Will my hair grow back after dying and styling too roughly? (Photos)

Question

So I bleached and dyed my hair a couple of times, I’m an 18 year old male, and I have thinned out my hair A LOT on top from ripping it out while styling and bleaching/dying. Will my hair grow back? It has created a good amount of baldness on top of my heads and I’m also noticing some lines of baldness on the sides and back of my head (could this be male pattern baldness?) My mom and dad both have full heads of hair and they are both in their 50s.

Jae Pak, MD · Answer

If you are concerned, it is best to contact your doctor to discuss and determine the cause of your hair loss.

Sanusi Umar, MD · Answer

Whether or not your hair will grow back depends largely on what is causing the hair loss in the first place. I would recommend scheduling a consultation with a dermatologist to address these concerns. Hair bleach works by breaking down the components in hair in order to achieve the desired look. This weakens the hair, which can make it more prone to breakage. Hair loss due to harsh hairstyles (e.g. tight man buns, top knots, braids, etc) is known as traction alopecia. This hair loss typically appears in areas that experience the most pull. It differs from male pattern baldness in that it is a mechanical form of damage that can be reversed in its initial stages. Left untreated, it can result in permanent hair loss. You can learn more about this condition, and possible treatment options, in the link below.

Ben Talei, MD · Answer

Hair loss is mainly due to genetics but can also be caused by high levels of stress and when one experiences traumatic events.
The use of harsh chemicals can also damage your hair on the long run. If using chemicals it is highly recommended to do so with a specialist. 
On the other note there are some "harsh" hair styles than can cause permanent hair loss which we refer to as traction alopecia. This happens in cases when the hair style pulls on your hair too aggressively on an extended and consistent period of time.

Sean Behnam, MD · Answer

If done properly dyeing/bleaching shouldn't affect hair growth long term. Of course, if you did serious damage to your scalp then yes it could have lasting affects on your hair.Ripping your hair out, especially repeatedly, is a bigger cause for concern. But the only way to know whether the effects are permanent is to wait and see how your hair grows back or to see a dermatology who can look more closely.

William Rassman, MD (retired) · Answer

Dying and Bleaching of the hair can damage the hair when it is not performed by a professional person. The damage can extend to the root of the hair making the damage permanent. You might want to see an expert in hair to find out if you permanently damaged your hair

Will my hair grow back after dying and styling too roughly? (Photos)

Answers (5)