Breaking the Silence: Hair Loss in Black Women and What You Can Do

By Rachel Allen, President

Hair is more than just a style – it’s a form of identity, culture, and confidence. So when women begin to notice thinning or excessive shedding, it can be emotionally distressing. While hair loss affects women of all backgrounds, Black women experience it at disproportionately high rates – and often for different reasons than their counterparts.

What Causes Hair Loss in Women?

Hair loss in women can result from a variety of causes, including genetics, hormonal changes (such as menopause or thyroid issues), autoimmune conditions like alopecia areata, stress, and poor nutrition. But for many Black women, hair loss is often linked to traction alopecia – a condition caused by repeated tension on the hair follicles due to tight styles such as braids, weaves, locs, or ponytails. Over time, these styles can damage the follicles and lead to permanent hair loss if not addressed early.

Chemical treatments, such as relaxers and permanent dyes, can also weaken hair shafts and contribute to breakage and thinning. Additionally, central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia (CCCA) – a type of scarring alopecia that starts at the crown and spreads outward – is more common in Black women than in any other group. CCCA can lead to irreversible hair loss if left untreated.

What Can You Do About It?

The first step is to identify the cause. If you’re experiencing sudden or patchy hair loss, or if the scalp feels sore or inflamed, it’s important to see a dermatologist or trichologist. Early diagnosis can help preserve your hair and prevent further damage.

Adopting a gentle hair care routine can also make a significant difference. Avoid tight hairstyles and limit the use of heat and chemicals. Opt for protective styles that don’t stress the scalp, and give your hair breaks between styles.

A healthy diet rich in iron, vitamin D, and biotin can also support hair health. In some cases, your doctor may recommend treatments like topical minoxidil, corticosteroid injections, or oral medications to slow or reverse hair loss.

Final Thoughts

Hair loss is a complex and deeply personal issue, especially for Black women who may have experienced years of cultural or societal pressure around their hair. But with education, awareness, and early care, it’s possible to reclaim both healthy hair and self-confidence.

Email us at nbhdtraining@gmail.com to reserve a spot for our in-person conversational talk about black women in hair loss.