Guide · Ozentya, afro hair loss specialist since 2011

Hair loss and thinning in afro hair: causes, gentle care and when to see a doctor

Shedding 50 to 100 hairs a day is normal. Thinning edges, a widening part or hair that snaps before it grows are not. Here is how to tell the difference and what you can do at home.

In short

Afro hair loss most often comes from breakage, tension from tight styles (traction alopecia), postpartum shedding, stress or deficiencies. A gentle routine that keeps the scalp clean, avoids tension and nourishes the lengths helps the hair you have stay strong. Patchy loss, scarring or sudden heavy shedding calls for a dermatologist.

This is cosmetic and hair-care advice. It does not replace the opinion of a doctor or dermatologist. Results vary from person to person.

Shedding or breakage?

A shed hair has a small white bulb at the root; a broken hair has no bulb and is often short. Breakage is the most frequent cause of 'my hair does not grow' in kinky hair: it is fixed with moisture, protection and gentle handling rather than with a new product every week.

Traction alopecia: the edges warning sign

Tight braids, weaves, wigs glued at the hairline and slick ponytails pull on the follicles. Early signs are small bumps, soreness and thinner edges. Loosen your styles, take breaks between installs and keep the scalp clean. Long-standing traction can become permanent, which is why acting early matters.

Other common causes

Postpartum shedding usually starts two to four months after birth and settles within the year. Stress, crash diets, iron or vitamin D deficiencies and thyroid problems can also trigger shedding: a blood test with your doctor is the right first step.

A gentle routine for fragile hair

Wash the scalp weekly with a gentle shampoo, condition every time, use a nourishing mask once a week and seal moisture with an oil. Massage the scalp for a few minutes when applying a scalp lotion. Ozentya routines such as the Pack Pouss Initial or the 3-month Cure follow these steps.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Extrême Repouss should not be used during pregnancy; wait until you have finished breastfeeding.

When to see a dermatologist

See a doctor for patches without hair, a shiny or scarred scalp, itching or pain, or sudden heavy shedding. Cosmetics take care of the hair and scalp; they do not replace a diagnosis.