Researchers from Johns Hopkins School of Medicine in Baltimore have recently completed a study that has suggested a strong association between certain tight hairstyles and the loss of hair. The condition is called traction alopecia, which is consistent hair loss because of damage to the hair follicle from being tightly pulled. It is particularly noted in African American women, in whom tightly-pulled hair styles are common.
Tight ponytails, weaves, braids, extensions and dreadlocks can all lead to more hair loss. Hair that has been chemically straightened and then pulled back tightly is at an even higher risk.
The researchers found that at least one-third of African American women suffer from traction alopecia. During the study they found that when the hair is pulled back tightly for a long period of time it places the hair follicles under constant pressure, which leads to permanent damage.
Although they did not prove any cause-and-effect relationship between hair loss and hairstyles, there was a high enough association that the researchers encourage switching to looser types of hairstyles that do not lead to tension at the hair roots, as traction alopecia can be stopped or reversed, or even prevented.
Dr. Crystal Aguh is an assistant professor of dermatology at Johns Hopkins, who said, “Hair is a cornerstone of self-esteem and identity for many people but ironically, some hair styles meant to improve our self-confidence actually lead to hair and scalp damage.”
According to the study authors, the findings of their research indicate that dermatologists need to learn more about styles that can potentially damage the hair, and advise patients about the risks. “We have to do better as care providers to offer our patients proper guidance to keep them healthy from head to toe,” said Aguh.
The study findings were published April 27 in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology.