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Conditions

Hair restoration · Hair-loss diagnosis and restoration

Traction alopecia

Understand hair loss caused by repeated tension on hair follicles.

Editorial publication · Medical review pending.

Understand

Traction alopecia is hair loss caused by repeated or prolonged pulling forces on hair follicles.

Possible symptoms

The hairline or most stressed areas thin; pain, itching, redness, bumps and broken hairs can appear before the skin becomes smooth.

Causes and associated factors

Tight braids, ponytails or buns, extensions, weaves, rubbing headwear and the weight of very long hair can create traction.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis links the distribution of loss to hairstyle history and checks whether follicles remain or permanent scarring has developed.

Tests

Dermoscopy can assess activity; biopsy may be offered when the diagnosis or amount of scarring is uncertain.

Course of the condition

Early hair loss may regrow after tension stops; prolonged pulling can destroy follicles and make loss permanent.

Care options

Loosening or stopping the responsible practices is essential; inflammation may need dermatological treatment, and transplantation is considered only for stable scarred loss.

When to consult

Seek help at the first pain, breakage or thinning to prevent irreversible follicle damage.

Urgent help

A very painful, hot, swollen or pus-filled area, or fever, needs prompt medical care.

Questions for your doctor

  • What is causing my hair loss?
  • Are the follicles still active or already scarred?
  • Which medical treatments should be tried or stabilised before a transplant?
  • Can my donor area support a realistic and lasting result?
  • Which scalp signs need prompt medical care?

Continue reading

A procedure linked to a condition does not establish an indication for your individual situation.

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