Traction Alopecia From Hair Extensions: Causes, Early Signs & How to Reverse It

Traction Alopecia: When Extensions Pull Too Hard

Hair extensions are a great way to add volume and length, but when they’re applied too tightly or worn for prolonged periods, they create constant tension on your follicles. Over time, this pulling can damage the follicle and, in severe cases, remove the bulb from the root — leading to hair loss known as traction alopecia.

Early Signs of Extension Damage

It’s important to catch traction alopecia early. Look out for:

• Thinning around the temples
  
  

• Small bumps or inflammation near installation points
  
  

• Broken strands along the hairline
  
  

• Soreness or tenderness on the scalp
  
  

Left untreated, the damage can become permanent, making early intervention essential.

How Extensions Damage the Follicle

The repeated tension from extensions affects the hair at the root:

• Constant pulling weakens the follicle
  
  

• Inflammation forms around the root
  
  

• Blood flow is restricted
  
  

• Follicles eventually stop producing hair
  
  

How to Reverse Traction Alopecia

While prevention is key, there are steps you can take to protect and regenerate hair:

1. Remove or loosen extensions immediately
   Give your scalp a break to reduce ongoing stress.
   
   

2. Reduce inflammation with soothing scalp care
   Unveil’s Restorative Hair Serum calms irritation and supports a healthy follicle environment.
   
   

3. Use regenerative topicals
   Peptides and stem cell–derived extracts can help stimulate follicle recovery.
   Our Restorative Hair Serum is packed with peptides and growth-promoting ingredients to strengthen follicles.
   
   

4. Increase circulation through scalp massage
   Gently stimulating blood flow encourages nutrient delivery to follicles and promotes regrowth.
   
   

5. Strengthen new growth with proper nutrition
   Adequate protein, minerals, and omega-3 fatty acids support healthy hair cycles.
   
   

Traction alopecia from extensions doesn’t have to be permanent if addressed early. Combining topical support, scalp care, and consistent healthy practices can help hair recover and follicles thrive again.

Explore Unveil’s full hair restoration solutions here and start repairing your hair today.