Traction alopecia

Traction alopecia

Apr 23, 2021

Traction alopecia is an autoimmune disorder that is attached to hair loss caused by hair being pulled in the same way for a long time. Repeated strain on the hair follicles can pull out strands of hair and even damage the follicles. This causes redness itching and even pus-producing ulcers or infections.

MY EXPERIENCE 

I knew I had traction alopecia in my early twenties though I had no name for it, I noticed I was so different from my friends. I started digging and found out that my mother was also suffering from the same. Meaning it is hereditary. I never accepted the situation immediately but over the years I have found confidence in the fact that my hairline is so beautiful. 💘

To anyone who is reading this and is experiencing the same, the only thing to do is to accept the condition and use the treatment measures below so as to stop from escalating. 💗💘


CAUSES OF TRACTION ALOPECIA 

Traction alopecia can be caused by the following;

a) Certain hairstyles including dreadlocks, cornrows, and tiny ponytails. 

b) Hair extensions and weaves i.e extensions are glued or tightly tied to the base of the hair which may cause tension at the hair roots. 

c) Headwear may cause the hair to thin, esp where the headwear comes into contact with the hair.

 d) Hair accessories including hair slides or grips that are worn the same way every day.

 e) Very long hair can be heavy pulling on the hair follicles. 

f) Hair relaxers and other chemical treatments, these change the structure of the hair shaft in a way that makes hair loss more likely. 

g) Using extensions and relaxers together, this is the most significant risk factor for traction alopecia.

SIGNS OF TRACTION ALOPECIA 

The following are signs of traction alopecia; 

a) A receding hairline typically around the forehead, temples or nape. 

b) Small pimples appear on the scalp or the base of the braids. 

c ) Redness, itching and ulcers on the scalp. 

d) Patches of thin or broken hair in places where the hair has been under strain. 

e) Patches of shiny, scarred skin in more advanced cases.



TREATMENT & PREVENTION 

a) Treatment 

Over the years, I have used the following treatment mechanisms, they include; 

i) Avoid tight hairstyles if possible. 

ii) Avoid or limit chemicals including relaxers.

iii) Change hairstyles every few weeks. 

iv) Try hair growth products like virgin hair, this is so available in the market. 

b) Prevention 

If you are not affected by traction alopecia, then the following preventive measures can be useful, they include; 

i) Loosen or change any hairstyle that is painful. 

ii) Change hairstyles every few weeks. 

iii) Wear thick, loose braids instead of small tight braids. 

iv) Choose fabric hairties instead of elastics. 

v) Keep the hair loose as often as onpossible.

PS: DONT FORGET TO FOLLOW & COMMENT 

THANK YOU!!!! 😝😘

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