Hair Loss in African-Americans

CCCA (central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia) and traction alopecia are frequent causes of hair loss in African-American women. Both can result from aggressive styling techniques such as relaxers, extensions, weaves, and hot combs. The combination of trauma and heat can lead to permanent scarring of the skin around the hair follicle. When recognized and treated early, there is hope of recovering the affected hair follicles. Patients may benefit from anti-inflammatory injections as well as topical and oral treatments. They can especially benefit from hair transplantation, depending on the areas affected and degree of inflammation present (if any). However they must be sure to limit the ongoing use of chemical relaxers and other damaging grooming practices.

Traction Alopecia	Scarring Alopecia	Central Centrifugal Cicatricial Alopecia (CCCA)
This non-scarring form of hair loss can result from chronic pulling or tight braids.	Follicles are replaced with smooth scar tissue.	An enlarging rim of hair loss can form in the vertex, usually due to ongoing use of heat or chemical relaxers.

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