Disclaimer

The information and advice are based upon the research and the personal experiences of the author. They are not intended as a substitute for consulting with a healthcare professional. The publisher and author are not responsible for any adverse effects or consequences resulting from the use of any of the suggestions, preparations, or procedures discussed in this post. All matters pertaining to your physical health should be supervised by a healthcare professional. It is a sign of wisdom to seek a second or third opinion.

Traction Alopecia

This form of alopecia presents itself in three stages, each with individual treatment options. Progression to each stage will vary depending on your hair type. For example, someone like me with a finer hair texture may progress from stage 1 to stage 2 faster than someone with thicker, fuller hair. In stage one, we tend to identify the cause right away. We know the tension-stressed hairstyles we’ve used recently and right away understand we need to take a break. Stage 2-3 is when we usually realize we need help/guidance from a dermatologist. Below is a summary of each stage. Hopefully, this will help you identify your stage and provide you with some insight into what you should do next.  
 
Stage 1 is when your edges are still present with some thinning due to tight ponytails, braids, or any other style causing aggressive tension on your frontal hairline. STOP all styles that apply tension allow your hair to breathe and rest. Apply castor oil, rosemary oil, peppermint oil, lavender oil, or a combination of oils to the affected area.  Please allow at least 6 months of consistency before you see actual results that will last.

 
Stage 2 is when you’ve been doing stage 1 remedies consistently and has not noticed a change. If that is honestly the case meaning your hair has thinned a little more or remained the same even though you’ve cut out aggressive hairstyles and applied the oils. I say that because I want to ensure you’ve honestly stopped the tension and allowed your hair adequate time to absorb hair care essentials and repair itself before applying stage 2 methods. If you do learn you are in stage 2, that means your scalp will only respond to medical therapy. Medical therapy for the stage is
 

• Minoxidil over the counter $40 with this treatment you must use daily forever. If you stop, the grown hair will fall out. Once stimulation to regrow hair starts, it must continue
• PRP cost $2000-$5500
• Prescribed treatment – $60 for a 2-month supply. This is a more potent form of Minoxidil with some oil

In this stage, I recommend consulting with your dermatologist for the best treatment options for you.
 
Stage 3 is when your edges are completely gone, and the entire front hairline is bald. Treatment for this is a hair transplant. A hair transplant is when hair from the back is removed and placed in the front. This procedure could cost anywhere from 10,000 to 20,000 depending on how much hair needs to be transplanted. This one-time procedure has yielded great results for curly/kinky hair.

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