Tips on how to combat a receding hairline

POLOKWANE – Many African women suffer from hair-loss and receding hairlines to varying degrees. The result of hair loss can result in low self-esteem as well negative self-perception.

BONUS spoke to Tebogo Manaka (25), a self-taught hair stylist about ways to stop the breakage.

Tebogo lives in Ga-Thoka, outside Solomondale and works from home but offers door to door services when needed. She has worked in the industry since her high school days and says today, it pays her bills.

With a growing client base, the 25-year-old plans to open a salon and is currently enrolled in a beauty course which she believes will enhance her skills. Not only is she an entrepreneur, she is also a proud mother of two.

She shared a few tips on how to combat hair loss specifically among African women.

According to Tebogo, receding hairlines are the result of hair being braided too tightly. She says women who change styles often and those who aren’t aware of just how tight their plaits are most at risk as the practice takes its toll on the hair.

She recommends protective styling, styles that keep hair moisturised and shielded from harsh weather (especially in winter), is the best way to keep hair strong and the hairline from receding. In addition, protective styling reduces breakage. By taking this advice to heart, your hair will stay strong and grow back thicker.

“Most women do not realise this but when they pull their hair too tight, it causes the hair to break and fall off. Also, when the hair is too tight, that’s when the itching will start and dandruff will develop. Simple cornrows with added fibre or with natural hair such as straight-back, twists and braids can help protect the hair from breaking and getting damaged. Hair also needs to be washed at least once a week to prevent dirt from building up which will result in excessive scratching and that will damage the root of the hair,” Tebogo concludes.

reporter23@nmgroup.co.za