Traction alopecia

Traction alopecia is a form of alopecia, or gradual hair loss, caused primarily by pulling force being applied to the hair. This commonly results from the sufferer frequently wearing their hair in a particularly tight ponytail, braid, or hairstyles.

Pronunciation

Traction alopecia is pronounced as trak-shun alo-pee-sha.

Etymology

The term "traction alopecia" is derived from the Latin word "tractio" which means "pulling", and the Greek word "alopecia" which means "hair loss".

Symptoms

The primary symptom of traction alopecia is gradual hair loss, typically around the forehead and temples, in areas where the hair is pulled tightly. This can be accompanied by itching, scalp redness, scalp tenderness, scaling, and/or ulcers.

Causes

Traction alopecia is caused by chronic tension on the hair. This is most commonly due to hairstyles that pull the hair tightly, such as ponytails, braids, or cornrows. It can also be caused by the use of hair extensions or weaves.

Treatment

Treatment for traction alopecia involves the cessation of any practices that pull on the hair. In some cases, if the traction alopecia is caught early, the hair will regrow on its own. In other cases, treatment may involve medications such as minoxidil or corticosteroids, or possibly hair transplant surgery.

Related Terms

• Alopecia
• Hair loss
• Ponytail
• Braid
• Hairstyle
• Minoxidil
• Corticosteroid

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Traction alopecia
• Wikipedia's article - Traction alopecia

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