Hair Styling Tip - Am I Risking Hair Loss By Chemically Treating My Hair?

Are you risking hair loss? Yes. Will you lose hair? It depends.

Let’s be clear: anytime you apply chemicals or pull your hair into tight styles (like braids), you risk damage to your follicles. And this damage takes the form of breakage and shedding. It’s called traumatic alopecia, and there are three kinds:

Traction alopecia results from regular pulling of hair from rollers, braiding, and in some cases, weaves and extensions. It will take the form of thinning hair around the ears and the forehead. When you see this, stop using whatever styling method is causing the damage immediately, because it can permanently deform your hair follicles.

Chemical alopecia is damage done by home perms or relaxers. The chemicals destroy the hair shaft and irritate the skin on your scalp. You'll see thinning hair and perhaps even bald spots on your scalp. See a dermatologist immediately to prevent irreversible damage to the hair follicles.

Follicular degeneration, the gradual destruction of hair follicles through excessive use of pomades and hot combs and irons, is the worst of the three. Hair loss will start at the crown and progress from there, and it's an irreversible condition.

You can reduce your risk of traumatic alopecia by following these steps. African-American women should be especially careful to protect their hair from traumatic alopecia.

1. Apply chemicals to the hair, not on the scalp.
2. Use mild relaxers at home.
3. Wrap hair loosely, to minimize tension at the root.
4. Wear large, loose braids.
5. Give your hair a break from braids every two weeks.
6. Avoid products with mineral oil or petroleum.
7. When using any type of heat on the hair, protect it with the use of pure silicone products.

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