All Hairstyles Are Not Created Equal: What the Dermatologist Needs to Know About Black Hairstyling Practices and the Risk of Traction Alopecia

The document discussed the prevalence of traction alopecia (TA) among black women, attributing it to certain hairstyling practices common in the black community. It highlighted the diagnostic and therapeutic challenges faced by dermatologists due to limited literature on these hairstyling methods. The review aimed to enhance clinicians' understanding of these practices to better manage TA and prevent permanent hair loss. It categorized hair care and styling practices into high-, moderate-, and low-risk groups and provided a diagnostic approach and guidelines for conservative management. The goal was to develop individualized recommendations for safer styling alternatives and improve patient education by identifying high-risk hairstyling habits.