Naomi’s hairline appeared to be completely bald underneath her wig. Years of wearing weaves, over processing, glues, and pulling most likely caused Naomi’s traction Alopecia, also known as hair loss due to tight hairstyles.   Many women in my family, who enjoyed super straight perms, micro-braids, and tight hair weaves are now resorting to wigs because their hair is literally damaged beyond repair.

DAMAGE FROM TIGHT BRAIDS AND OTHER STRENUOUS HAIRSTYLES

A common scarring hair loss particularly among Black women is called traction alopecia.

You’ve seen it time and time again.  Bald spots that occur from wearing tight braids, tightly pulled back updo’s and even abuse from wearing weaves.

Traction alopecia is a common condition from scalp scars that occurs when hair is pulled too tightly for an extended period of time. Eventual hair loss occurs because of the tension on the hair follicles that are beneath the skin. It is most often seen in women of African descent or others who braid and style their hair tightly. If this type of styling is repeated for a period of time without any “braid breaks” over months or years, hair loss can become permanent and will not regrow in the affected areas. Traction alopecia is most apparent in areas where the hair was pulled the tightest which is usually around the forehead, temple and nape area. The appearance will seem to be more like breakage in the beginning but over time, the hairline will start to recede due to the scarring that has occurred to the scalp in that area.

Gh Hair Tips to avoid hair loss around your edges=

1. Braiding your hair TIGHT doesn’t make your hair extensions last longer, when your braids are extremely tight over time you will experience hair loss.

2. You should never get a Tightening! this method only tangles your new growth and causes hair loss.

3. Hair glues used for hair extensions should be properly removed from your hair, take your time and don’t pull your hair weave out…

4. The maximum time you should only keep your hair extensions in is 3 months,  shampoo and condition your hair regularly.

5. Use a silk or satin bonnet at night to protect your hair.

Credit: http://www.soulfulbeauty.com