Dermatology - Hair loss, bald spot, hair going thick to thin, hair breaking

[Chauni]

I am 22 years old African American, I had really thick hair that can not go without a perm.
I have a son 2 years ago. My had started stranding out last july. It went from growing really good, strong and long to lifeless. I also work in the Hospital where I have to put a silk scarf under the cap just so it does not make the a hair dryer then it appears. I am not a person who runs to the hair dresser, I have not ever colored my hair, My family does have a very moderate balding but they are usually over 40 years. I am a health/home remedy junky so I know the shampoo, conditioner  and oil are good. I know that after I got the Organic Root Stimulator Olive oil perm I had a bald spot at the front. Right now its not visible because my hair is so thick. But my hair breaks and pulls without me feeling it.
I am waiting for a Dermatologist to be available to make appointment.

What should I do?


This discussion is related to Hair falling out!!.

[mamaw46]

my 3 year old has lost a large majority of her hair, she bruises easily, and is pale, was checked for leuekima, and routine labs  she does not twirl hair or wear braids any suggestions  vickie

[Dr_Aparna]

Hi,
Too much of manipulation of the hair can lead to what is called traction alopecia.Traction alopecia is a form of alopecia, or gradual hair loss, caused primarily by pulling force being applied to the hair.
The use of thermal or chemical hair straightening, and hair braiding or weaving are examples of styling techniques that place African American women at high risk for various "traumatic" alopecias.
Traction alopecia is reversible if diagnosed early, but may lead to permanent hair loss if it is undetected for a protracted period. Hair loss is often in the frontal and temporal regions, but also depends on the hair style.
The key to stopping traction alopecia is detecting it early. Hair styles that put unnecessary strain on the hair root must be changed for "looser, more gentle hair style. Women, African-American women, who suspect they may be vulnerable to traction alopecia should take action immediately to change their hair style or treatment methods and by all means, take the time to see a dermatologist.
Unfortunately, no medical treatment is available to reverse late-stage traction alopecia. Hair grafts have been identified as the only practical solution.
ref:http://www.traction-alopecia.com/