Dear Dajiah, I’ve noticed small bald spots forming around my crown. Could this be traction alopecia or something else?

Small circular patches at the crown can come from tension, inflammation, or both. If you love your sleek ponytails or tight braids, your follicles might be crying for a break. Traction alopecia often starts subtly — a few shorter hairs, a thinner patch, a little soreness when you scratch.

The key is to catch it early. Stop all tension styles, massage the area gently with light oil, and avoid direct heat. If the spots don’t start filling in after six to eight weeks, it’s time for a trichologist to step in. Hair loss doesn’t have to be permanent, but ignoring it can be. Your follicles remember how you treat them — so be gentle, sis.