People with afro hair have many options when it comes to styling their hair. From cornrows, to braids, wigs and weaves. Unfortunately, these hairstyles and the products used can cause major scalp problems. Problems such as itching, flaking and even baldness. But these problems can be solved with the right care.
People with afro hair have many options when it comes to styling their hair. From cornrows, to braids, wigs and weaves. Unfortunately, these hairstyles and the products used can cause major scalp problems. Problems such as itching, flaking and even baldness. But these problems can be solved with the right care.
Thinning hair and hair loss is a common problem among people with afro hair, kinky hair or C4 hair. A study on traction alopecia, the name for hair loss caused by pulling, showed that one-third of women with dark skin suffered from traction alopecia. In addition, central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia (CCCA) is also more common among these women. What exactly are these forms of hair loss, and why is it common among people with frizzy hair?
Traction alopecia is hair loss related to repeated trauma to the scalp caused by styling. Not only people with darker skin tones are at risk, but also anyone who has to wear their hair in a style that causes tension, such as women in the army and ballerinas. In addition, there is no age limit for this problem. Even children can develop traction alopecia.
In people who wear really tight braids and ponytails, this alopecia usually appears where the hair can pull the most. Unfortunately, an instinct of people in response to traction alopecia is to try and hide the thinning hair with braids and extensions. This can ultimately worsen the condition and can cause a person to become trapped in a cycle of hair loss.
The first signs of traction alopecia are likely to be pain and small bumps around the hair follicles. If left untreated, these bumps will scar and stop the hair from growing. Braids, extensions and wigs can also put stress on the hair. In addition, naturally curly hair is naturally vulnerable because the sebum (moisture) from the scalp cannot reach the full length of the hair. This means that curly afro hair is prone to breakage and therefore needs extra care and attention. Styling the hair thus requires a lot from the scalp and hair. Problems can be solved by giving the hair the right attention or by letting it rest. In addition, you can use care products, such as mild shampoos, to strengthen the hair.
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What is central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia (CCCA)?
Central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia (CCCA) or hot comb alopecia, is a form of scarring alopecia that occurs mainly in women with dark skin and afro hair. It often starts centrally, in the middle of the scalp and, without treatment, spreads over time to a bald patch. The cause is not fully known and probably has several reasons. One of the most likely causes is the use of straighteners to uncurl and straighten the hair. The heat from these tongs damages the hair, which can lead to hair loss. Other causes can be other forms of excessive heat such as hot combs, hair dryers and curling irons. Traction alopecia is probably also related to this form of hair loss, such as tight braids/curls, weaves, tight ponytails or hair extensions that pull the hair. In addition, the use of chemical relaxers can also damage the hair.
What can you do about this hair loss?
The most obvious measure is, of course, to stop doing things that are harmful to your hair. Or being aware of the consequences of too tight braids and weaves. Wearing your hair looser can make all the difference. If problems persist, it is always wise to see your doctor or speak to a dermatologist who knows about afro hair. We also recommend the use of mild, caring shampoos. The French brand Abyssian is an expert in the field of animal-tested, vegan, SDS-free hair products.
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