TLDR Tight hairstyles can cause hair loss, which can be permanent if not treated early.
Traction alopecia is hair loss caused by prolonged tension from hairstyles like tight braids and buns, commonly affecting women of African descent. Early stages are reversible, but long-term tension can lead to permanent scarring. Symptoms include tenderness and acne-like bumps. Diagnosis is typically clinical, sometimes using a dermatoscope or skin biopsy. Prevention involves stopping tension-related hairstyles early. Treatments include topical and injected corticosteroids, antibiotics, and minoxidil, but severe cases may require hair transplant surgery. There are no FDA-approved treatments for traction alopecia.
5 citations,
August 2019 in “International Journal of Women's Dermatology” The document concludes that it's important to recognize and treat hair loss in women of color, considering their unique hair characteristics and psychological impact.
60 citations,
April 2018 in “Clinical, cosmetic and investigational dermatology” Tight hairstyles and chemical relaxers can cause hair loss known as traction alopecia.
2 citations,
February 2021 in “The Journal of clinical and aesthetic dermatology” Understanding the cause of bitemporal hair loss is key to deciding the right treatment.
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July 2023 in “Journal of Clinical Medicine” Different causes of beard hair loss have various treatments, including medications, lifestyle changes, and procedures to stimulate hair growth.
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July 2017 in “Frontiers in Medicine” Early and personalized treatment for hair loss in young people is crucial to prevent permanent damage and should include psychological support.
