Hair is a crucial part of self-expression and style, but certain practices can jeopardise its health. Bollywood celebrity hairstylist Amit Thakur, who has worked with stars like Katrina Kaif and Alia Bhatt, recently shared valuable insights about the damage tight ponytails can cause. Through his Instagram profile, which is a treasure trove of hair care advice, Thakur shed light on how this popular hairstyle might be harming your hair in ways you didn’t realise.
The Hidden Risks of Tight Ponytails
In a reel shared on his Instagram, Amit Thakur explained how tying your hair tightly can lead to hair breakage and even hair loss. "The pressure exerted on the roots when pulling hair back tightly damages the hair follicles," he noted. Over time, this damage can weaken the hair structure, causing strands to snap and eventually fall out.
Thakur emphasized that while tight ponytails may be a go-to style for many, the repeated strain on hair follicles can lead to irreversible damage if not addressed.
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Traction Alopecia: A Serious Concern
One of the most alarming risks associated with tight ponytails is traction alopecia, a condition caused by consistently pulling the hair back tightly into styles such as ponytails, braids, or cornrows. Early signs of traction alopecia include:
- A receding hairline, particularly around the forehead, temples, or nape of the neck.
- Thinning hair near the roots.
In severe cases, this condition can result in scalp ulcers and patches of scarred skin, making it harder for hair to regrow. Thakur warned that ignoring these signs could lead to long-term damage, highlighting the importance of addressing the issue early.
Preventing Hair Damage Without Sacrificing Style
The good news is you don’t have to abandon your favorite hairstyles entirely. Thakur shared practical tips for keeping your hair healthy while rocking sleek looks:
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- Loosen the Hairline: Instead of pulling hair tightly, leave some slack at the hairline. This reduces the strain on follicles.
- Use Styling Products: To achieve a polished look without excessive tension, opt for hairsprays or creams that can hold your hairstyle in place.
- Limit Tight Hairstyles: Save tight ponytails or braids for special occasions and avoid wearing them daily.
Let Your Hair Breathe
Amit Thakur stressed the importance of giving your hair a break. “Occasionally doing tight hairstyles is fine, but like your skin, your hair needs to breathe,” he said. Allowing your hair to flow freely or opting for looser styles not only reduces strain on your scalp but also promotes overall hair health.
Bottomline
Tight ponytails might seem harmless, but their long-term effects can be detrimental to your hair health. By following Amit Thakur’s advice, you can protect your locks from unnecessary damage while still looking stylish. Whether you're a fan of ponytails or intricate braids, balance is key to maintaining strong, beautiful hair.
As Thakur suggests, treat your hair with the same care you give to your skin—it deserves to breathe, heal, and thrive.