Can Hair Extensions Damage My Hair Follicles?

Hair fashions and styles can often be, but certainly aren’t always, the enemy of hair health. For example, traction alopecia is a hair loss condition most often caused by hairstyles that pull hair to the breaking point, such as wearing unnecessarily tight ponytails, pigtails, or braids for a long period of time.

Hair extensions are an increasingly popular styling option for many women, and while extensions themselves may not put you at risk for hair loss or follicle damage, the sloppy or improper attachment of extensions can absolutely cause problems for your hair.

Not all hair extensions are created equal, and not all stylists who apply extensions are equally skilled at doing so.

The safest kind of extensions, the one that has little to no chance of damaging your hair no matter who applies them, are clip-on extensions that women typically wear for only a few hours at a time and can be removed easily after each use.

Permanent hair extensions, on the other hand, involve the use of heat, glue, and lamps as part of the application process. This fusion type of extension attaches to your natural hair using keratin bonds that are melted, formed, and re-hardened around the hair in individual strands.

Problems can arise if the weight of the extensions is excessive. All of that heavy hair and gravity pulling down on your real hair can cause traction alopecia. Hair extensions should never weigh more than 200 grams. The risk of hair damage can be reduced by having a professional stylist apply the extensions followed by subsequent visits in which the glue is changed out or the stylist rotates the extensions so that they are not bound to the same hairs and the same tension all the time.

Schedule an Appointment for a Hair Loss Evaluation Today

While hair extensions aren’t inherently damaging, that doesn’t mean they are 100% free from complications, including hair damage and loss. If you are concerned about your hair loss and are ready to do something about it, we invite you to schedule a hair loss evaluation at the Miami Hair & Skin Institute today.  To receive a personalized assessment and treatment plan, contact us online or call our office directly at 305-925-0222.