Traction Alopecia: Why It Happens, and How to Fix It

Hair loss is typically a gradual process brought on by genetic factors. But sometimes, it can be caused by something as innocuous as your hairstyling habits. Traction alopecia is caused by continuous tension on the hair, often due to wearing tight hairstyles. It typically occurs along the hairline. The good news? Traction alopecia is preventable and treatable. 

If you suspect you may be experiencing traction alopecia or a different type of hair loss, schedule a free consultation with a Bosley expert for a personalized treatment plan – or read on to learn all about traction alopecia and how to fix it. 

What Is Traction Alopecia?

Traction alopecia is a type of hair loss caused by repeated pulling or tension on the hair shafts. This applies stress to the follicles of the hair, causing the hair roots or strands to weaken and shed, resulting in thinning or bald spots. Traction alopecia is often localized at the front or the top of the head, where the hair gets pulled most.

Traction alopecia is just one type of alopecia (or hair loss). It’s non-genetic and reversible.  

Common Causes of Traction Alopecia

Traction alopecia develops gradually, often without noticeable symptoms at first. Common contributors include:

• Tight ponytails, buns, braids, or cornrows
• Hair extensions or weaves worn continuously
• Tight headwear or helmets
• Repeated use of hair ties that pull at the same areas
• Styling practices that consistently stress the same follicles

Over time, this repeated tension can inflame follicles and disrupt normal hair growth cycles.

How to Fix Traction Alopecia

Treatment depends on the severity and duration of follicle damage. At Bosley, the goal is to preserve follicle health, prevent further loss, and explore restorative options when appropriate.

1. Eliminate the Source of Tension

The most important traction alopecia remedy is also the simplest:

• Avoid tight hairstyles
• Rotate styles to reduce repeated stress
• Choose looser, low-tension hair arrangements

Removing tension early can allow follicles to recover naturally.

2. Scalp and Hair Health Evaluation

A professional evaluation helps determine whether follicles are still capable of regrowth or if hair loss has progressed to a permanent stage.

Bosley specialists assess:

• Pattern and duration of hair loss
• Scalp condition
• Follicle viability

This evaluation is critical before considering any long-term solution. Bosley offers a free scalp and hair analysis during your free consultation.

3. Restorative Options for Permanent Hair Loss

Alopecia sufferers can regrow hair, but additional treatment is often necessary. Your Bosley counselor may recommend topical treatments, hair loss medications, or non-surgical solutions to help slow traction alopecia-related hair loss and promote future growth.

 In cases where traction alopecia has caused irreversible follicle damage, a hair transplant may be the best option, depending on candidacy and scalp health.

How Traction Alopecia Differs from Other Hair Loss Types

Not all alopecia behaves the same way. For example:

• Involutional alopecia involves age-related thinning
• Scarring alopecia results in permanent follicle damage
• Genetic hair loss follows hereditary patterns

Traction alopecia is characterized by its unique cause: the weakening of hair follicles due to tension.

Can Traction Alopecia Be Prevented?

Yes, traction alopecia can be prevented. Helpful habits include:

• Choosing looser hairstyles
• Giving hair regular breaks from tension
• Avoiding prolonged use of extensions or tight braids
• Paying attention to early symptoms, like itching, redness, multiple short broken hairs, and thinning hair

The sooner you address your hair loss, the more likely you’ll be able to reverse it.

Take the Next Step Toward Healthier Hair

If you’re noticing thinning along your hairline or suspect traction alopecia, early evaluation matters. Understanding the cause of hair loss is the first step toward protecting your follicles and preserving your hair.

Schedule a consultation with a Bosley specialist to receive a personalized assessment and learn which options align best with your hair goals.

FAQs About Traction Alopecia

What is traction alopecia?

Traction alopecia is a type of hair loss caused by repeated pulling or tension on the hair follicles, usually from tight hairstyles worn over long periods. This constant stress weakens follicles and leads to thinning or bald areas, most often along the hairline or temples.

Is traction alopecia reversible?

Yes, traction alopecia can be reversible if it is detected early and the source of tension is removed. If follicle damage progresses to scarring, hair loss may become permanent and regrowth may no longer be possible.

What is the best traction alopecia treatment?

The best traction alopecia treatment depends on how advanced the condition is. Early cases focus on eliminating tension and improving hair care habits, while advanced cases may require professional evaluation and restorative treatment options.

How long does it take to see improvement from traction alopecia?

Improvement from traction alopecia may take several months once damaging hairstyles are stopped, provided the follicles are still healthy. Timelines vary.

Can traction alopecia be prevented?

Yes, traction alopecia can often be prevented by avoiding tight hairstyles, rotating hairstyles regularly, limiting extensions or braids, and addressing early signs like hairline thinning or scalp discomfort.