PONYTAIL PRECAUTIONS

Ponytails can be very cute, easy and convenient to wear but we need to exercise precautions when deciding how often and the way in which we wear this hairstyle. Ponytails were a favorite of mine especially in high school where finances didn't permit me to explore most of those hip, high-maintenance hairdos and in college because I worked and studied full time so it was virtually impossible to find the time necessary to properly groom my hair. In both cases the ponytail often proved to be a faithful life saver for me, as it allowed me to be able to look presentable with little time or resources. Now that I know better, wearing ponytails are no longer a norm but an absolute necessity. While many people may find themselves in that predicament, I would advise everyone to minimize the frequency with which you expose your hair to this potentially damaging hairstyle. The thing about it is that, most times we wear ponytails it is worn with the hair very tightly slicked back and fastened with a clip, scrunchie, rubber band etc. and this usually puts excessive tension on the hair especially the hair line. Many persons who wear this hairstyle too often has indicated that they have recorded hair thinning at the hair line. More technically speaking, Ponytails cause traction alopecia, which occurs when tension is placed on the scalp because the hair is pulled back too tightly. The tighter the ponytail is worn, the more likely it is for you to experience hair loss. Try to avoid wearing tight ponytails too frequently or for long periods. Receding hairline is not cute, so do your hair a favor and loosen up or avoid wearing this cute style too often. As naturals if we don't care our hair the proper way by doing the necessary protective styling, we sometimes find it easier to just use this style as a cop out. I am not saying it should be totally avoided but try to keep it to a bare minimum and preserve those edges.
In the event that you are already experiencing traction alopecia, you may want to reconsider wearing ponytails altogether or explore other less damaging ways of wearing one. Instead of wearing tight ponytails close to the top of the head where there is more tension, try wearing it looser towards the back of the neck. Hair loss due to ponytail is usually temporary but can be permanent if the ponytail hairstyle is worn long enough to damage the hair follicles. Make the best decision for the sake of your tresses.