Hair loss is very common among Black women with coily/kinky hair. It's often a taboo subject, yet one that needs to be taken very seriously. There are several types of alopecia. However, the most prevalent type among those with coily/kinky hair is Traction Alopecia, which we'll focus on in this article. But what are its causes, and how can you prevent it? We'll explain all of this in this article and reveal the best hair care routine to combat alopecia!
Alopecia, what is the cause?
Alopecia, also known as traction alopecia, is mainly caused by braids, twists, cornrows, wigs, buns, or lace wig installations. This progressive and increased hair loss is primarily found in people with kinky/coily hair who wear overly tight afro hairstyles.
Although these types of hairstyles offer protection against breakage of the hair lengths, they can sometimes be too heavy, too tight, or both. This pressure then becomes unbearable for the scalp, causing significant traction on the hair fiber located at the root. Over time, the hair bulb weakens.
Thus, the slower the blood circulation, the less the hair follicle will be nourished. The consequence? A significantly reduced production of hair regrowth, creating that sparse visual appearance.
Alopecia is particularly localized at the forehead but also at the temples, where hair is most often pulled. In these areas, the hair is much more fragile, which, in fact, leads to an increasingly receding hairline compared to the root. The gap can be just a few millimeters or several centimeters. It is important to monitor this hair phenomenon because the crown of the head can also be impacted by pulling your hair back too tightly.
If you are experiencing this problem, be careful. You may, in fact, experience inflammation of your scalp leading to the appearance of more or less significant pimples around the hair follicles.
How to prevent alopecia?
Are you tired of thinning hair, constantly being told you have early baldness? We sympathize! So, for you to regain peace of mind and also to successfully prevent alopecia, we're going to give you our best tips!
Adopt good styling habits
As you may know, afro hair is more fragile. Although it offers protection against the sun, it requires particular attention regarding the care it needs. Therefore, the way you treat your hair will be crucial in the fight against alopecia.
To maximize the health of your kinky/coily scalp, several habits will need to be forgotten. But which ones? Here's a list:
- using a hairdryer or flat iron. These devices weaken your hair
- repeated coloring and chemical treatments. These types of applications will accentuate hair loss.
These are two often-neglected points that cause rampant hair breakage in the long term. These natural gestures for normal hair are crucial for kinky/coily hair. Your hair is beautiful, take care of it!
It's no longer a secret that deficiencies in vitamins D, B3, B5, B6, B8, and B12, as well as iron deficiencies, can cause serious hair loss problems. Indeed, B vitamins play a crucial role in your body. When you lack them, many negative consequences can impair the good health of your scalp. Between hair renewal and regeneration of the hair fiber, B vitamins are the most important if you want kinky/coily hair that turns heads.
Vitamin D deficiency also affects people with mixed or black skin more. Why? Simply because the stronger the pigmentation, the less vitamin D the body produces. However, it is a necessary, even essential, element for hair growth and renewal.
Iron deficiency is also largely responsible for your alopecia problems. Indeed, iron is essential for hair growth, as well as for good growth and shine. Among the various deficiencies, iron deficiency is the cause of many other diseases and daily health conditions.
It's possible you have deficiencies; you can add supplements to your diet such as vitamins and trace elements. The best approach is to consult your doctor for a complete check-up to ensure you truly need them, and initially, review your diet.
Beware, it's not always the fault of vitamins; certain emotional and hormonal changes can affect your health and cause alopecia. Therefore, remember to manage your stress and get quality sleep.
Hair routine to combat alopecia
Kinky/coily hair needs attention. Unlike straight hair, this hair type can experience alopecia simply due to improper maintenance. We're going to introduce you to a great hair routine that will help you combat this hair loss.
- Wash your hair with a shampoo designed for kinky/coily and anti-hair loss hair.
- Once a week, apply a hair mask.
- Treat yourself to scalp massages.
- Do olive or jojoba oil treatments
When washing your hair, choose moisturizing and nourishing products as much as possible. Prioritize shampoos based on plant-derived vitamins and proteins.
If, despite everything, the problem persists, consider consulting your doctor. Your alopecia problem might be deeper. They will examine your lifestyle and, if necessary, prescribe more comprehensive examinations with other professionals.
