The Cost of the Curl

Traction alopecia is a well-described cause of hair loss associated with high-tension hairstyles but is rarely reported in children related to wig use. We describe three pediatric patients aged 7-8 years who developed focal vertex scalp alopecia after wearing traditional Irish dancing wigs during high-energy dances. Clinical findings and trichoscopy were consistent with traction alopecia, with partial or complete regrowth following wig avoidance. These cases highlight an underrecognized form of pediatric alopecia caused by prolonged wig use during Irish dancing, emphasizing the importance of early recognition and preventive modification of wig practices.

Abstract from PubMed