Hairstyling Habits That Contribute to Hair Loss

Several hairstyling practices can weaken hair, cause breakage, and lead to hair loss over time. Here are some of the most common culprits:

• Tight Hairstyles:
  • Ponytails, Braids, and Buns: Wearing tight ponytails, braids, or buns frequently can lead to a condition called traction alopecia. This type of hair loss occurs when constant tension on the hair pulls it out by the roots, damaging the hair follicles. Over time, this can result in thinning hair and permanent bald spots, particularly around the hairline.
  • Cornrows and Weaves: Similar to tight ponytails and braids, cornrows and weaves can also cause traction alopecia if worn too tightly or for extended periods. The added weight of hair extensions can further strain the hair follicles.
• Heat Styling:
  • Blow Drying: Regular use of blow dryers at high temperatures can dry out the hair, making it brittle and prone to breakage. Over time, excessive heat can weaken the hair shaft, leading to thinning hair and split ends.
  • Flat Irons and Curling Irons: Flat irons and curling irons can cause even more damage than blow dryers because they apply direct heat to the hair. Using these tools frequently, especially without a heat protectant, can lead to significant hair breakage and loss.
  • Hot Rollers: While less common than flat irons and curling irons, hot rollers can also damage hair when used too often or at high temperatures, leading to weakened hair and increased shedding.
• Chemical Treatments:
  • Hair Coloring: Frequent coloring, especially with bleach or high-lift colorants, can weaken the hair’s structure, making it more susceptible to breakage. Over-processing hair with color treatments can strip it of natural moisture and lead to hair loss.
  • Perming and Relaxing: Chemical treatments like perming and relaxing alter the hair’s natural texture by breaking and reforming the hair’s bonds. These treatments can weaken the hair shaft, leading to breakage and thinning, particularly if performed repeatedly or incorrectly.
  • Keratin Treatments: While keratin treatments are marketed as smoothing and strengthening solutions, they can cause hair damage if the formula is too strong or if the treatment is applied too frequently. The high heat used to seal in the treatment can also contribute to hair breakage.
• Over-Brushing and Rough Handling:
  • Excessive Brushing: While regular brushing is important for distributing natural oils and keeping hair detangled, over-brushing can lead to hair breakage and thinning. Using the wrong type of brush or brushing hair too aggressively can also damage the hair cuticle.
  • Wet Hair Handling: Hair is more fragile when wet, so rough handling, such as vigorous towel drying or brushing wet hair, can cause breakage. Wet hair is prone to stretching and snapping, which can lead to significant hair loss over time.
• Improper Use of Hair Accessories:
  • Tight Hair Ties: Elastic hair ties without protective fabric can snag and break hair. Constant use of tight hair ties in the same area can weaken the hair and cause it to break.
  • Metal Clips and Pins: Hair accessories with metal parts can snag hair and cause breakage, especially if used frequently or left in for long periods.