Traction Alopecia: Mechanical and Traumatic Hair Loss

    April 2012 in “ Informa Healthcare eBooks ”
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    TLDR Tight hairstyles can cause temporary or permanent hair loss, with less hair seen under a microscope in later stages.
    Traction alopecia is a form of mechanical, traumatic hair loss that is usually mild and chronic, often resulting from hairstyles that involve tight braiding or banding of the hair. It is most common among African-American girls but can affect individuals of all races. The condition can initially cause temporary hair loss with possible regrowth, but if excessive traction continues for years, it may lead to permanent hair loss. Histologically, acute traction alopecia shows an increase in catagen/telogen hairs and normal follicular numbers, while end-stage disease is characterized by a marked reduction in the total number of terminal hairs, with vellus hairs remaining in normal numbers and no significant inflammation. The document suggests that traction alopecia is not solely caused by mechanical factors and that an immune-mediated mechanism is unlikely in its pathogenesis. The histological findings differ between early, reversible stages and permanent, "burnt out" stages of the condition.
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      community Treating traction alopecia for over a year

      in Progress Pictures  57 upvotes 8 months ago
      The user treated traction alopecia for over a year using Nutrafol, rosemary oil, topical and oral Minoxidil, dermarolling, biotin, collagen, and vitamin D, and shared progress photos to inspire others on their hair growth journey. They also acknowledged the community and a specific person for support and encouragement.

      community Help with Routine for 50 year old Black Woman

      in Female 4 years ago
      A 50-year-old Black woman with alopecia areata and traction alopecia is seeking a science-based hair loss routine. Current treatments include spearmint tea for DHT levels and considering PRP.

      community Roughly 6 month update: I was almost a goner

      in Progress Pictures  48 upvotes 1 year ago
      The user shared a 6-month update on their hair loss treatment, using finasteride/minoxidil gel, ketoconazole shampoo, thickening shampoo and conditioner, and topical minoxidil. They wash their hair three times a week and switched to a less oily topical foam. Other users commented on their hairstyle, advising against it to prevent traction alopecia.

      community 3 Doctors 3 Diagnoses: Please help.

      in Treatment  4 upvotes 10 months ago
      A user experiencing hair loss received three different diagnoses: androgenic alopecia, traction alopecia, and scarring alopecia, and tried treatments like minoxidil and finasteride without success. They are considering dutasteride but were advised to seek anti-inflammatory medication instead.

      community I got a hair transplant! Hide your wives!! Jk

      in Progress Pictures  5425 upvotes 2 months ago
      The user had a hair transplant in Turkey and started taking finasteride to maintain hair growth. They are satisfied with the results and plan to continue using finasteride while being cautious about hairstyles to prevent traction alopecia.

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