Traction Alopecia
Traction alopecia is a type of hair loss caused by chronic, sustained pulling of the hair. It results from repeated mechanical tension on the hair follicles — usually due to tight hairstyles such as a tight ponytail, braids, hair extensions, regular use of wigs, or accessories that pull on the hair over time.
Traction Alopecia
Traction alopecia is a type of hair loss caused by chronic, sustained pulling of the hair. It results from repeated mechanical tension on the hair follicles — usually due to tight hairstyles such as a tight ponytail, braids, hair extensions, regular use of wigs, or accessories that pull on the hair over time.
Traction Alopecia
Traction alopecia is a type of hair loss caused by chronic, sustained pulling of the hair. It results from repeated mechanical tension on the hair follicles — usually due to tight hairstyles such as a tight ponytail, braids, hair extensions, regular use of wigs, or accessories that pull on the hair over time.
The prolonged tension weakens the hair follicles, causes microscopic inflammation around them, and may ultimately lead to permanent hair loss if not treated in time.
Risk factors
- Tight hairstyles: braids, a tight ponytail, a "high ponytail", dreadlocks
- Regular use of hair extensions or add-ons
- Tight grooming habits with clips, pins or strong headbands
- Prolonged use of glued-on or sewn-in wigs
- A higher prevalence among women and among people who practise certain cultural or religious hairstyles
Signs & symptoms
- Gradual recession of the hairline — especially in the temple and forehead area
- Fragile, thinning hair in areas exposed to tension
- Redness, itching or a sensation of pain in the scalp where the hairs are pulled
- The appearance of short or broken hairs at the edges of the area
- In early stages — the hair can still regrow if the pulling factor is reduced
- In advanced stages — scarring damage to the follicles may develop (a tiny scar around the hair follicles), which prevents regrowth
Diagnosis
The diagnosis is made by a dermatologist using:
A conversation and medical history (hairstyle habits, duration)
A clinical and dermoscopic examination to detect signs of inflammation or scarring
Sometimes a biopsy for confirmation in cases of suspected advanced scarring hair loss
Treatment
The treatment depends on the stage of the condition and the degree of damage caused to the hair follicles.
- In the early stage:
- Stopping the pulling factor — switching to looser hairstyles
- Topical treatments to preserve and strengthen the follicles
- PRP and mesotherapy treatments — may encourage regrowth and improve scalp health
- In advanced stages:
- If scarring damage has occurred — the hair will not regrow naturally
- Hair transplantation becomes a treatment option for restoring the area
Prevention
Choosing loose hairstyles that are not too tight. Changing the hairstyle frequently, so as not to apply repeated tension to the same area. Avoiding prolonged or overly tight use of extensions and wigs. Early treatment of hair loss or scalp redness.
In summary
Traction alopecia is a condition that is preventable in most cases if the signs are identified early and the risk factors are reduced. Individually tailored treatment with a dermatologist can halt the process and sometimes even reverse it. At an advanced stage, advanced options for aesthetic restoration exist, including hair transplants.
Frequently asked questions
Choosing loose hairstyles that are not too tight. Changing the hairstyle frequently, so as not to apply repeated tension to the same area. Avoiding prolonged or overly tight use of extensions and wigs. Early treatment of hair loss or scalp redness.
You can book a personal consultation with Dr. Rimma Laufer Britva in Kfar Saba via the website form or a WhatsApp message. The consultation includes an accurate diagnosis and a personal treatment plan.
