As you walk out of a hair salon, with an inflamed scalp, on the verge of tears and with your braids done so tightly you can’t move your face, you may try to rationalize your suffering by mentally repeating “Beauty is pain!” And come up with a plethora of excuses as to why this isn’t a big deal. “This means my hair style will last longer!”, “My hair will grow as the follicles are being stimulated”, ” Technically it’s a protective style.”
We’re here to dispel these excuses and to tell you that these are in fact incredibly detrimental to your hair health! Tight hair styles come with several drawbacks, all of which are counterproductive and will in fact lead to hair loss. Here’s exactly how:
Disrupted Sleep
Most obviously, it’s very, very difficult to sleep with extremely tight hair in. It’s uncomfortable at best and downright excruciating at worst – some even resort to taking out their hairstyles entirely and understandably so. A disrupted sleep cycle means less growth, as rest is when your body replenishes itself and it cannot effectively do that if you’re tossing and turning in bed. Moreover, the stress of being in constant pain adds onto this, as stress produces high levels of cortisol. High levels of cortisol can then cause hair loss, as it prompts the growth cycle to induce its resting and shedding phase.
Traction Alopecia
About ⅓ of women of African descent are affected by traction Alopecia – stemming from wearing tight hair styles for prolonged periods of time. These include tight buns, braids and ponytails. These can bring forth the thinning of the edges and a recessed hairline, should time go on with no change. It’s an ailment that many people feel emotionally drained over, which goes back to the effects of stress that was previously stated.
Over-manipulation
Many people can’t handle the pain of having such a tight hair style in, and opt to take it out. Of course this is reasonable, though getting your hair braided for hours and then taking it out again can add onto manipulation – meaning the hair follicles are constantly being handled which can weaken them. This is why it’s especially beneficial to attain a hairstyle that is comfortable for the entire duration you have it in for.
Plenty of people believe they can’t have both beauty and comfort, though this is untrue. Yes, you can have a hairstyle that is nicely done and also pain-free. If you’re doing your hair on your own, ensure you use a light hand and don’t pin back your baby hairs too, as they are especially delicate. Seek a hairstylist who understands the nature of afro hair and do not be afraid to voice your concerns when it comes to tightness or discomfort. Doing so will allow your hair to thrive and your hair will thank you for it.
