“Because a weave or extensions often require women to wear their natural hair tightly pulled, this can be tough on hair,” says board-certified dermatologist Shani Francis, MD, MBA, FAAD. “The constant pulling can cause strands of hair to break or fall out, and it could damage your hair follicles. Once the hair follicles are damaged, your hair cannot grow back, leading to permanent hair loss. Fortunately, women can help avoid these issues by taking a few precautions before, during and after wearing these styles.”

To prevent hair damage from a weave or extensions, Dr. Francis recommends the following tips: