Can Braids Cause Thinning Hair?

If you're experiencing thinning hair, it might be time to give some thought to your hairstyles.

While most thinning hair is caused by some combination of age, hormones, medications, and medical issues, environmental conditions that cause breakage and pull on the hair's roots can also cause or exacerbate it.

Tight Hairstyles Can Damage Hair

Hairstyles in which the hair is placed under extreme tension for long periods can lead to damage of the hair follicles and hair loss. This includes tight braids, ponytails, cornrows, buns, and hair extensions.

The condition even has a name: traction alopecia.

Traction alopecia can damage the hair of children, men, and women who wear hairstyles that include tightly pulling the hair.

Tight braids, buns, and extensions are even more likely to cause thinning hair when they are worn for prolonged periods and when they are done on already damaged or weak hair, such as colored or heat-damaged hair.

Can Traction Alopecia Be Reversed?

If the tight hairstyle is avoided for three months, the condition may be reversed unless the hair follicles have been permanently damaged.

Alternating hairstyles can help mitigate the damage to hair follicles.

Leaving hair down or using a loose updo can be less damaging to the hair. Also, using fewer or no chemicals, heat, and color can help protect your hair.

Learn more about regrowing hair: Hair Loss Treatment Options and here: Hairmax.