Traction alopecia is a type of hair loss that occurs as a result of constant pulling or tension on the hair roots, commonly seen in incorrectly applied Hair Extensions or over use of Hair Extensions or braiding. This pulling can be caused by a variety of factors, including tight hairstyles, hair extensions, and hairpieces.

One of the most common causes of traction alopecia is the use of tight hairstyles, such as braids, cornrows, and ponytails. These styles put a lot of pressure on the hair roots, which can lead to hair loss if left in place for long periods of time.

Another common cause of traction alopecia is the use of hair extensions and hairpieces. These items are often attached to the hair with glue, clips, or other methods that put a lot of tension on the hair roots. This tension can lead to hair loss if the extensions or hairpieces are not removed or adjusted regularly.

Traction alopecia is more common in women, especially women of African descent, but it can also affect men. Some of the signs of traction alopecia include thinning hair, bald spots, and patchy hair loss.

The good news is that traction alopecia is usually reversible if it is caught early. If you suspect that you have traction alopecia, it is important to see a dermatologist or a hair specialist. They will be able to diagnose the condition and recommend a treatment plan.

Treatment may include changing hairstyles, avoiding tight hairstyles and hair extensions, and using scalp-nourishing products. In some cases, medication may also be prescribed to help promote hair growth.

In summary, traction alopecia is a type of hair loss caused by constant pulling or tension on the hair roots. It is often caused by tight hairstyles and hair extensions, but it can also be caused by other factors. If you suspect that you have traction alopecia, it is important to see a dermatologist or hair specialist for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Traction alopecia and Hair Extensions

Traction alopecia is a type of hair loss that can occur as a result of constant pulling or tension on the hair roots. One of the common causes of this condition is the use of hair extensions. Hair extensions are often attached to the hair with glue, clips, or other methods that put a lot of tension on the hair roots. This tension can lead to hair loss if the extensions are not removed or adjusted regularly. The hair around the hairline, temples, and nape area are the most affected by this condition. It’s important to note that if you have hair extensions or plan to have them, to be mindful of the tension they put on your hair, and to seek out a stylist that has experience with hair extensions and hair health.Keep Exploring Hair Loss

Start With Understanding

If you're experiencing irregular areas of hair loss, broken hairs or changes in density and aren't sure what's causing them, you don't need to diagnose yourself from photographs online. In fact, I'd rather you didn't.

Start with understanding what you're seeing. Look at the pattern and the timeline. Examine the hair and scalp. Ask better questions. And when the evidence points beyond the hair itself, bring the appropriate professionals into the conversation.

Hair loss tells us that something has changed, but it doesn't always tell us exactly what changed. That's where observation, assessment and the right questions become so important.

Because before we can decide what to do about hair loss, we need to understand what we're actually looking at.

Keep Exploring Hair Loss

Trichotillomania is only one possible explanation for hair loss. Different hair-loss conditions can look surprisingly similar from the bathroom mirror, and sometimes more than one thing is happening at the same time.

→ Explore All Types of Hair Loss

You can learn more about androgenetic alopecia, telogen effluvium, alopecia areata, traction alopecia, scarring alopecia, hormonal influences, nutritional factors and other patterns in my Hair Loss Library.

Concerned About Your Own Hair?

You don't need to determine what type of hair loss you have before reaching out. That's part of what an assessment is designed to help us understand.

My Comprehensive Trichology Assessment looks at the pattern and timeline of your hair loss, along with your scalp, hair growth, hair fibre, hair-care practices, and relevant context. The goal isn't to squeeze you into a one-size-fits-all answer. It's to understand the bigger picture, identify what may deserve further investigation and determine the most appropriate next steps for you.

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Related Reading

• Androgenetic Alopecia + Pattern Hair Loss

• Hormones + Hair Loss

• Nutrition + Hair Health

• Telogen Effluvium

• Trichoscopy

Educational information only. This article is not intended to diagnose or treat trichotillomania or any other medical or mental health condition. If you're experiencing recurrent hair pulling that is causing hair loss, distress or interfering with your daily life, speak with an appropriate healthcare or mental health professional.