Hair styles made popular by stars such as Rihanna are putting women at risk of baldness, claim researchers.
Braids, weaves, dreadlocks and extensions have boomed in popularity after being used by stars including Nicki Minaj, Kim Kardashian and Rita Ora.
But the artificial procedures — costing up to £100 a time — put extra Braids, weaves, dreadlocks and extensions have boomed in popularity after being used by stars including Nicki Minaj, Kim Kardashian and Rita Ora.
But the artificial procedures — costing up to £100 a time — put extra pressure on the scalp leading to traction alopecia, a condition that tears lumps of hair from the roots.
A review of 19 studies found a ‘strong link’ between the hairstyles and traction alopecia — gradual hair loss caused by damage to the hair follicle from prolonged or repeated tension on the hair root.
Crystal Aguh, assistant professor of dermatology at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine in Baltimore, who carried out a recent study, said: ‘Hair is a cornerstone of self-esteem and identity for many people, but ironically, some hairstyles meant to improve our self-confidence actually lead to hair and scalp damage.
‘Traction alopecia is entirely preventable, and early intervention can stop or reverse it. We have to do better as care providers to offer our patients proper guidance to keep them healthy from head to toe.’
