I ripped out my hair from my scalp. Will it grow back?

Question

I have alopecia and I had knots in my hair and pulled to tight on one and ripped it out of my scalp. I was wondering if this could affect any other part of my hair from growing while getting treatments

Scott Reis, MD · Answer

Thanks for the great question. If the hair being pulled out was a one time event, then it should regrow without problem. Repeated pulling however (either mechanical like the first time or even from chronic overly tight braids/hair ties), can damage the hair follicle and result in incomplete regrowth in the affected area. From your question though, it sounds like you may have pre-existing alopecia in at least one other area than the where the hair was pulled out? If this is the case, the cause of the alopecia is important to determine as you may require specialized treatment to optimize regrowth in the areas given the cause of the alopecia. I suggest you consult with a board certified plastic surgeon that routinely performs hair restoration procedures for a full assessment and to discuss the best options for your individual case. Best of luck

Sean Behnam, MD · Answer

A one-time even like that won't have any effects. Only repeated pulling/ripping can cause lasting damage to the hair follicle. You shouldn't have anything to worry about!

William Rassman, MD (retired) · Answer

If it was a one time event, the hair will regrow. If it is a constant recurring event then a condition called traction alopecia occurs

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I ripped out my hair from my scalp. Will it grow back?

Answers (3)

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