ABSTRACT
Like trichotillomania, traction alopecia is a form of mechanical, traumatic alopecia. However, trauma to the hair is usually mild and chronic. Although vigorous scratching or combing may cause traction alopecia, most cases are caused by hairstyles involving tight braiding or banding of the hair. The condition is most common among African American girls whose hair-styles involve nearly continual braiding. However, the identical pattern of hair loss can be seen in persons of all races. Some girls get the condition after wearing tight ‘ponytail’ type hairstyles.
