The nation’s love of updos is well known. These chic and convenient hairstyles are perfect for the office, a trip to the gym, or wowing at special events. Even men are getting in on the action, with top knots and man buns much-loved styles. That pulled back do however can wreak havoc with your hairline.
Traction alopecia is a widespread condition, and it’s not just in the UK where hairlines are receding because of our penchant for updos. According to a report from the National Alopecia Areata Foundation, some 6.8 million people suffer from traction alopecia in the US.
If you’re finding that your hairline is receding, you’re certain to have your own questions about this common condition. Here we answer the most common queries in our guide to traction alopecia.
Traction alopecia is hair loss and thinning caused by persistent, prolonged and repetitive tension on the hairline and its follicles. The pulling back of the hair causes follicles to become acutely inflamed. Over time this causes the follicles to become damaged, often beyond repair.
Traction alopecia differs from other hair loss conditions. Unlike alopecia areata – which causes distinctive bald spots on the scalp – traction alopecia is not the result of inherited traits or diminished immunity. It is in fact caused by lifestyle factors, with tight hairstyles primary culprits.
As well as the obvious hair loss and thinning along the hairline, traction alopecia causes intense itchiness, pimples, redness, and scarring.
The affected areas of the scalp may also be particularly shiny. Whilst patches of thin, broken hair are likely to remain where the hair has been put under strain.
With early diagnosis, the effects of traction alopecia are temporary. If you persistently rely on tight, pulled back hairstyles over time, however, the impact on hair follicles can become permanent.
The risk and damage caused by traction alopecia increases with age as follicles become naturally weaker, but the condition can temporarily or permanently affect people of all ages.
Upon diagnosis, you should avoid putting unnecessary tension on the hair. Steer clear of tight hairstyles, hair extensions and weaves, chemical hair treatments (such as relaxers), and even the use of tight headwear.
There are several hairstyles you should avoid if you have noticed and are looking to relieve symptoms of traction alopecia. Here the British Skin Foundation shares their definitive list:
“Hairstyles often associated with traction alopecia are tight ponytails (causing hair loss at the front and side margins of the scalp), tight buns (causing hair loss at the sides and back of the scalp), as well as the attachment of weaves or hair extensions. Tight braids (such as cornrows and dreadlocks) are also common causes of traction alopecia with hair loss being seen between the braids.”
In addition to avoiding the tight hairstyles that put tension on follicles, treatments are available to stimulate hair growth. Steroids can be prescribed and applied topically to relieve the itchiness and redness commonly associated with traction alopecia.
Many traction alopecia sufferers may want to take steps to conceal hair loss and thinning as their hair regrows. If you are suffering from early-stage traction alopecia, looser, curly hairstyles offer beautiful and easy ways to make hair loss less noticeable.
Purchasing a high-quality wig from us will keep your traction alopecia under wraps and safeguard scalp health so you can embrace a confident, full-bodied look throughout your recovery.
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