Traction Alopecia

Traction Alopecia

Traction alopecia results from excessive pulling of the hair, generally while braiding. This occurs very frequently in African-American women due to the tight braiding of the hair beginning in childhood. Ultimately, the pulling results in permanent scarring of the hair follicle, which prevents the hairs from regrowing. This condition can be prevented and treated by loosening the hair braids. However, once scarring has occurred, traction alopecia can only be reversed by hair transplantation.