How to Distinguish Traction Alopecia from Genetic Hair Loss

The following response, posted on our Hair Loss Social Community and Discussion Forums was written by recommended hair restoration surgeon Dr. Tejinder Bhatti:

How can you tell traction alopecia, as found in some Sikh men, is not male pattern baldness? I wear a ponytail and have wondered if it could have been the cause of my past or possibly future hair loss.

The distinguishing factors of traction alopecia commonly seen in the Sikh population are:

1. Alopecia occurs at a much earlier age – even 12 years.
2. Alopecia is more on one side than on the other since when the bun is tied, one side gets maximum stretch like the ropes of a tent.
3. There is no thinning of adjacent hairs.
4. There is a clear cut defined line.
5. The alopecia, if severe, is also seen behind the ears which does not happen in androgenic alopecia genetic baldness.

Merely tying a ponytail will not cause traction alopecia. It has to be tied real tight! A tight knot of the threads of a bandanna make matters even worse.

Dr. Tejinder Bhatti
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David

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