MOLLY-Mae Hague is at risk of going partially bald, according to a trichologist.
The reality star's signature hairstyle – a slicked-back bun – means she is more likely to suffer from traction alopecia.
The condition is a form of hair loss caused by strain on the follicles – like when you scrape back your tresses.
It can make your precious locks fall out in large chunks, causing bald patches.
Arran Isherwood, senior trichological specialist at FUE Clinics, said: "Gaining popularity in the summer of 2022 thanks to Hailey Bieber sporting the look, it would be hard to imagine that this sleek style could cause damage to the hair.
"However, tight, slicked-back buns that pull on your roots can cause traction alopecia – a form of hair loss caused by repeated hair pulling.
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"With the amount of tugging that happens when you put your hair up like this, it's no surprise that it can cause breakage or even bald patches."
Molly-Mae has been a fan of the slick bun since the birth of her daughter Bambi.
The 24-year-old switched her messy Love Island top knot for the sleeker do earlier this year.
The style is also favoured by Hailey Bieber, Sofia Richie and Bella Hadid.
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And TikTok is flooded with tutorials on how to achieve the perfect do, with the "slick bun" hashtag amassing more than 222million views.
As well as hair loss, other signs of traction alopecia include an itchy scalp, pimples and patches of shiny, scarred skin.
If diagnosed early, it is not usually permanent and can be reversed by avoiding putting strain on the hair.
Arran said: "Thankfully, traction alopecia can be resolved if the problem is recognised quickly and tight hairstyles like braids, cornrows, high ponytails, and sleek buns are avoided.
"In time, hair follicles will grow back.
"However, if diagnosed too late, hair follicles may be destroyed, meaning regrowth is not possible."
A sleek bun is said to be particularly problematic as it often involves combing the hair into place and keeping it taut with gel.
What is traction alopecia?
TRACTION alopecia is hair loss caused by strain on the hair follicles, often from tight hairstyles.
The most common problem styles are:
- Tight ones, like dreadlocks, braids, cornrows, ponytails and buns
- Hair extensions and weaves
- Tight headwear, such as helmets, hair grips or elastic bands
- Very long hair
- Hair relaxers and other chemical treatments
- Extensions and relaxers together
It can happen in any area where the hair is under strain, including the top of the head and the beard area.
It is fairly common among ballet dancers and other sports professionals who have to wear tight hairstyles for long periods.
As well as hair loss, other signs of traction alopecia include:
- Pimples, redness, itching, and ulcers on the scalp
- Patches of thin or broken hair in places where the hair has been under strain
- Patches of shiny, scarred skin
It is diagnosed by using your medical history, styling habits, a scalp examination and biopsy.
If identified early, it is not usually permanent and can be reversed by avoiding tight hairstyles.
Source: British Association of Dermatologists and Alopecia UK
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