Naomi Campbell's Hair Loss Woes

Photo by PR Photos, edited/notated by 
Dr. Alan Bauman

It has long been speculated that Naomi Campbell struggles with traction alopecia. New concerns were sparked this week after she was photographed at an event wearing a wig. 

Over the years, Campbell has been photographed with bald spots, which appear to be the result of years of tight hairstyles, weaves, and extensions. 

Well known for her long time use of hair extensions, the British supermodel appears to be dealing with the consequences of the pulling, styling and abuse her follicles have suffered over many years. Common amongst ethnicities 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.