Hair loss in black women can be caused by a number of reasons, including excessively tight hair styling methods, medication, chemical and heat damage, illness, hormonal changes, heredity, and vitamin deficiencies. Hair loss is, in many cases, temporary, but can also be permanent, resulting in damage to the scalp and bald patches.
Traction Alopecia
Hair extensions have been a popular styling option for black women for many years. Braids can give your hair a break from excessive styling, or chemical treatments, allowing it to grow with minimum manipulation anyway for four to eight weeks. Hair weaves have become more common and have the advantage of adding instant length or thickness to your hair. They also protect your natural hair from chemical or environmental damage. When extensions are attached too tightly, problems can occur, however. According to a 1998 reference in DermWeb, traction alopecia may develop when hair is pulled too tightly while styling over a long period of time. Significant breakage, temporary and permanent hair loss around your hairline, temples and nape of the neck can result from traction alopecia.
Chemical Damage
A 2005 consumer report by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, or FDA, highlighted the risk of hair loss and damage when using chemical treatments such as hair dye and relaxers. If you have highly textured hair, you may decide to use a relaxer to straighten your curls and waves. The harsh chemicals contained in relaxers can seriously damage your hair and scalp, and may result in permanent hair loss. Caution must be used when applying hair relaxers or any other chemical treatments to your hair. Chemicals left on your hair too long, not thoroughly rinsed, or too strong for your hair type, can lead to scalp irritation, burns and serious injury. A 2010 article on Akorra.com highlighted problems occurring from chemical relaxers. According to the article, permanent hair loss is common among those using hair relaxers, and chemical burns often result in permanent bald patches.
Heated Styling Tools
The use of heated styling tools can damage your hair, making it dry and brittle, eventually leading to hair loss. A 2007 Essence article listed central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia, or CCCA, as a main factor for hair loss in Black women. The actual cause is unknown according to this article; however, doctors note a combination of the use of hot combs, hair dryers and hot plates on chemically treated hair as probable causes. A tender, irritated scalp is an initial sign of CCCA. This eventually leads to shiny bald patches on the crown of your head.
Hormonal Changes
When your hormones fluctuate over a period of time, you may experience hair loss. According a 2010 article on MayoClinic.com, childbirth, menopause, thyroid disorders, and discontinuation of the contraceptive pill can lead to hair loss. This type is usually temporary and can be corrected with time or appropriate treatment. Androgenetic hair loss is a hormonal and heredity condition, better known as female balding. Hair loss at the crown of your head may signal androgenetic hair loss. If you experience unusual or unexplained hair loss, consult your doctor to determine the cause.
Medication and Vitamin Deficiencies
Medications such as antidepressants, contraceptive pills, steroids and hormone altering prescription drugs can cause temporary hair loss. Always do your research on the possible risks and side effects of prescription drugs before using, and discuss alternative options with your doctor.
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