Is My Long Hair Causing My Headaches?

According to Instyle, a prominent fashion blog and lifestyle magazine, super long hair is in for the year of 2020. Despite taking a back seat to bobs, shags, and layers in the past decade, 2020 is the year of long hair as seen by stars Kim Kardashian and Jennifer Lopez. While this hairstyle is making a comeback, there are certain drawbacks, that can come from having such long hair.

High Ponytails

High ponytails can cause both headaches and traction alopecia, a type of hair loss related to certain hairstyles. The constant pulling on the hair follicles and the extra stress on the scalp can also easily cause nasty headaches. Being careful with the amount of time your hair is up in a tight ponytail along with switching it up once in a while will help to keep your hair fresh and relaxed… and attached. It will also give you a break from ponytail headaches.

Naturally Thick Hair

If your hair is thick in and of itself and at a decently long length, you might experience pain without putting your hair up at all. This is simply related to the weight of the hair pulling on your scalp and neck. In this case, you may want to talk to you hairdresser about thinning the ends to lessen some of that weight.

Extensions

If you don’t already have long hair, extensions may seem like your best option. They can add volume and length, but the hidden dangers behind them may make you think twice before making them a routine habit. Adding that much weight to your hair can create tension on your head, causing headaches. The excessive pulling on the scalp and hair follicles can cause nerves in the scalp to become sensitive, also leading to headaches. If extensions are installed regularly, it is possible to experience traction alopecia as well.

The Dangers

Traction alopecia is defined by Medical News Today as “hair loss caused by tightly pulled hairstyles”. This can occur if you regularly wear your hair in a tight ponytail, have tight braids, or have decided on sporting locs (more commonly referred to as dreadlocks). Signs of traction alopecia include a receding hairline, zits on the hairline or on the scalp, a widened hair part, patchy or thinning hair, and shiny or scarred skin on the scalp, although this generally occurs in advanced cases of traction alopecia.

Altogether, just be sure to keep an eye on your locks and, if possible, save those extensions for special events! Always make sure to take good care of your hair and scalp. Long hair takes work, but if this is the style that makes you feel your absolute best, it is totally worth it.

Have you been experiencing headaches? To contact one of our doctors today, or to make an appointment to visit any of our locations, call (888) 824-5580 or visit https://healthpointe.net/.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Roman Shulze.