Consult a dermatologist if hairline recession is severe

What to Do

If your hairline has receded significantly or thinning has not improved after 6-12 months of tension-free care, see a dermatologist. They can perform a scalp biopsy or trichoscopy to determine whether the follicles are scarred or still recoverable.

Why It Works

Advanced traction alopecia can cause permanent scarring (cicatricial alopecia), where follicles are replaced by scar tissue and cannot regrow hair. A dermatologist can assess the extent of damage and discuss options like hair transplant surgery for permanently scarred areas.

Tips

• Early intervention is critical — the longer traction continues, the more likely scarring becomes permanent
• Hair transplant surgery can restore a scarred hairline with excellent cosmetic results
• A dermatologist can also rule out other overlapping conditions like frontal fibrosing alopecia