How do I know how severe my traction alopecia is?

[SavaFiend76]

I have very long, thick hair (waist-length) which I've had to wear pulled back in a tight bun for work purposes for the past several years.  It never seemed to be a problem before.  However, in March 2009, I noticed a small spot at my temples where the hair was sparse.  And in the last 3 months, my hairline over my forehead has receded, and the hair on the left side of the top of my head is very thin.  I've stopped wearing my hair up in a bun, but everything I've read says that traction alopecia may be irreversible after a certain point.  How do I know if I've let it go on too long?  Is it pretty much just a "wait and see" approach from here on out?

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
Traction alopecia is caused by gradual hair loss, caused primarily by pulling force being applied to the hair.  If there is slight receding of hair, then stop tying it in a bun and it should get better. But if there is any folliculitis and ulceration associated then it is severe in nature. Treatment includes topical and oral antibiotics and surgical hair transplantation procedures.

It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your dermatologist. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.

[PIGLET7]

Hi,

I am not a doctor but I did have traction alopecia myself.  My hairline was all breaking off and became very thin. The dermatologist told me that my ponytails were too tight and to stop wearing it like  that.  I don't remember exactly how long it took, but my hair did return to normal and I have no signs of traction alopecia now.

Hope it makes you feel better!