Traction alopecia is a common issue for Black women, caused by chemicals, dyes, wigs, weaves, and tight hairstyles. Traction alopecia is a form of hair loss that occurs when constant tension is applied to the hair follicles, leading to damage and eventual hair loss. This type of alopecia is particularly prevalent among Black women due to the frequent use of chemical treatments and styling techniques that put strain on the hair. It is important for individuals to be mindful of the impact of these practices on their hair health and to take proactive steps to prevent further damage. It’s not normal to lose your edges, and they can often be restored if caught early. Here are 10 tips to help your edges thrive.
Go easy with the ponytails.
Ponytails are a popular and convenient hairstyle, but wearing them too tight or using certain products can lead to hair damage. It’s best not to wear a ponytail every day and to give your hair a break. Remember, you don’t need perfect edges all the time for your hairstyle to look cute. It’s important to prioritize the health of your hair over achieving a certain look. Opt for looser ponytails or try different hairstyles to prevent breakage and damage. Embracing natural textures and imperfections can also add a unique charm to your overall look.
Stop clogging your hair follicles.
To keep your hair healthy and thriving, it’s important to prevent clogged hair follicles on your edges. Clogged follicles can be caused by excess hair products, dead skin, sweat, sebum, bacteria, and dandruff flakes. Edge control products with alcohol, sulfates, and heavy waxes can worsen the issue. Regularly gently scrubbing your scalp on wash days can help clear your edges’ follicles and keep them healthy.
Be mindful of the products for your face getting on your hairline.
Be cautious about getting face wash and toner on your hair edges, as the chemicals in these products can dry them out. When washing your face, it’s important to be mindful of the proximity to your hairline. The skin on your face may benefit from the cleansing properties of face wash and toner, but your hair edges are more delicate and prone to dryness. To prevent any potential damage, consider using a headband or towel to protect your hair while applying these products. Additionally, opting for gentle, sulfate-free formulas can help minimize the risk of drying out your hair edges.
Switch up your parts.
Switching up your hair part is important to prevent breakage and promote healthy hair growth. Constantly styling your hair in the same way can cause damage and thinning. It is also important to give your hair a break from combing and sleek styles to promote thickness and length. Adding variation to your hair parting can help maintain healthy edges.
Massage your hairline gently with peppermint and lemongrass oils.
To promote healthy hair growth and reduce stress, gently massage your scalp, including your edges, with a mixture of grapeseed oil, peppermint, and lemongrass essential oils 2-3 times a week for 10-15 minutes. Peppermint stimulates hair growth, while lemongrass strengthens follicles and cleanses the scalp.
Use hydrating Edge control
Make sure your edge control is hydrated by using one with no alcohol and as much water as possible. Look for alcohol-free edge controls and watch YouTube reviews for recommendations. Use a soft bristle brush for smoothing, avoiding harsh brushes that can damage fragile edges.
