A dermatologist is warning Jamaicans that repeatedly wearing popular hairstyles such as tight braids, cornrows, sleek ponytails and glued lace wigs could contribute to hair loss, which in some cases can become permanent.

Ahead of Alopecia Awareness Month in September, Dr Shasha-Marie Williams, who has postgraduate specialised training in dermatology from Cardiff University, said some everyday beauty practices can place continuous strain on the hair.

“A sleek ponytail, cornrows, relaxers, glued lace wigs and braids are common hairstyling practices in our culture. However, these styles can constantly pull and damage hair health, particularly when done tightly or repetitively. Over time, this can lead to hair loss,” Williams said.