Frictional alopecia

Frictional alopecia is the

Frictional alopecia causes hair loss secondary to frequent rubbing of the hair.^[3]

Causes

Frictional alopecia is a non-scarring

Friction alopecia, when self-inflicting, is called trichoteiromania, a psychiatric condition marked by obsessive hair rubbing.[4]

Friction alopecia can be brought on by something rubbing against hairs repeatedly. It has been reported in the distribution of socks and shoes on the lower extremities of men,^[5] on the back of the lower extremities from water slides,^[6] in gymnasts performing head stands and rollovers on the balance beam,^[7] and in a jogger with a tight-banded headphone on her scalp.^[8]

When no frictional etiology can be identified, associations with peripheral nerve disease, thyroid dysfunction, and

Histology reveals no abnormal alterations.[11] Alopecia areata is a significant differential diagnosis. It is possible to distinguish between the two entities using dermoscopy.^[12]

Treatment

Reassurance and avoiding the trigger factor are part of the treatment for frictional alopecia.^[12]

References