Hair restoration expert warns that tight hairstyles and unsuitable hair products may cause long-term scalp damage if not addressed early
By Mapaballo Borotho
Hair is a big part of culture, self-identity and character. Most of the time, if not always, people are identified by the kind of hair they have.
It is one of the characteristics that describes a person’s personality. Whether it’s dreadlocks, an afro or relaxed hair, it forms part of one’s identity.
In recent years, many women of colour have been wearing weaves and what we often call protective hairstyles, sometimes simply by choice, and sometimes in an effort to protect their natural hair.
This may be due to a number of factors, including the possibility that industries have not yet fully catered for all types of Black hair when it comes to hair-care essentials.
Globally recognised physician and entrepreneur Kyjuan H. Brown told Kaya 959’s Point of View that he has come across many Black women who use hair products that have not been medically proven to be suitable for their hair types and scalp.
“We need evidence-based products and clinical hair products. We also need to make some adjustments for our people and for our culture,” said Brown.
He said there’s several mistakes that women of colour, especially in South Africa, make when it comes to caring for and styling their hair.
“You start braiding your hair at the age of two, if not younger, and the pulling of the hair can cause irreversible damage. If it is not treated early, it can lead to alopecia.
If you are already experiencing alopecia, help is available – not only medical help, but surgical restoration as well,” he said.
He also advised people to avoid braiding at the beginning of the hairline and to stay away from overly tight hairstyles.
“Most people think we cannot transplant afro hair, but that is not true,” he said.
However, he emphasised that hair transplantation is not suitable for everyone, as each person has different hair roots and scalp conditions.
According to Brown, some people can begin to see results within weeks when undergoing hair restoration, provided the correct medical protocol is followed.
He also advised people to allow their hair time to breathe.
Listen to the podcast for the full discussion…
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