TLDR CCCA affects Black men too, with a genetic link found in the PADI3 gene.
Central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia (CCCA) is predominantly a condition affecting Black women, but recent observations have identified its occurrence in Black men as well. While traditionally linked to specific hair care practices, such as the use of hot combs and tight hairstyles, these associations lack definitive evidence. A genetic component has been identified, with mutations in the PADI3 gene, which plays a role in hair shaft formation, being linked to CCCA. This highlights the need for further research into the genetic and environmental factors contributing to CCCA in both men and women.
2 citations
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May 2023 in “JAAD Case Reports” The document concludes that early and accurate diagnosis of hair loss on the top of the scalp in Black men is important to distinguish CCCA from other types of hair loss.
57 citations
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January 2020 in “International Journal of Molecular Sciences” PADs are crucial for healthy skin and hair, and their imbalance can cause skin and hair disorders.
95 citations
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February 2019 in “The New England Journal of Medicine” Mutations in the PADI3 gene are linked to a higher risk of scarring hair loss in women of African descent.
November 2024 in “Journal of Investigative Dermatology” Genetic changes in specific proteins contribute to hair loss in some women of African descent.
5 citations
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February 2019 in “The New England Journal of Medicine” Certain mutations in the PADI3 gene may increase the risk of developing a type of scarring hair loss common in women of African descent.
November 2025 in “Journal of Investigative Dermatology” Genetic variants in specific genes cause central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia.
July 2019 in “Journal of Investigative Dermatology” The research found that male pattern hair loss is mostly genetic and involves hair thinning due to hormonal effects and changes in gene expression.
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