Have dreads but I do not recommend having them on for too long.
I've got thick hair, & very long, but this is what will happen, if you do:
Traction alopecia is hair loss that occurs as a result of continuous pulling of the hair. Pulling may occur from hairstyles such as tight cornrows, plaits or braids with or without extensions, weaves, ponytails, dreadlocks, or even hair rollers or curlers, blow drying using round pro brush to straighten your hair. Natural hairstyles can also lead to traction alopecia as well. Long heavy locks and tightly coiled twists can lead to traction alopecia. The hair loss associated with traction alopecia typically occurs at the frontal hairline, at the temples or the area of the scalp above the ears. It may also occur at the posterior hairline. A hair transplant patient friend of mine, damaged his hair permanently by wearing it tightly pulled back in his early 20s.
In the study, 326 African-American women answered questionnaires about their hair-grooming methods, health status, and other demographic information. Dermatologists then performed a scalp examination to grade hair loss.
Nearly 60% of the women showed signs of advanced central hair loss with scarring. The women were also more likely to have type 2 diabetes and bacterial scalp infections, and sport hair styles associated with traction, including braids and weaves, the study showed.
“But hair loss is permanent, meaning that we can inject steroids or creams but it won't bring your hair back, so it’s very important to seek help with dermatologists early on,” she says.
SOLUTION: Teach yourself to create various hairstyles, so they're up or cut them shorter. I can create 7 in a week, takes me 2-10 mins.