Considerations and recommendations on camouflage in alopecia in Black women

Abstract

Alopecia is among the leading dermatological concerns affecting Black women. For many women, hair is a central component of identity and self-expression, the loss of which can have significant psychosocial effects. Hair camouflage is often utilized to minimize the visibility of hair loss, provide aesthetic benefits, and improve quality of life. The versatility and affordability of hair camouflage allows patients with alopecia to conceal hair loss, increasing self-confidence, and decreasing social stigma. However, hair camouflage practices often involve adhesives, chemicals, and/or high-tension braiding, all of which can exacerbate alopecia. Accordingly, special considerations should be made to protect patients’ natural hair from damage while using these styling practices. A better understanding of best practices for some of the most widely used camouflage options—wigs, extensions, topical hair fibers, and micropigmentation—can help clinicians establish rapport with Black women and optimize individually-tailored therapeutic plans during active treatment and end-stage hair loss.