Alopecia Areata Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

Struggling with hair loss? Learn what causes Traction Alopecia, how to spot the symptoms early, and explore proven treatments that help regain hair.

Check My Symptoms

Traction Alopecia is hair loss caused by constant tension on the hair, such as that created by an overly tight ponytail, plaiting, or using too tight rollers to style the hair. Pulling on the hair over a long period of time results in the gradual shrinking of the hair follicle, and so the hairs produced become finer and finer.

Home
9
Hair Loss Conditions
9
Traction Alopecia

What happens in Traction Alopecia?

Traction Alopecia results from consistent tension on the hair, often due to tight hairstyles like braids or ponytails. This tension damages hair follicles, leading to hair thinning and loss, particularly around the hairline and temples. Early detection and adjustments to hair care practices can help mitigate the condition. Consulting a trichologist for tailored advice is crucial.

See Hazel’s progress

We cured Hazel’s severe Traction Alopecia issue within 14 months to leave her with a full head of hair once again. Learn how we helped.

Hazel - black hair loss. Recovery after 14 months

Successful treatment: read Angela’s story

Discover how we helped Hazel recover from her Traction Alopecia. Learn how we helped.

Black hair loss - traction issues treated

Successful treatment: read Julia’s story

Discover how we helped Julia recover from her Traction Alopecia issues. Learn how we helped.

What are the symptoms of Traction Alopecia?

If you place constant tension on your hair and are experiencing any of the following symptoms, you may be suffering from the condition.

Itching and dandruff
Cicatrisation (scarring) of the new hair follicle and permanent hair loss
Patchy areas of hair loss
Perifollicular erythema, scales, and pustules on scalp.

Key Facts About Traction Alopecia

The condition is more prevalent in women, particularly in Black Afro-Caribbean and East Indian women.
Traction Alopecia is also known as traumatic alopecia.
The two types of traction alopecia are marginal and nonmarginal.

“Traction Alopecia is treatable with the right approach. By identifying and modifying hair care practices, such as avoiding tight hairstyles and using gentle treatments, women can experience significant improvement. Consulting with a trichologist ensures a personalised treatment plan, helping to restore confidence and promote healthy hair growth.”

Gary Heron, Chief Trichologist

Can Traction Alopecia Be Cured?

Traction alopecia can be reversed if caught early by stopping tight hairstyles and reducing tension on the scalp. However, if the condition continues over time, permanent follicle damage can occur, making hair loss irreversible.

In early stages, hair can regrow with gentle hair care and topical treatments like minoxidil. If hair follicles are scarred, regrowth is unlikely, and options like hair transplants may be needed.

Preventing further damage by avoiding tight hairstyles and caring for the scalp is the best approach.