It's Called Traction Alopecia and It's A Real Thing.

We looked into this topic on behalf of a dear friend of mine. She's been my marathon training partner for years and ran long side me during chemotherapy, supporting me through the highs and lows. She helped me get back in shape after treatment ended and ran along side me at a very slow pace, for a very long time. From her, I learned about the reality and frustration of 'traction alopecia'. 

And, to all the girls out there who have had to pick themselves up, fix that ponytail, and get themselves back out there. This is for you too.

You've got this.

~Lindsey

Traction Alopecia: Causes, Prevention, and Treatment

Your hairstyle is an expression of who you are, but what if your favorite look is causing harm? Many people don't realize that tight ponytails, braids, and weaves can lead to a specific type of hair loss called traction alopecia. This condition occurs when constant tension on the hair follicles causes them to weaken and, eventually, stop producing hair.

The good news is that traction alopecia is often preventable and even reversible, especially when caught early. This guide will walk you through the causes, offer simple prevention tips, and discuss effective traction alopecia treatment options to help you restore your hair's health.

What is Traction Alopecia?

Traction alopecia is hair loss caused by repetitive pulling or tension on the hair follicles. Unlike other forms of alopecia linked to genetics or medical conditions, this type is a direct result of hairstyling practices. When you consistently pull your hair tight, the strain can inflame and damage the hair follicles. In the early stages, you might notice small bumps on your scalp, soreness, or broken hairs around your hairline. If the tension continues, the follicles can become permanently scarred, making hair regrowth impossible.

This condition can affect anyone, regardless of age or hair type. However, it is more common among individuals who frequently wear tight braids, cornrows, dreadlocks, buns, or hair extensions.

Hairstyles That Can Cause Traction Alopecia

Recognizing the styles that put your hair at risk is the first step toward prevention. While beautiful, these hairstyles can create significant tension on the scalp if done too tightly or worn for too long:

• Tight Ponytails and Buns: High, sleek ponytails are popular, but the constant pulling can strain the follicles along the hairline.
• Braids and Cornrows: Styles that are braided too tightly, especially small, intricate braids, can exert a lot of pressure on the roots.
• Weaves and Extensions: Sew-in weaves and bonded extensions add weight and can pull on your natural hair, leading to breakage and follicle damage.
• Hair Accessories: Tight headbands, clips, and even wearing a helmet for long periods can contribute to tension-related hair loss.
• Chemical Relaxers: While not a hairstyle, chemical treatments can weaken the hair shaft, making it more susceptible to breakage from tight styling.

The key factor is not the style itself, but the amount of tension it creates. If your hairstyle feels uncomfortable or causes headaches, it's a sign that it's too tight.

How to Prevent Traction Alopecia

Prevention is the most effective approach to managing traction alopecia. By adopting gentle hair care habits, you can protect your follicles and keep your hair strong.

1. Loosen Up Your Hairstyles

Give your hair a break from constant tension. Opt for looser ponytails, buns, and braids. When styling, make sure you can comfortably fit a finger between your scalp and the base of the hairstyle. Avoid using elastic bands, which can snag and break hair. Instead, choose fabric hair ties like scrunchies.

2. Alternate Your Looks

Avoid wearing the same tight hairstyle every day. Switching up your look gives different areas of your scalp a rest from the pulling. If you wear braids or weaves, take them out every few weeks to let your scalp and hair recover. When you remove extensions, give your natural hair a few months of rest before reinstalling a new set.

3. Be Gentle with Your Hair

Your hair is most fragile when it's wet, so avoid pulling it into a tight style immediately after washing. When you detangle, use a wide-tooth comb and start from the ends, working your way up to the roots. This minimizes stress on the follicles. Also, try to limit the use of heat styling tools, which can weaken the hair shaft.

4. Choose Lighter Extensions

If you love wearing extensions, choose lightweight options and ensure they are installed by a professional who understands the importance of protecting your natural hair. A skilled stylist will know how to attach them without creating excessive tension.

The Best Traction Alopecia Treatment Options

If you're already noticing signs of hair loss, don't panic. The primary step in any traction alopecia treatment plan is to eliminate the source of the tension immediately. Stop wearing the hairstyles that are causing the problem. In many early cases, this is enough to allow the hair to regrow on its own.

However, if the hair loss is more advanced or you want to support the recovery process, you can take additional steps.

Nourish Your Scalp and Follicles

A healthy scalp is the foundation for healthy hair growth. Massaging your scalp for a few minutes each day can improve blood circulation, which helps deliver essential nutrients and oxygen to the hair follicles. This simple practice can stimulate dormant follicles and encourage new growth.

Introduce a Supportive Hair Serum

Incorporating a targeted hair serum into your routine can provide the nutrients your follicles need to recover. The Revive and Thrive Hair Growth Serum is designed to create an optimal environment for regrowth. Its formula is packed with ingredients that nourish the scalp, strengthen existing hair, and support the hair growth cycle.

By applying a few drops directly to the affected areas and massaging it in, you can deliver a potent blend of nutrients right where they are needed most. Revive and Thrive is a gentle, effective part of a comprehensive traction alopecia treatment, helping you feel proactive about your hair's recovery.

When to See a Professional

If your hair doesn't start to regrow after a few months of gentle care, or if you suspect the damage is severe, it's a good idea to consult a dermatologist. They can assess the extent of the follicle damage and recommend more advanced treatments if necessary.

Reclaim Your Hair's Health

Traction alopecia is a preventable and often treatable condition. By being mindful of your hairstyling choices and embracing gentle care practices, you can protect your hair from unnecessary damage. If you're already experiencing thinning, taking action now can make a significant difference.

Give your hair the freedom to be healthy. Loosen up your styles, nourish your scalp, and consider adding a supportive product like Revive and Thrive Hair Growth Serum to your recovery plan. Your hair will thank you for it.

Sources

• American Academy of Dermatology Association. (n.d.). Traction alopecia: Signs, causes, and treatments. https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/hair-loss/causes/hairstyles
• Mayo Clinic. (2022). Hair loss (alopecia): Symptoms and causes. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hair-loss/symptoms-causes/syc-20372926
• Skin Therapy Letter. (2020). Treatment and prevention of traction alopecia.  https://www.skintherapyletter.com
• National Institutes of Health. (2019). Traction alopecia among African American women: A review. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470434/ 
• Healthline. (2023). What is traction alopecia? Causes and treatments. https://www.healthline.com/health/traction-alopecia