Unmasking the Truth: Alopecia, Hair Practices, and Healing Our Scalps
We've all seen it, felt it, or known someone who's experienced it: hair thinning, bald spots, and scalp irritation. Alopecia, in its various forms, is a prevalent issue within the Black community, and it's time we addressed the contributing factors and started a conversation about healing.
Our hair has been a source of pride, creativity, and cultural expression for generations. We've used weaves, braids, relaxers, and other styling techniques to achieve the looks we desire. But sometimes, these practices, coupled with potentially toxic hair products, can take a toll on our scalps and hair follicles.
Tight braids, heavy weaves, and the harsh chemicals in relaxers can cause traction alopecia, a form of hair loss caused by constant pulling on the hair follicles. Chemical burns and scalp irritation from certain products can also damage the scalp and hinder hair growth. We've been told so often that beauty is pain, but the truth is, it shouldn't be.
The natural hair movement has been a powerful force in reclaiming our hair and embracing our natural textures. It's encouraged us to step away from chemical relaxers and embrace our curls, coils, and kinks. However, it’s important to acknowledge that even within the natural-hair community, we sometimes unintentionally adopt practices that can be detrimental.
For example, the desire to achieve maximum moisture and definition can lead to product overload, leaving heavy creams and gels sitting on the scalp for extended periods. This buildup can clog pores, irritate the scalp, and even contribute to fungal infections. Additionally, the practice of walking around with consistently wet hair, while sometimes necessary for styling, can weaken the hair shaft over time, making it more prone to breakage.
This isn't about shaming anyone for their hair choices. It's about raising awareness and promoting healthy hair practices. It's about empowering ourselves with knowledge and making informed decisions about our hair and scalp health.
Here are some things we can do:
Avoid tight hairstyles that pull on the hair follicles.
Opt for hair products that are free from harsh chemicals and sulfates.
Moisturize regularly but wisely by keeping your scalp and hair hydrated with natural oils and moisturizers, but avoid excessive product buildup.
Allow your hair to dry thoroughly, especially after washing. Consider using a diffuser on a low setting.
Avoid wearing weaves and braids constantly. Allow your scalp time to breathe and recover.
If you're experiencing hair loss or scalp irritation, consult a dermatologist or trichologist.
Celebrate your natural hair texture and find styles that are healthy and empowering.
Be aware of the ingredients in your haircare products and understand their potential effects.
Use a gentle clarifying shampoo periodically to remove product buildup from your scalp.
Our bodies are temples, and our scalps deserve to be treated with care. Prioritize healthy hair practices and create a culture of support and understanding. Today, we celebrate the beauty of our natural hair and empower ourselves to make informed choices that promote our overall well-being.
References:
American Academy of Dermatology Association. (n.d.). Hair loss types. Retrieved from https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/hair-loss/types
Cleveland Clinic. (2021). Traction alopecia. Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21808-traction-alopecia
WebMD. (n.d.). Hair loss in Black women. Retrieved from https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/hair-loss/hair-loss-black-women
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