BEAUTY: TRACTION ALOPECIA IN AFRICAN-AMERICAN WOMEN IS EASILY PREVENTABLE. Dr. Joshua Fox, leading dermatologist in the New York area, and founder and president of the New Age Research Foundation: “Nearly one-third of African-American women and more than 17 percent of African-American girls ages 6-21 will lose their hair due to a condition known as traction alopecia. By simply changing their hair care and styling practices, many of these girls and women will be able to retain and enjoy their hair for years to come. Traction alopecia is a condition most commonly seen in the African-American population and is caused by specific hair styling practices, including tight braids, cornrows or weaves, as well as the use of chemical hair straighteners, dyes or bleaches. An estimated three-quarters of African-American females straighten their hair. Ironically, the very hair care and styling practices designed to improve their appearance can actually cause these young girls and women to lose their hair and feel that they no longer look as good as they want to.”