When it comes to hairstyling, different people have different choices. Starting from the basics, while some individuals like letting their hair loose, others prefer to tie them up in a tight ponytail or a bun. In fact, in recent times, slick ponytails have become a thing, with celebrities like Selena Gomez, the Kardashians, and the Jenner sisters adopting them with style. However, the real question remains: Are slicked-back, tight ponytails good for your hair health?
Speaking with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Kuna Ramdas, Senior Dermatologist, Kamineni Hospitals, LB Nagar, Hyderabad, answered and shed light on the same.
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Can Ponytails Cause Hair Loss?
Tying your hair can help keep it out of the face, reducing irritation and promoting comfort during physical activities. Additionally, ponytails are a convenient and stylish way to manage and protect hair, preventing tangles and breakage.
However, Dr Ramdas shared that tying up hair into tight ponytails can lead to hair loss associated with traction alopecia.
The American Academy of Dermatology suggests that anyone who frequently wears tight, pulled-back hairstyles can develop hair loss. These include:
- Buns, ponytails, and up-dos that are tightly pulled
- Cornrows
- Dreadlocks
- Hair extensions or weaves
- Tightly braided hair
The health body added, “Wearing rollers to bed most of the time can also lead to hair loss, so dermatologists recommend styling your hair this way only on special occasions.”
Understanding Traction Alopecia
Dr Ramdas said, “Traction alopecia is a type of hair loss caused by constant pulling or tension on the hair follicles. This condition is often associated with hairstyles that exert prolonged stress on the hair shaft and follicles.”
He explained, “When hair is pulled tightly, it can lead to a condition known as mechanical trauma, where the constant tension damages the hair follicles. This damage can cause the hair shaft to break or lead to inflammation, disrupting the normal growth cycle of the hair. Over time, if the tension persists, it can result in permanent hair loss in the affected areas.”
According to the doctor, one common culprit is tying the hair tightly into ponytails, braids, or other styles that cause repeated pulling on the hair.
Research suggests traction alopecia is prevalent in women of African descent who have tight and curly spiral hair.
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Benefits Of Letting Hair Loose
As per the doctor, letting hair loose can prevent traction alopecia. This is especially recommended at night or during periods of relaxation, as it allows the follicles to experience minimal tension.
He added that this can promote a healthier environment for hair growth and reduce the risk of traction alopecia.
Hair-Care Practices To Follow
To prevent traction alopecia and promote optimal hair health, we should adopt mindful hair care practices. These include:
- Steer clear of tight hairstyles that exert excessive tension on the hair, opting instead for looser styles to minimise the risk of traction alopecia
- Using hair-friendly accessories, such as scrunchies or soft bands
- Incorporating regular scalp massages to enhance blood circulation to the hair follicles fosters a healthier scalp environment
- Maintaining overall hair hygiene involves practices like regular washing, conditioning, and avoiding excessive heat or chemical treatments
Conclusion
For someone who loves tying their hair up in tight ponytails or buns, it is important to know all about the risk of hair loss. Traction alopecia is a condition that can arise from sleepy hairstyles, and one must follow healthy haircare habits to reduce the risk of the condition. If you have the option, let your hair loose and let them breathe. If you still want to keep it intact, use a scrunchie or soft bands.