What is Traction Alopecia?

Are you seeing less hair or bare patches, especially near where your hair is frequently pulled back or styled tightly? This might indicate traction alopecia, a gradual hair thinning that results from ongoing pulling and tension on your hair roots. 

While hairstyles can be a way to express yourself, consistently tight styles can unfortunately put excessive strain on your scalp, potentially causing damage and eventually, hair loss in the areas under the most tension. Recognizing traction alopecia is the initial step in understanding and managing this avoidable condition to help keep your hair healthy and full.

Here are some common symptoms of traction alopecia:

Gradual thinning: A common sign is the slow thinning of hair, frequently starting around the hairline, temples, and nape, which are areas usually under the most strain.

Small bumps or pimples: You might see small bumps or pimples develop on the scalp, particularly in areas where the hair is under tension.

A widening hair part:  this can occur as hair thins along the part line from the tension.

Broken hairs: Noticeable short, broken strands of hair may be present, particularly in regions with tight hairstyles.

Scalp discomfort: Discomfort like tenderness, itching, or sensitivity on the scalp can be present, especially after wearing tight hair arrangements.

Inflammation or redness: The scalp may appear red or inflamed, particularly in the areas surrounding the affected hair follicles.

Baldness develops: With prolonged tension, distinct areas of hair loss may develop in the regions under the greatest strain.

Receding hairline: Your front hairline might gradually move backward as a result of tight hairstyles pulling on the hair.

Miniaturized hairs: The edges of your hairline might look less defined and have short, broken hairs, giving a “fuzzy” or sparse appearance.