Hair loss from tight hairstyles (traction alopecia)

Overview

Heavy extensions, tight buns, and chemical relaxers add to the damage.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Thinning along the hairline

Less common

• Scalp bumps or soreness

When to get medical care

Causes

Tight styles.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

• Braids, extensions, tight ponytails

Diagnosis

A clinician looks at the scalp.

Questions you may be asked

• Hairstyles and how often

Treatment

Ease the tension.

Self-care

• Choose looser styles
• Change styles and part lines often
• Avoid styles that hurt or cause bumps
• Limit heat and chemical relaxers

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Minoxidil may help regrowth; ask first.

Prevention

To prevent it:

• Loose styles

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to a dermatologist (skin doctor).

Living with it

• Keep a simple diary of symptoms, triggers, and medicines to bring to visits.
• Bring a list of your medicines and questions to each visit.
• Use gentle, fragrance-free soaps and moisturizers.
• Protect your skin from the sun.
• Long-term illness can affect mood. Tell your doctor if you feel down or anxious.

Back to school, work, or sports

• Most people can keep working or going to school.
• Ask about changes that help, like extra breaks or a flexible schedule. Workers may be covered by the ADA. Students may get a 504 plan.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Some skin medicines, like isotretinoin and retinoid creams, aren't safe in pregnancy.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

For caregivers

• Go to visits when you can and take notes.
• Keep a list of medicines, allergies, and doctors in one place.
• Learn the warning signs that need fast care.
• Take breaks and ask for help. Caregivers need care too.

Outlook

Reversible early.

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Hair loss from tight hairstyles (traction alopecia)