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Curly Nikki

Traction Alopecia: How to Work It

By January 27th, 2021No Comments
Traction Alopecia: How to Work It
by LaTonya of curlyhue.com

I posted this picture on my social media outlets the other day. I mentioned that I’ve had (and still have) traction alopecia since the age of 7. For me, the damage is permanent. However in their pulling rampage, my caretakers did the least damage at the very edge of my hairline. Because of that, since a teenager, I’ve been able to camouflage my worst area (my temples) in some hair styles.

To see what I mean, check out this video by MlleCafeAuLait, we don’t use the same products but the method is pretty much the same.

**Disclaimer: This does NOT give you permission to snatch yourselves bald. It DOES however provide an option for those of us who have no choice in the matter.

How I maintain what’s left:

  • Primarily smooth edges with my fingers (sometimes I’ll use a soft toothbrush or baby hair brush).
  • Keep problem areas moisturized
  • Use a mixture of Jojoba & Jamaican Black Castor on water damp hair, as my primary smoothing agent.
  • Never gather or pull hair too tight- always mindful of edges

The steps I follow:

  1. Spritz area with water
  2. Apply oil mixture
  3. Tie the area down with a scarf for a few minutes… and you’re good to go.

As a kid, it was so embarrassing to have long hair most of my life and nearly ziltch for hair at my temples. Discontinuing relaxers helped the less affected part of my temple area fill in.

Notes: 


-My temporary color spray brand of choice is High Beams.
-When my hair is freshly colored I wear: Brown.
-When I have lots of “roots” or no color in my hair at all, I wear: Brown-Black
-High Beams as well as the brand MlleAuLait uses can be found at local beauty supply stores and Amazon.



Are you dealing with traction alopecia? Share your experiences below. 


CN Says:
Want more info on alopecia, check out this link

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