The woolly, kinky texture of black hair is uniquely different in its shape and structure from the soft, straight, flowing hair of white people. Some hair-grooming procedures such as curling, pressing and perming stretch and stress the hair, causing it to break off or fall out.

 

  • Traction alopecia is a term used to describe symmetrical hair loss at the margins of the hairline; in other words a receding hairline. This condition can result from tightly­braided or twisted hairstyles, tight rollers and heated curl­ers, and decorative corn-rowing and dreadlocks. These can cause permanent hair loss.

 

  • Using a hot comb on chemically-treated hair can result in hair loss over the crown or top of the head.

 

  • Using chemical relaxers and hair strengtheners improperly or too frequently can cause patchy baldness by damaging the keratin of the hair, making it brittle and easy to break off.

 

  • Using a pick can fracture the hair shaft, again leading to hair loss.

 

To prevent or manage hair loss and breakage, ease the stress on your hair. This may mean changing your hair style, wearing looser braids, or using pincurls instead of rollers. Also, make sure you shampoo your hair at least once a week (I know it's often difficult), and use a protein conditioner regularly.