What Causes Traction Alopecia?
While some people jokingly commented that Naomi’s hair loss was the result of karma, traction alopecia is caused by the stress and tension from hair extensions and other styles that pull the hair such as braids, cornrows, dreadlocks, and ponytails.
Many women make the mistake of wearing their extensions for months at a time. It is recommended that they should only be worn for 3-4 weeks before they are removed.
If the condition is caught early on, hair can be restored by growing back. With more advanced phases of traction alopecia, hair does not grow back because the shafts were pulled so tightly causing trauma to the follicles as well as inflammation. Infections, pustules, and papules also manifest from the follicular damage.
A few indications of traction alopecia can include:
- Pain after the extensions are put in place
- Soreness in the scalp due to extensions or wearing a ponytail
- Extensions break off
Other Celebrities With Traction Alopecia
Having perfect-looking hair is an important part of being camera-ready in the entertainment industry. This is why extensions are depended upon by many models and celebrities, regardless of their ethnicity. However, most people are not really aware that loss of hair can be a consequence of prolonged use.
Other famous celebrities with traction alopecia possibilities based on photographs that show apparent evidence of traction alopecia include:
- Victoria Beckham
- Rihanna
- Britney Spears
What Can Be Done To Fix Traction Alopecia
If the condition is discovered early and the individual works with their dermatologist, the initial signs of traction alopecia can be reversed. Antibiotics and cortisone can be administered to stop infections and inflammation that may be damaging the hair follicles.
Hair loss from advanced-stage traction alopecia may have some potential for being restored through transplant procedures.