Do women of color lose their hair? It may be the case more often than many people realize. The fact is, all people, both men and women, of all ethnic backgrounds, can lose hair. Sometimes, there are conditions that impact one ethnicity more than others. In other cases, you may lose your hair for the same reasons as anyone else. However, many women of color do not recognize or do not discuss their hair loss. That may be a problem. Take a closer look at what your hair loss is and why it may be occurring. You may be surprised by what is really happening here.
What is Traction Alopecia
There are many reasons women of color lose their hair – just like anyone else. However, there is growing evidence that traction alopecia is a common and even growing problem in women of color. First, what is it? Alopecia is a term used to describe hair loss, more specifically short-term or long-term hair loss often in patches or significant balding. Traction is a form of alopecia related to the pulling on the hair. Traction, or pulling, causes strain on the hair follicles and this creates a higher risk that the hair will come out. And, because it takes hair about three months to cycle and regrow, this can create significant hair loss in some situations.
Why do women suffer from traction alopecia? A key reason for this is styling. Because this condition is often the result of exerted pressure on the follicles and hair, it is nearly always due to a preventable reason – the way you style your hair. In women of color, styles such as tight braids and extensions are putting a lot of pressure on the hair. This causes the hair to fall out.
Style Trends Can Be a Concern
Wigs and hair extensions are one of the biggest trends in hair today for women of color. There is nothing quite like having an incredible new look whenever you want to. Women still want to maintain their hair in as beautiful as a state as possible, but more women are stepping away from styling their own hair and putting more focus on extensions, tight ponytails, and braided hair styles. This is where the problem lies.
What Can Be Done About It?
There is some good news here. Many women will be able to see their natural hair grow back even if they have traction alopecia right now. This type of condition generally will reduce itself when the underlying cause of the hair loss stops – in this case the pulling and exertion from pulling the hair and with extensions. If you stop doing this, and allow your hair to continue to grow and heal, it may take a few months but it can lead to impressive results.
Can you go cold turkey and stop using these methods? You may want to simply enjoy your natural hair more so. Keep in mind that the over use of relaxers can be just as damaging as using braids and wigs. However, women who can comprehensively let go of these trends and focus on growing healthy hair in its natural form will see significant improvement.
If you are noticing a lot of thinning or significant hair loss, talk to your stylist about it. Discuss the cause. Talk about the best way for you to style your hair to avoid this risk and concern. Many women will be able to see their hair grow back, but it takes a significant effort at reducing the use of techniques known for causing this type of damage.
For women of color, hair loss is a growing problem. It does not have to be, though. With the right support, you may be able to improve your hair significantly. To learn more, contact the team at Unique Hair Concepts for a free, private consultation.
