health
Popular Hairstyle Can Cause Thinning and Hair Loss
Dermatologists warn that frequently wearing a tightly pulled ponytail can lead to thinning and hair damage, especially in women with fine and treated hair.
TL;DR
- Tight ponytails, braids, and buns can cause traction alopecia, a type of hair loss due to constant tension on hair roots.
- Symptoms include scalp sensitivity, short broken hairs, and thinning at the hairline, often noticed only when damage is significant.
- High ponytails continuously pull hair back, stressing the same scalp area and potentially damaging hair follicles with daily wear.
- Fine, bleached, or chemically treated hair is more susceptible to breakage and damage from these hairstyles.
- Wearing hair in tight styles while wet, when it's more fragile, exacerbates damage and breakage.
- Using thin hair ties with metal parts can break hair; soft satin or fabric ties are better alternatives.
- Silk and satin pillowcases reduce friction during sleep, helping to maintain hair health.
- While complete avoidance isn't necessary, moderation is key: vary hairstyles, avoid excessive tightness, and give hair breaks.
- Persistent hair thinning, breakage, or scalp sensitivity warrants consultation with a dermatologist or trichologist.
- Hair loss can also be influenced by hormonal changes, stress, diet, iron deficiency, thyroid issues, menopause, and genetics.