Hair loss is a common concern among women of all ethnicities, and it can affect Black women more and more. Black women may face specific types of hair loss, such as traction alopecia and central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia.
Traction alopecia is a common form of hair loss in Black women that is caused by heat, chemicals, and tight hairstyles that pull at the hair root, including certain braids, dreadlocks, extensions, and weaves. These practices can lead to inflammation in the hair follicles and subsequent hair loss.
CCCA, on the other hand, is the most common form of scarring alopecia in Black women. The exact cause is unknown, but it has been associated with certain hairstyles and hair care practices. CCCA primarily affects the central (crown) part of the scalp, and the hair loss usually occurs gradually in a centrifugal or circular pattern.
It’s important for individuals experiencing hair loss to consult with a healthcare professional, dermatologist, or trichologist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment options. They may recommend lifestyle modifications, changes in hair care practices, medical treatments, or other interventions based on the underlying cause of the hair loss.
