Pressure Alopecia

Pressure alopecia is a type of hair loss that occurs as a result of physical pressure on the hair roots. This pressure can be caused by tight hairstyles, such as braids, ponytails, or cornrows, or by wearing tight headwear, such as helmets, hats, or wigs. Over time, this continuous pressure on the hair roots can cause the hair follicles to become damaged and eventually stop producing new hair.

There are several types of pressure alopecia, each with its own characteristic symptoms and causes. Some of the most common types include:

Traction alopecia: This is the most common form of pressure alopecia and is caused by tight hairstyles, such as braids, ponytails, or cornrows. It typically affects the hairline, temples, and crown of the head, and can result in patchy hair loss or complete baldness.
Tinea capitis: Also known as scalp ringworm, this type of pressure alopecia is caused by a fungal infection that can cause hair loss and scaling of the scalp.
Alopecia caused by headwear: This type of pressure alopecia can occur as a result of wearing tight headwear, such as helmets, hats, or wigs. It typically affects the hair at the back of the head and can result in a receding hairline or bald patches.
Alopecia caused by tight headbands: This type of pressure alopecia can occur as a result of wearing tight headbands, such as those used for sports or exercise. It typically affects the hairline and temples, and can result in patchy hair loss or complete baldness.

Causes

There are several causes that can contribute to the development of pressure alopecia, including:

Tight hairstyles: Wearing tight hairstyles, such as braids, cornrows, or hair extensions, for extended periods of time can put significant pressure on the hair follicles. This pressure can cause the hair follicles to become damaged, leading to hair loss.
Genetics: Some people may be more susceptible to pressure alopecia due to their genetics. This can include having a family history of hair loss or having a genetic predisposition to developing certain hair disorders.
Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as lupus, lichen planopilaris, and central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia, can increase the risk of developing pressure alopecia.
Hormonal imbalances: Hormonal imbalances, such as those that occur during menopause or pregnancy, can increase the risk of developing pressure alopecia.
Trauma: Physical trauma, such as a blow to the head, can increase the risk of developing pressure alopecia.
Age: As people age, their hair follicles can become more susceptible to damage, increasing the risk of developing pressure alopecia.
Chemical treatments: Using chemical treatments, such as relaxers or hair dyes, can increase the risk of developing pressure alopecia.
Stress: High levels of stress can increase the risk of developing pressure alopecia.
Nutritional deficiencies: Nutritional deficiencies, such as a lack of iron, biotin, or zinc, can increase the risk of developing pressure alopecia.
Medications: Certain medications, such as chemotherapy drugs, can increase the risk of developing pressure alopecia.

There are several risk factors that can increase the likelihood of developing pressure alopecia, including:

Tight hairstyles: Wearing tight hairstyles, such as braids, ponytails, or cornrows, can put continuous pressure on the hair roots and increase the risk of hair loss.
Wearing tight headwear: Wearing tight headwear, such as helmets, hats, or wigs, can put continuous pressure on the hair roots and increase the risk of hair loss.
Genetics: Some people may have a genetic predisposition to pressure alopecia, making them more susceptible to the condition.
Age: As people age, their hair may become more fragile and susceptible to damage from pressure.
Ethnicity: African Americans are more likely to develop pressure alopecia than people of other ethnicities.

Symptoms

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of pressure alopecia is typically done through a physical examination of the scalp and hair. The following tests and diagnostic methods may be used to diagnose pressure alopecia:

Medical history: The doctor will ask about the patient’s medical history, including any medications they are taking, recent illnesses, and previous hair loss or scalp conditions.
Physical examination: The doctor will examine the scalp and hair for signs of hair loss and damage. They may also check for any redness, scaling, or other signs of inflammation.
Trichoscopy: This is a type of scalp examination that uses a special type of microscope to examine the hair and scalp. Trichoscopy can help the doctor identify the type and extent of hair loss, as well as any underlying scalp conditions that may be contributing to the hair loss.
Pull test: The pull test involves gently tugging on a small section of hair to assess the strength of the hair roots. If the hair easily comes out, it may indicate hair loss.
Scalp biopsy: In some cases, a small sample of scalp tissue may be taken for examination under a microscope. This can help the doctor determine if there is any underlying scalp condition that is contributing to the hair loss.

Treatment

The treatment of pressure alopecia depends on the severity of the hair loss and the stage at which it is diagnosed. In the early stages of pressure alopecia, the hair loss may be reversed by simply changing hairstyles and avoiding tight hairstyles that put pressure on the hair follicles. However, if the hair loss is more advanced and the hair follicles are severely damaged, additional treatments may be necessary.

Changing Hairstyles: As mentioned, one of the first steps in treating pressure alopecia is to change hairstyles that put pressure on the hair follicles. This may involve avoiding tight hairstyles such as braids, cornrows, and tight buns, and opting for loose hairstyles that do not put pressure on the hair.
Medications: In some cases, medications may be prescribed to help treat pressure alopecia. Minoxidil is a common medication used to treat hair loss, including pressure alopecia. Minoxidil is applied topically to the scalp and works by increasing blood flow to the hair follicles, promoting hair growth. Another medication that may be used is finasteride, which is a pill that is taken orally. Finasteride works by blocking the production of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that is known to cause hair loss.
Topical Steroids: Topical steroids may also be used to treat pressure alopecia. These steroids are applied directly to the scalp and can help to reduce inflammation and promote hair growth.
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy: PRP therapy is a relatively new treatment for pressure alopecia. This therapy involves taking a sample of the patient’s blood and processing it to concentrate the platelets. The concentrated platelets are then injected back into the scalp, promoting hair growth and reducing hair loss.
Hair Transplants: In advanced cases of pressure alopecia, hair transplants may be necessary. This surgical procedure involves removing hair follicles from one area of the scalp and transplanting them to the affected area. Hair transplants can be an effective way to restore hair growth in areas that have been severely damaged by pressure alopecia.
Scalp Massage: Scalp massage can help to improve blood flow to the hair follicles, promoting hair growth. Regular scalp massage can also help to reduce stress, which can contribute to hair loss.
Essential Oils: Essential oils such as rosemary, lavender, and tea tree oil can help to promote hair growth and reduce hair loss. These oils can be applied directly to the scalp or added to a carrier oil such as coconut oil.
Vitamins and Supplements: Taking vitamins and supplements such as biotin, iron, and folic acid can also help to promote hair growth and reduce hair loss. These vitamins and supplements can be taken orally or applied topically to the scalp.

It is important to note that treating pressure alopecia may take time and patience. It is also important to see a dermatologist or hair loss specialist to determine the best course of treatment for your specific case.

In addition to these diagnostic tests, there are several steps that can be taken to help prevent and manage pressure alopecia:

Avoid tight hairstyles: Wearing tight hairstyles such as braids, cornrows, or ponytails can put excessive tension on the hair and scalp, leading to hair loss. It is best to avoid tight hairstyles or to choose hairstyles that are not too tight.
Use hair-friendly products: Some hair products, such as gels, mousses, and sprays, can cause hair to become brittle and break easily. It is important to use hair-friendly products that will not damage the hair or scalp.
Protect the hair from heat: Heat from styling tools, such as flat irons and curling wands, can damage the hair and cause it to break. It is best to use heat-protectant products and to avoid styling tools that are too hot.
Massage the scalp: Massaging the scalp can help to improve blood flow and promote hair growth. This can be done using the fingers or a scalp massager.
Eat a balanced diet: A balanced diet that is rich in vitamins and minerals is essential for healthy hair growth. Some of the nutrients that are important for hair health include iron, biotin, and vitamin C.
Avoid excessive use of hair products: Overuse of hair products can clog the hair follicles and prevent hair growth. It is important to use

References