Trichologist warns: trendy hairstyle linked to crown breakage

Recent social media commentary from a practising trichologist has put a spotlight on how certain fashionable hairstyles may be contributing to hair breakage around the crown. Trichologist Rachel Valentine shared on TikTok that she recently saw two clients presenting with similar breakage at the crown — an early warning sign many hair professionals associate with repeated stress to the hair shaft and follicle. This article unpacks what those signs mean, why crown breakage occurs, and practical steps to protect hair health while keeping stylish.

What the trichologist observed

According to the social post, the two clients presented with concentrated breakage at the crown area. While that specific report does not name a single stylistic culprit, hair professionals often recognise a pattern: repeated tension, friction or concentrated styling at the same spot can cause visible thinning or breakage. The trichologist’s observation is a reminder that trends that look great on the surface can sometimes place undue mechanical stress on fragile hair, particularly at the crown where hair changes direction and is more vulnerable.

Understanding repeated stress and traction

Breakage at the crown can arise from a handful of mechanical and chemical factors. In haircare practice, professionals describe two related processes:

• Traction: continuous pulling from tight ponytails, buns, braids, extensions or accessories that tug at the same hairline or parting over time.
• Repeated mechanical stress: friction from brushing, styling tools or rubbing against clothing that weakens the hair shaft, causing it to snap rather than shed naturally.

These processes are more likely to cause localised thinning than general shedding. The crown is a common hotspot because the hair there often changes growth direction and can be weaker at the shaft. Chemical processing, heat styling and aggressive brushing can exacerbate the problem by making hair more brittle and less able to withstand tension.

How to reduce risk and care for stressed hair

Protecting the crown means both adjusting styling habits and supporting hair strength. Simple, consistent changes can prevent further damage and encourage healthier regrowth.

• Loosen up styles: favour softer, low-tension looks. Replace tight ponytails and high buns with looser, lower placements, or try loose twists and clipped styles that don’t pull the same area repeatedly.
• Alternate your parting: switching where you part your hair distributes friction and tension more evenly across follicles, reducing concentrated stress at the crown.
• Choose gentle accessories: use soft fabric scrunchies, coil-free elastics or hair clips instead of tight rubber bands or metal clips that dig into the hair.
• Limit heat and harsh processing: reduce frequency of hot tools and high-strength chemical treatments, and always use heat protection when styling.
• Be mindful when brushing: detangle from ends upward with a wide-tooth comb or paddle brush designed for wet or fragile hair. Avoid yanking through knots.
• Nourish and strengthen: introduce hydrating conditioners and occasional protein treatments if hair feels limp or weak. A balanced routine can improve elasticity and reduce snapage.
• Seek professional assessment: if you spot persistent thinning or patches of breakage, consult a trichologist or dermatologist — early assessment can help identify reversible causes and appropriate treatments.

These measures focus on reducing mechanical stress while supporting the hair’s resilience. For those who love trend-led looks, trialling looser variations or protective alternatives can keep the aesthetic without risking damage.

How to spot early warning signs

Early intervention matters. Look out for:

• Localised thinning or a visible reduction in density at the crown.
• Short, snapped hairs around a parting or hairline that feel brittle to the touch.
• Scalp tenderness, redness or inflammation in the area — these can be signs of irritation from tension.

Keeping photos of your hair over time can help you spot gradual changes that are easy to miss day to day. If you notice a change, pause the styling method you suspect and give the area a two- to three-month break to assess recovery.

Takeaway

Trichologists and hair professionals increasingly flag trend-led styling when they repeatedly see similar patterns of crown breakage. The good news is that many cases stem from mechanical stress and can be addressed by softening styling techniques, alternating partings and using gentler accessories. Monitor changes closely and seek professional advice if thinning persists — early adaptation gives you the best chance of preserving hair health without abandoning your personal style.