Traction alopecia is caused by repeated pulling or tension on the hair, often from tight hairstyles, braids, or hair extensions. This type of hair loss is preventable and can be reversed if caught early and the cause is eliminated.
Unlike other forms of alopecia, traction alopecia is not caused by genetics, hormones, or autoimmune processes — it is purely mechanical. This makes it unique because it is entirely within your control to prevent and treat.
If a hairstyle hurts or causes headaches, it's too tight — loosen it immediately
Alternate hairstyles regularly — don't wear the same tight style for more than 2-3 weeks
Vary the position of ponytails and buns to distribute tension across different follicles
Choose satin or silk scrunchies over rubber bands or elastic ties
Allow rest periods between protective styles (braids, weaves, extensions)
Avoid combining chemical processing (relaxers, perms) with tight styling
Keep braids and twists loose enough that you can slide a finger underneath
The most important step. Stop wearing the tight hairstyle immediately. Switch to loose, low-tension styles. Hair often regrows within months.
Can accelerate regrowth when combined with removing the tension source. Apply to affected areas twice daily.
If folliculitis (bumps) is present, topical or oral antibiotics may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and allow follicle recovery.
For permanent traction alopecia where follicles are scarred, FUE transplant can restore the hairline. Only after the cause is permanently eliminated.
If caught early, yes — traction alopecia is fully reversible. Once the tension is removed, hair regrows within months. However, if the pulling continues for years, the follicles can become permanently scarred and hair loss becomes irreversible. The key is early intervention: if you notice thinning along your hairline or around braids/extensions, change your hairstyle immediately.
Common culprits include: tight ponytails and buns (especially "sleek" pulled-back styles), tight braids and cornrows, hair extensions and weaves (especially glued or sewn-in), dreadlocks (particularly early-stage tight ones), tight headbands and hair clips, roller sets left in too long, and heavy hair accessories.
If the follicles are not permanently damaged, you should see new hair growth within 3-6 months after removing the tension. Full recovery typically takes 6-12 months. If there's been years of tension, some follicles may not recover. A dermatologist can assess follicle health with a scalp biopsy or trichoscopy.
Yes. While it is more commonly discussed in women, men who wear tight man-buns, cornrows, dreadlocks, or use tight headbands/helmets can develop traction alopecia. Sikh men who tie turbans tightly over bound hair may also be affected. The mechanism is the same regardless of gender.
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