The Ballerina Curse on Hair Loss

Traction alopecia in women is also known as ‘Ballerina Baldness’ as it is often caused by hair being pulled too tight damaging the roots and is common with dancers and ballerinas who are used to wearing their hair up and off their face for long periods of time.

Traction Alopecia is a hair loss condition which can occur when there is a pulling force applied to the hair. You may notice a gradual recession of the hairline as the constant pull on the hair causes the hair follicles to become distorted and damaged which causes weakening of the hair meaning that your hair will grow back finer and shorter, however in severe cases it may not grow back at all.

Those suffering from traction alopecia may notice that they are losing more hair than normal and may come across small bald spots on their head. Their hair may be thicker on one side or the gap in the hair lines may seem wider than before.

Other symptoms include:

Itchy Scalp
Painful scalp
Redness and inflammation of the scalp

If you undo your hair at the end of the day and feel soreness on your scalp then this may also be an early sign.

It is not just ballerina buns that can cause this, other hair styles such as braided cornrows, hair extensions and dreadlocks can also put pressure on the hair and roots resulting in hair loss and thinning. It can also be caused by something as simple as wearing certain hair clips, hair pieces or headbands in the same position every day, an excessive use of hair rollers, wearing a weave or wig and even wearing a cycling helmet for a long periods of time can cause it to pull and rub on the same area of hair.

A simple change of habit when it comes to styling your hair is the best way to solve the issue. Give your hair a rest some days and leave it down, avoid using heavy hair extensions and if you do need to wear your hair up then make sure you are careful to change the direction in which the hair is being pulled in each day.

Traction alopecia is not caused by genetics like some other types of hair loss which means anyone can develop it.
If you fear you may be suffering from traction alopecia then it is well worth booking a consultation with our skilled team of Trichologists.

Traction alopecia is easiest to treat when it’s in the early stages. A trichologist will be able to establish what stage you are at and whether non-surgical treatments and lifestyle changes will be enough to restore your hair to its former glory.

Hair Loss Treatments

Our expert Trichologists will be able to offer personalised advise on how to stop or at least slow down hair loss. This may include dietry and lifestyle changes as well as hair loss medication suggestions.

TrichoTest

We also offer TrichoTest DNA Hair Loss Testing which is a great way to find out the exact cause of hair loss. The TrichoTest is suitable for both women and men who want to understand how genetics are affecting their hair loss treatment. The test offers patients a full genetic analysis with personalised treatment solutions. Find out more about the TrichoTest here.

Non Surgical Hair Loss Treatment

Non-Surgical Hair Loss treatment may be a great option or patients looking for a minimally invasive way to treat areas of hair loss with no downtime. The treatment uses growth factors found within your own blood which is then injected into the scalp to promote hair growth in dormant hair follicles. Find out more about Non Surgical Hair Loss Treatment here.

You may be referred to our hair transplant surgical team if your traction alopecia is more severe and has caused permanent scarring. Female hair transplants can be very effective at restoring areas of hair loss in the hairline, temples or crown. Find out more about female hair transplants here.

Trichology at The Private Clinic

We only work with highly recognised, Trichology professionals certified by the Institute of Trichologists to get the best results for your needs. Our elite team has advanced knowledge on hair loss and are able to utilise years of experience to ensure they find the best treatment plan for you. They work in collaboration with our industry-leading hair surgeons and renowned dermatologists, to ensure results are not only noticeable, but also long-lasting.

Jane Mayhead in Harley Street, Northampton and Birmingham
Denise Knight in Leeds

We also have a team of expert hair transplant surgeons who can help advise of female hair loss, consult for female hair transplants or offer alternative hair loss treatments such as non-surgical hair loss treatment.

Dr Furqan Raja, MB ChB, GMC Number: 7419667
Dr Michael Mouzakis S.C.F in Plastic Surgery, GMC Number: 7237640
Dr Ismail Ughratdar, MB ChB, GMC Number: 6103427
Dr Luca De Fazio MD, BSc, MSc, GMC Number: 7095123

Hair Loss Treatment at The Private Clinic

We are the UK’s leading non-invasive cosmetic group and have some of the most experienced doctors and nurses in the country working with us. For over 40 years we have successfully treated thousands of patients.
State of the art medical facilities, all registered by the CQC (Care Quality Commission).
You will be treated by highly experienced Trichologists or Hair Transplant surgeons
By coming to us for your non-surgical hair loss treatment you can rest assured you are in the best possible hands
We offer a 24-hour patient helpline following treatment
When it comes to non-surgical treatments we always strive to give you little to no downtime, so you can get back to enjoying life.
We afford all our patients the right care before, during and after every treatment.
We have clinics nationwide in London Harley Street, Birmingham, Leeds, Manchester and Northampton.
See our female hair loss before and after results photo gallery
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