Which condition is caused primarily by excessive pulling force on the hair?

Which condition is caused primarily by excessive pulling force on the hair?

• A. Alopecia areata
• B. Traction alopecia
• C. Alopecia totalis
• D. Alopecia universalis

Answer: (B)

Excessive pulling force on the hair creates mechanical stress that gradually weakens follicles, especially where the hair is pulled tight. Over time this tension disrupts the normal growth cycle, causing more hair to shed and thinning along the hairline or temples where the pull is greatest. If the pulling continues, the follicles can become damaged or scarred, leading to longer-lasting or permanent hair loss. This is traction alopecia, a condition arising from styling practices that place sustained tension on the hair. Alopecia areata involves an autoimmune attack on hair follicles, causing patchy hair loss not related to pulling. Alopecia totalis is the loss of all scalp hair, and alopecia universalis is loss of hair on the entire body—these are not caused by mechanical tension. To prevent traction alopecia, use looser hairstyles, avoid tight pulls, and vary styling to reduce continuous stress on any single area.

Excessive pulling force on the hair creates mechanical stress that gradually weakens follicles, especially where the hair is pulled tight. Over time this tension disrupts the normal growth cycle, causing more hair to shed and thinning along the hairline or temples where the pull is greatest. If the pulling continues, the follicles can become damaged or scarred, leading to longer-lasting or permanent hair loss. This is traction alopecia, a condition arising from styling practices that place sustained tension on the hair.

Alopecia areata involves an autoimmune attack on hair follicles, causing patchy hair loss not related to pulling. Alopecia totalis is the loss of all scalp hair, and alopecia universalis is loss of hair on the entire body—these are not caused by mechanical tension. To prevent traction alopecia, use looser hairstyles, avoid tight pulls, and vary styling to reduce continuous stress on any single area.