Essay About Black Hairstyles And Traction Alopeica

New Study Confirms What We All New About Black Hairstyles and Traction Alopeica
"Hair is a cornerstone of self-esteem and identity for many people, but ironically, some hairstyles meant to improve our self-confidence actually lead to hair and scalp damage." Crystal Aguh, M.D., Johns Hopkins University

Researchers from John Hopkins recently published the findings from a review of 19 studies. The findings concluded that there is a strong association between how black woman style their hair and traction alopecia. Traction alopecia is a type of hair loss that occurs when stress is placed on the scalp and hair follicle over time. This condition may be temporary or permanent and is common along the hair line.
In their report, the researchers urged dermatologists to become more aware of styles such as ponytails braids and weaves which are common among black woman and which are all usually done in a manner that creates tension on the hair follicle and scalp. Traction alopecia is believed to be the most common form of hair loss among black woman, with an estimated thirty-three percent of black women suffering from this condition.
The researchers grouped hair styles in 3 categories: high risk, moderate risk and low risk. It is important to note that there was no zero risk category. Styles were placed in
Heat can weaken the hair shaft the researchers claim and so if stressed during this time, alopecia may result. High risk styles may be downgraded to moderate risk when done on unaltered or natural hair. Low risk styles include those that hang freely without tension what naturals would tend to call “out” styles. Loose buns and updos are styles that are unlikely to result in alopecia and the researchers noted that curly hair dos such as moisturizing the hair frequently and using products that contain conditioning agents also reduce the risk of traction