What is Alopecia? Alopecia refers to hair loss or the absence of hair in areas where it typically grows. It is a broad term that encompasses various types of hair loss conditions. Alopecia can occur on the scalp, face, or body and may result in partial or complete hair loss. It can affect both men and women of all ages. It is important to learn about the different types of alopecia and their causes to determine the best course of action for regrowth.
The different types of alopecia:
There are different forms of alopecia, including alopecia areata, androgenetic alopecia (pattern baldness), traction alopecia, and others. The causes of alopecia can be multifactorial, so check out and consult with a medical professional for any questions.
- Androgenetic Alopecia: Also known as male or female pattern baldness, it is the most common type of hair loss, characterized by progressive thinning of the hair on the scalp in a specific pattern.
- Alopecia Areata: This alopecia type is an autoimmune condition that causes sudden and unpredictable hair loss in patches on the scalp or other areas of the body. It can occur at any age and may result in complete hair loss or loss of all body hair.
- Alopecia Totalis: This condition involves the complete loss of hair on the scalp.
- Alopecia Universalis: It is a more severe form of alopecia areata that leads to the loss of all body hair, including scalp, eyebrows, eyelashes, and body hair.
- Traction Alopecia: This type of hair loss occurs due to repetitive or excessive tension on the hair follicles, often caused by tight hairstyles, braids, ponytails, or hair extensions. This type of alopecia is common in those who have curly hair.
- Telogen Effluvium: This is a temporary form of hair loss characterized by the excessive shedding of hair. It can be triggered by various factors such as stress, hormonal changes, nutritional deficiencies, medications, or underlying medical conditions.
- Trichotillomania: This is a psychological disorder characterized by an irresistible urge to pull out one's hair, resulting in noticeable hair loss.
- Scarring Alopecia: This is a rare type of alopecia characterized by permanent hair loss due to inflammation and destruction of hair follicles, resulting in scar tissue formation.
Who gets Alopecia?
Both men and women can experience alopecia or hair loss. The specific types and patterns of alopecia may vary between genders, but alopecia can affect individuals of all sexes.
However, traction alopecia is more prevalent among individuals with tightly coiled or textured hair, such as people of African, Afro-Caribbean, or African-American descent. This study shows that ⅓ of the African women tested, experience this type of alopecia. The study goes on to break down the age groups and genders that develop traction alopecia. It emphasizes that those who use tight braids, weaves, cornrows, or other protective hairstyles place extensive pressure on the hair follicles, leading to hair loss.
This is why it is important to let your natural hair relax in between styles to reduce the chances of those with curly hair getting alopecia. It is encouraged to switch protective hairstyles about every 6-8 weeks. Going too long with heavy pressure on the hair follicles can increase the chances of traction alopecia.
Therefore, it is best to change hairstyles regularly and let your hair relax. Talk to a healthcare professional about any questions or concerns you may have about your hair growth.
Alopecia: Hair Regrowth & Recovery
Treatment options for alopecia vary depending on the specific type and underlying cause and may include medications, topical treatments, hair restoration procedures, or supportive therapies. Luckily, Bask & Lather offers hair regrowth products and a guide on how to use them for the best results.
If you are looking for alopecia regrowth and traction alopecia products you've come to the right place. We have everything from hair growth scalp stimulator oil to hair elixir oil and a beard stimulator.
