Religious Headwear and Alopecia: Considerations for Dermatologists

The article discusses the association between religious headwear and alopecia, particularly traction alopecia, which results from tension on the hair and scalp due to how headwear is styled and secured. Although there is limited scientific research directly linking religious headwear to alopecia, the authors draw on personal experiences and existing discourse to provide recommendations for mitigating alopecia risk while respecting religious practices. The article highlights specific concerns for different religious groups, such as hijab-related alopecia in Muslim women, sheitel-related alopecia in Orthodox Jewish women, and turban alopecia in Sikh men. Recommendations include altering headwear styling techniques and being mindful of cultural sensitivities to effectively address and prevent headwear-associated alopecia.