There are a wide variety of ways to style your hair. The choices often depend upon the type of hair you have and the risk of hair loss from excessive treatment. Pulling your hair into a ponytail, a bun, or braids is a common form of hair styling that helps keep your hair out of the way during workouts or while you are just having fun at the beach. But some hairstyles that involve tight braids and weaves can result in hair loss over time from all the twisting and pulling on the hair follicles.

The repeated tensioning and relaxing of the scalp, along with repeated applications of heat and chemicals, cause hair loss to intensify as the process is replicated.

Risk of hair loss increases with tighter styles:

• Low risk of hair loss—Loose braids, loose-style buns
• Medium risk of hair loss—Straightening or permanents, extensions, and wigs
• Highest risk of hair loss—Tighter buns, chemically-straightened hair, tight braids, dreadlocks, weaves, and extensions

Alternating between loose and tighter styles may be the best way to avoid hair loss. While tight weaves and dreadlocks are beautiful and require less maintenance, they can lead to significant hair loss problems with repeated use.

Seeking the expert advice and treatment from an experienced board-certified dermatologist is the best way to achieve healthier hair. Dr. Juan Vaillant of Old Bridge Dermatology has been treating patients for hair, skin, and nail problems for over 30 years, and has the extensive background needed to help address a variety of dermatological issues. Dr. Vaillant has successfully treated acne, eczema, dandruff, hair loss, psoriasis, and nail fungus. If you are looking for an amiable, highly skilled dermatologist, call our office in Old Bridge, NJ at (732) 679-0222 and make an appointment.