A case of cicatricial traction alopecia due to wearing a hairpin

The term "traction alopecia" refers to hair loss resulting from excessive hair pulling, usually on the scalp periphery. The most common causes of traction alopecia are hairstyles that cause tension and use of hair extensions or curlers. Several case reports suggest that the long-term use of a hairpin can also induce traction alopecia. A 39-year old nun presented with asymptomatic severe patches of hair loss on both temples, where hairpins had been applied for 7 ∼ 8 years in conformance with her employment uniform. Histological examination showed absence of hair follicles, and several fibrous tracks replacing hair follicles. Although there was no significant inflammatory response, cicatricial change was evident. To our knowledge, there has been no report of cicatricial traction alopecia induced by hairpin wearing in the Korean literature. Herein, we report a case of cicatricial traction alopecia caused by hairpin wearing and review the relevant literature.