subject: Traction Alopecia - The Most Common Cause of Hair Loss in African American Women [print this page] Traction Alopecia - The Most Common Cause of Hair Loss in African American Women
Traction Alopecia is the single most common cause of hair loss in African American women. It is not limited to the general public, supermodel, Naomi Campbell was seen photographed a few months ago suffering from it. Essentially defined, Traction Alopecia is a condition in which hair loss results from damage to the dermal papilla and the hair follicle caused by constant pulling or tension of hair over extended periods of time. It is most often seen in African American women who wear tight braids, extensions, or weaves and can occur more in children, adolescents, and young adults. If detected early enough, the condition is treatable, but if realized too late, it can cause baldness.
This common cause of hair loss in African American women generally occurs around the frontal and temporal regions of the scalp. However, some hairstyling methods can cause the alopecia to occur in other areas of the scalp. Chemical treatments that are often applied to African American women's hair, like relaxers, bleaches, or straighteners, can also be a cause of Traction Alopecia. The most effective manner of combating it is early detection. A woman who is diagnosed with this condition should immediately change their hairstyle and the types of chemical treatment processes that they use on it. You will know if you have Traction Alopecia, as your hair line will start to thin and recede, and also like Naomi Campbell the hair at the side of your head. Furthermore, a young woman should take the time to consult a dermatologist about the most effective methods of preventing further effects of traction alopecia.
Even though Traction Alopecia is the most common cause of hair loss in African American women, there is not, unfortunately, any treatment available to reverse its effects if the damage caused is too great. The only effective means of reversing this condition is to stop putting large amounts of strain on the the hair - especially in the affected area. Unfortunately if your hair has been pulled for many years and has now caused a bald patch, this means the hair follicles no longer produce hair and you have permanent hair loss. In these instances your only option to restore it is via a hair transplant.
