How Is CCCA Different from Other Types of Hair Loss?
CCCA is a type of hair loss that can happen to anyone, regardless of gender or race, but is more common in Black women aged 30 to 55.


Before hair loss starts, the hair may feel scaly and have small bumps, which could be a sign of inflammation.
The hair loss begins at the top and middle of the scalp and spreads out in a circle.

Some people may lose hair without any other symptoms, but if symptoms do appear, they can include:
- Burning
- Itching
- Pain
- Tenderness

After hair loss occurs, the area becomes scarred and might feel smooth and shiny.
The name of the condition comes from the pattern of hair loss (central, centrifugal) and the fact that it causes scarring (cicatricial).

Causes
The exact cause of CCCA is not known.
Scientists have found both genetic and environmental factors that may play a role. In CCCA, inflammation damages the hair follicles, which are the tiny pores from which hair grows, replacing them with scar tissue.

Researchers think CCCA can happen when changes to the scalp trigger an immune response that leads to an autoimmune reaction, where the body’s own tissues are mistakenly attacked.
Another possibility is that changes in the PADI3 gene may be linked to CCCA.

Studies have found several factors that may increase the risk of developing CCCA.
These factors do not cause the condition directly but may raise the chances of getting it. These risk factors include:
- Bacterial infection of the scalp
- Using chemical hair relaxers
- Pregnancy
- Traction hairstyles (like cornrows, tight braids, ponytails or updos)
- Type 2 diabetes (where the body becomes less responsive to insulin, leading to high blood sugar)

It’s important to note that many people with these risk factors don’t develop CCCA, and some people with CCCA don’t have these risk factors.
Also, CCCA is not contagious.

Does Treatment Reverse It?

If CCCA is suspected, starting treatment early is better.