Unbeknownst to a lot of people, alopecia (hair loss) has six different types it could manifest as. Here, you’ll find a comprehensible description of them all; you can also find plenty more information in Narisse’s book, Colonised Hair, Decolonised Mind.
Alopecia Areata is hair loss appearing in round/oval patches, of which all ages and genders can be prone to. It occurs when white blood cells attack the body’s hair follicles and in Narisse’s experience, can also be prompted by chemicals too.
The second type, Alopecia Totalise, is also a matter of an auto-immune response but this time, results in complete hair loss, which can occur very swiftly. Studies suggest that genetics may be a cause, and is more likely to affect people within the 15-29 age bracket.
The rarest form of this ailment is Alopecia Universalis. Like the others, this is also a matter of immune responses and as stated within Narisse’s book, hair loss occurs in the following areas, “Body hair, eyebrows, scalp, hair and eyelashes”.
Androgenetic Alopecia displays within men and women differently. In men, an “M” shaped receding hairline and in women, hair thinning all over the scalp.
Finally, Traction Alopecia; hair loss induced by the tight hairstyles that pull on the hair strands. It is the most recognised, common type and is usually most prevalent around the hairline and edges.
Though now that we’ve distinguished the types, how can we prevent and treat such?
Traction Alopecia can be prevented by reducing the tension exerted on the hair – be gentle and don’t tightly braid the hairline.
Alopecia Areata issues can thankfully grow back with the aid of immunosuppressive medication and natural treatments – of which Narisse has developed her own remedy for. Narisse also writes in her book, “Avoiding stress, sleeping well, drinking enough water, following a balanced diet and taking regular exercise can reduce the chance of getting it”.
Androgenetic Alopecia, Alopecia Totalise and Alopecia Universalis, unfortunately don’t have any concrete cures, however many precautions can be incorporated to manage such. Visiting a trichologist can slow down or even reverse the hair loss – and certain prescribed medications and immunotherapies can stimulate new follicular growth if done consistently.
Narisse Monkam herself offers coaching on managing Alopecia – coaching which you can receive by visiting lafrobeauty.com and completing a consultation form.
