2019 in “Clinics in Dermatology” Hair loss can indicate or worsen with systemic diseases, and treating the underlying condition is important.
17 citations,
January 2015 in “Current problems in dermatology” Understanding and treating hair disorders in different ethnic groups requires knowledge of specific hair care practices and hair characteristics.
3 citations,
January 2019 in “Skin Research and Technology” Frequent use of hair straighteners can cause hair loss similar to scarring alopecia in young Turkish women.
