HAIR LOSS TREATMENT IN TRACTION ALOPECIA

Hair loss treatment in cases of traction alopecia will only be successful if the cause is established early. Traction alopecia or mechanical hair pulling result in gradual hair loss due to excessive force applied to the hair. If not managed early, it can lead to scarring alopecia.

Alopecia linearis frontalis or ALF is marginal hair loss while chignon alopecia is the term used when hair loss is caused by extremely tight hair buns. Because of this, traction alopecia is also called ballerina baldness because it is common in ballet dancers who frequently pull back their hair to form a tight hair bun.

Other causes of traction alopecia are tight ponytails and pigtails, braids, cornrow hair styles, and the current fad of wearing hair weaves.
When these hairstyles are routinely used, continuous hair traction causes stress on the hair and scalp, leading to hair shedding. Eventually, there can be hair loss on the affected areas of the scalp. Because of this, the hair follicles on the scalp can become damaged. When this happens, hair stops growing and hair loss can become permanent.

In African-American women, traction alopecia is one of the common causes of hair loss. Hairstyles like dreadlocks, extension braids, French twist, box braids, zigzag braids, invisible braids, and micro braids can put too much stress on the hair roots.

Individuals that may be prone to traction alopecia are Japanese women with traditional hairdo, Sikh men in India, and even some nurses who frequently use pins to secure their caps. As expected, more women are affected than men.

If the reason behind hair loss is determined to be because of mechanical traction, change in hair styling habits should be made as soon as possible. Using different hairstyles especially looser styles help prevent further hair loss and follicle destruction. Bypass use of styling products as well as harsh shampoos. Instead, switch to herbal-based ones like Nisim Shampoo which is not only kinder to the hair but is also rich in B vitamins and amino acids to help the hair recover faster.

Use good quality combs and brushes that prevent tangles. Skip hair colouring, bleaching, straightening, and curling to prevent further weakening of the hair and roots.