7 Hairstyles That Can Lead To Hair Loss
We all want to look great – and for many of us, our hair is our crowning glory. There are so many things we can do with it too. Braids, pigtails, perms, waves, feathers, bangs, afros, buns, shags, pony tales… the list is endless and each style suits different people. But did you know that some hairstyles can lead to hair loss? Permanent hair loss? Now that’s a bad hair day.
So what’s the main cause of all that hair loss? Say hello to…
Traction Alopecia
Back in the day, Traction alopecia was nicknamed ‘Ballerina Baldness’ because of the severely pulled bun that ballerinas traditionally wear. It’s a form of hair loss that is attributable to hair follicle trauma caused by hairstyles that involve the pulling and tightening of hair. That constant strain and tension, over time, leads to a gradual but steady hair loss – but, happily, it can be stopped if you eschew the hairstyles that lead to it. If you don’t then you should be aware that the hair loss could wind up permanent.
So which hairstyles lead to traction alopecia?
1. Ponytails/Pigtails
Regularly wearing tight pony/pigtails restricts blood circulation to the hair follicles that can shock the scalp. If this is a hairstyle you wear often then you might notice a receding hairline on the forehead and temples. You might also even notice itchy scalp, hair breakage, and even headaches. If you must wear your hair in a ponytail, wear it with the base close to the neck’s nape.
2. Cornrows
Who doesn’t love a good cornrow? Neat, tight, and beautiful, cornrows can be found on some famous heads – from Alicia Keys to Willow Smith. But the braided hair creates tension on the scalp and could even scar it. Cornrows can lead to hair loss, hair breakage, and – if not cleaned correctly – bacterial/fungal infections that can spell bald spots for some.
3. Dreadlocks
Dreadlocks look great but they’re not so great for hair safety. Over extended periods of time, dreadlocks damage hair follicles and the twisted, matted, tangled hair that forms into dreads results in dandruff, hair loss, and other scalp conditions.
4. Weaves
Weaves are another hairstyle that can lead to traction alopecia – as well as bald spots that are related to glue extensions. Because artificial hair is woven or glued, they can lead to scarring and scalp damage – and as they don’t absorb water well, they can get tangled more often too.
5. Buns
A bun can lead to excess pulling, breakage, and more. And if you sleep with one it makes things even worse as it causes even more friction as you move around in bed during a normal night’s sleep. If you must tie your hair up at night keep it as loose as you can.
6. Wet Updos
Why did your mom tell you not to go to bed with wet hair? It wasn’t just to protect the pillowcases; it’s when your hair is most susceptible to breakage.
7. Other Hairstyles To Avoid
Smooth Chignon
Twisted Headband
Half-Crown Braid
Twisted Low Braid
If you’ve had any of these hairstyles over the years, give your scalp some loving with a regimen of Reviv3. As you well know, Reviv3’s three-part system and Reviv3 Boost repairs your scalp and adds necessary nutrients to allow hair follicles to breathe and grow again. Prevention is always better than cure!