Trichorrhexis nodosa (1246)
Key points below
What is Trichorrhexis Nodosa?
Trichorrhexis Nodosa (TN) is a condition that causes weak points, called nodes, on the hair shaft. The weak points allow chemicals and physical stress to easily damage the hair. This can make the hair break off easily.What causes it?
- TN may run in families. Triggers like blow-drying, over-brushing, perming, straightening, hot combs, chemical use, and tight hats can set off TN.
- Another type of TN occurs in healthy hair. Damage from too much brushing or shampooing, coloring, and especially the use of hot combs and perming cause the hair to break. Swimming in salt-water and sun exposure can also be a cause.
How does it affect my child?
Your child’s hair may seem to be dry, dull and not growing. It breaks easily, leaving broken ends and areas of hair loss.
How is it diagnosed?
A dermatologist will look at your child’s hair under a microscope. They look for spots where the hair shaft looks like two brooms pushed end to end at the weak point. This is called the broom sign. Signs, symptoms and history also help with the diagnosis.
How is it treated?
Some types of TN will improve if you stop hair straightening, harsh brushing, heat and chemical trauma to the hair. This can take several months. In some cases it may take years to improve. Treat hair very gently. Avoid tight braids. Cream rinses and protein conditioners, such as Nioxin® are helpful. You may need to get these products from a hair salon.