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Imagine this: you add the finishing touch to your hairstyle of the day when you opt for your favorite. edge control product and notice something a little… different. Your edges look a little thinner than you remember. It turns out this scenario happens too often, especially after repeated tight styling.

In general, hair loss and thinning is extremely common, with more than 50 percent of women experiencing some form at some point in their lives, according to Cleveland Clinic. Additionally, a 2018 study found that traction alopecia (TA) affects a third of women of African descent due to styling practices, and it’s usually what causes your contours to lose.

The good news is that there are many ways to regrow your thinning edges. This involves changing your style practices, taking hair growth supplementsor try some shampoos for thinning hair (just to name a few). If you’re ready to give your hair the attention it needs, read on to learn some of the top recommendations from dermatologists.

Meet the experts: Candace SpannMD, is a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Retirement. Pooja RambhiaMD, is a board-certified dermatologist in New York and Connecticut. Kristina CollinsMD, is a board-certified dermatologist in Texas.

What causes hair loss?

Several factors contribute to thinning edges and thinning hair in general. These include:

• Traction alopecia: This refers to the pulling or tension of hair follicles caused by tight hairstyles like braids, ponytails, seams, and buns. “This tension damages the hair follicle, leading to inflammation, weakening of the follicle and eventually hair loss, especially at the edges, which are more fragile,” explains Kristina CollinsMD, board-certified dermatologist in Texas. Over time, the damage can become permanent.

• Postpartum hair loss: This is a temporary shedding that occurs around three to four months after delivery due to hormonal changes. “With the change in postpartum hormones, we might see an increase in excretion,” explains Candace SpannMD, board-certified dermatologist and founder of Retirement. “During this period, it is not uncommon for 30 percent of hair to be shedding instead of the normal 3 percent.” She adds that this type of loss usually occurs around temples.

• Stress: Chronic and temporary stress can lead to hair loss. Temporary thinning and loss of hair can come from traumatic stress from events such as divorce, financial loss, death of a loved one, surgery, serious illness, and weight loss fast (use of Ozempic). may contribute to hair loss), explains Dr. Spann. Chronic stress can trigger telogen effluvium, which causes follicles to transition into the resting phase early, Dr. Collins adds.

• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): PCOS is a health problem caused by an imbalance in reproductive hormones. This causes hormonal changes that can affect hair growth this causes thinning around the hairline, says Dr. Collins. She adds that thyroid imbalances can have similar side effects.

• Nutritional deficiencies: A lack of vitamins and minerals essential for hair growth, such as iron, vitamin D and vitamin B (biotin), can lead to breakage, hair loss and slowed regrowth.

• Scalp conditions: Psoriasis or seborrheic dermatitis are inflammatory conditions of the scalp that can lead to flaking and itching, says Dr. Collins. If you scratch your scalp too much, you can damage your hair follicles, leading to hair loss or breakage.

• Chemical damage: Chemicals typically used to style hair (think relaxers and dyes) can weaken the hair shaft and lead to breakage and thinning of the edges, says Dr. Collins. The same goes for using heat tools.

How to deal with sparse edges

There are many ways to regrow your borders. Here are the five best tips to try, recommended by dermatologists.

1. Adjust your styling practices

While there are many styles considered “protective,” they shouldn’t be left on for more than three weeks, says Dr. Spann. This includes braids, weaves, extensions, and twists because they can put stress on your hair follicles. On top of that, “make sure your braids aren’t too tight and your extensions aren’t too heavy, as the weight will pull on the delicate follicles around the hairline,” she says. “Sleeping every night with a silk scarf or satin bonnet will also cause localized friction as you toss and turn during your sleep, leading to further thinning of the edges.” Instead, try a satin pillowcase to reduce friction.

Ponytails and buns are also common culprits for traction alopecia, says Pooja RambhiaMD, board-certified dermatologist in New York and Connecticut. You should also apply thermal protector before using a straightener or curling iron (low to medium setting) to avoid damage. As for your hair brushesDr. Rambhia suggests opting for a wide-toothed comb or soft-bristled brush to avoid unnecessary pulling.

2. Try over-the-counter products

Before diving headfirst into in-office treatments, consider opting for an over-the-counter product instead. One of the most popular choices recommended by Dr. Rambhia: Minoxidil (found in Rogaine). It is FDA approved and contains a five percent formulation that is clinically proven to stimulate hair growth.

You can also try caffeine-infused products to improve circulation or Vegamour GRO hair serumwhich contains Capixyl and peptides to help block DHT (the hormone linked to hair loss). Ingredients like saw palmetto, found in supplements and topical products, can also block DHT.

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3. Prioritize your scalp health

In short: a clean scalp is a healthy scalp. Ideally, you want to keep it hydrated and stick to gentle care, sulfate-free shampoos and nourishing conditioners, says Dr. Collins. She adds that this also means taking preventative measures, like protecting your scalp from sun damage by wearing hats or products that offer UV protection.

4. Try in-office treatment

There are several in-office hair growth treatments that you can discuss with your dermatologist. “One of the most common in-office treatments is platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy, which involves drawing a small amount of blood, processing it to concentrate the platelets, and then reinjecting it into the scalp” , explains Dr. Rambhia. Doing this treatment monthly stimulates hair follicles, increases blood circulation and promotes growth.

Dr. Rambhia also suggests a low level red light Laser therapy to stimulate hair follicles and increase blood flow and cellular activity in the scalp to promote thickness. For a minimally invasive option, microneedling creates small wounds in the scalp that encourage collagen production. However, if your hair loss is from alopecia areata (a condition that causes the immune system to attack hair follicles), she notes that steroid injections might be the best choice to reduce inflammation and promote regrowth.

5. Change your diet

It may sound too simple to be true, but eating nutrient-dense foods can promote regrowth. Protein, in particular, is essential, since hair is made of keratin (a type of protein). This means foods like eggs, lean meats, tofu, and legumes are your best friends. “Biotin-rich foods like eggs and nuts, iron from spinach and lentils, and zinc from oysters and pumpkin seeds are also important,” says Dr. Rambhia. “Vitamin D, found in fish, and omega-3, found in flaxseed, promote scalp health and hair regeneration.” A balanced diet combined with plenty of water intake and fewer processed foods can lead to stronger hair.

How long does it take for borders to grow back?

It is helpful to follow one or more of the suggestions above, but the time frame for regrowth is different for everyone. “If you follow the recommended suggestions, it may take two to six months to see noticeable improvement,” says Dr. Rambhia. “However, complete regrowth may take a year or more, especially for those with more severe symptoms. hair loss“If you don’t see any changes, contact your doctor to discuss other possible routes.

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