Approach to Hair Loss in Women of Color

Hair loss in women of color represents a unique diagnostic challenge that requires a
systematic approach. In women of color, clinical examination of the hair and scalp is most
helpful when performed first and used to guide subsequent history-taking to arrive at a
clinical assessment. The most common hair problems in women of color are hair breakage,
traction alopecia, and central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia. A careful detailed clinical
examination and history will guide the clinician to appropriate counseling and management.
It is important to recognize that a patient may have more than one of these 3 diagnoses and
each requires separate attention. Traction alopecia is completely preventable with appropriate
education of the public and medical establishment.
Semin Cutan Med Surg 28:109-114 © 2009 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Hair loss in women of color represents a unique diagnostic challenge that requires a
systematic approach. In women of color, clinical examination of the hair and scalp is most
helpful when performed first and used to guide subsequent history-taking to arrive at a
clinical assessment. The most common hair problems in women of color are hair breakage,
traction alopecia, and central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia. A careful detailed clinical
examination and history will guide the clinician to appropriate counseling and management.
It is important to recognize that a patient may have more than one of these 3 diagnoses and
each requires separate attention. Traction alopecia is completely preventable with appropriate
education of the public and medical establishment.
Semin Cutan Med Surg 28:109-114 © 2009 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

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