Traction alopecia is a form of gradual hair loss along the hairline caused by too-tight braiding, weaves and styling. Naomi Campbell and Rihanna have both suffered from it, but the good news is it’s often reversible. Here, Dr. Reginald Mitchell from Organic Root Stimulator tells how to get to the root of the problem.
Use a scalp scrub
A scalp exfoliator will help invigorate your scalp while improving circulation by increasing oxygen to the area.
Give your hair ‘rest’
Avoid wearing a weave for more than six weeks at a time, and try to leave at least a week of ‘rest time’ in between weaves.
Get loose
Ask your stylist for loose cornrows or braids, rather than letting them loosen over time.
Keep your health in check
Remember: other aspects of your life like emotional stress and medication can also lead to hair loss, so make sure you sleep well and eat a balanced diet.
Take the slack
Leave a little slack between your temple and ponytail to reduce tension.
Don’t sleep on it
Don’t go to bead with styled hair – always undo your ‘do before bed so that your scalp has time to recover.
Amp up the moisture
Condition hair daily with hair fertiliser to add much-needed moisture to the scalp.
Comb it out
Instead of combing out matted or product-slicked hair when dry, dampen , lather on conditioner, cover with a shower cap and leave for 20 minutes.
Tackle knots
A wider-toothed cob will do less damage to your bonds and scalp as you smooth out tangles.
Got braiding woes? We’ve got products to help care for your style, here.
