Tennis star Serena Williams' changing hairstyles seem to be taking a toll on her hair. Recent photos show the 30-year old sporting a bald spot, a telling sign that she is likely suffering from a condition called traction alopecia.
Well known for her long time use of hair extensions and weaves, it appears that Serena may be now dealing with the consequences of the pulling, styling and abuse her follicles have suffered over many years.
Common among people who wear tight braids, those who use hair extensions over a long period of time, attach wigs or weaves with glue/clips/tape, or those who suffer from trichotillomania (hair-pulling disease), traction alopecia is a result of the chronic tension or pulling on the follicles causing irreparable damage.
The definitive cure is hair transplantation which permanently replaces the follicles into the bald skin. However, without a change in hair-care habits, the transplanted hair is also at risk.
