Traction alopecia may over the short run cause temporary hair loss but over time with continued traction the follicles may atrophy leading to permanent hair loss. Tight ponytails and braiding can cause short broken hairs, follicular inflammation, and patchy hair loss. Africans, in particular, wear hairstyles with tight braiding that can lead to
traction alopecia. Hair weaving to maintain a wig or hair system can also lead to further loss in the woven hairs.