Hair Loss In Black Women: Tips From An Expert

Almost half of black ladies expertise some type of hair loss. However, few medical doctors are acquainted with black hairstyling practices, leaving many women to sort through unhelpful — and even harmful — recommendation on their very own.

Dermatologist Crystal Aguh, one of just a small group of dermatologists across the country specializing in hair loss, offers these tips to assist ladies defend their hair and acknowledge frequent warning signs of hair loss.

 

What steps can I take to stop or sluggish hair loss?

Unfortunately, sure types of hair loss are genetic, and very little can be carried out to stop them. Genetic types of hair loss embody alopecia areata and female pattern hair loss.

But different types of hair loss (including generalized hair shedding) can be introduced on by stress and a poor food plan. Do your best to eat a balanced food plan, and find methods to care for your mental health.

For additional advantage, keep updated along with your routine checkups. Anemia, low ranges of vitamin D and irregular thyroid hormones can all affect the health of your hair. Simple bloodwork from your major care doctor can determine if these situations are contributing to your hair loss.

Black ladies specifically are susceptible to a sort of hair loss known as traction alopecia, which is caused by heat, chemical substances and tight kinds that pull on the hair root, including some braids, dreadlocks, extensions and weaves.

What can I do about traction alopecia?

To defend your hair from traction alopecia and stop additional damage:

• Ask your stylist to create looser braids or dreadlocks.
• If you have braids, take away them after three months.
• If you put on a weave or hair extensions, take away them after eight weeks.
• If you have relaxed or dyed hair, make sure these therapies are utilized by a professional. If you continue to discover breakage or hair shedding, keep away from chemical therapies completely.
• Minimize (or completely keep away from) heat styling, including hair dryers, flat irons and curling irons. These put on out the hair and might result in main hair loss.

What are the warning signs of hair loss?

It can be onerous to inform if you’re losing hair — especially in case your hair loss occurs steadily.

Instead, you could discover that your ponytails don’t feel as thick, or that your scalp is extra visible.

If you’re unsure, ask your stylist (ideally somebody who has recognized you for some time) if they\'ve observed any differences. This is especially necessary for ladies who are experiencing hair loss in areas which are tough to see without another person’s assist, similar to the highest of the scalp.

If you or your stylist suspect hair loss, make an appointment with a dermatologist. Generally, the sooner you act, the extra hair it can save you.