Breakdancing, a dynamic and athletic form of dance, has captivated audiences worldwide. Its intricate moves, power, and artistry have made it a cultural phenomenon. However, like any physically demanding activity, breakdancing carries potential risks. While injuries like sprains and fractures are readily acknowledged, a less apparent concern is the potential link between breakdancing and a specific type of hair loss: scarring alopecia – lichen planopilaris.
Scarring alopecia, also known as cicatricial alopecia, is a group of rare disorders that destroy hair follicles and replace them with scar tissue. This irreversible damage leads to permanent hair loss. While genetic predisposition, autoimmune diseases, and infections are well-established causes, external factors like physical trauma can also contribute to its development.
So, how might breakdancing be implicated? The answer lies in the nature of the dance itself. Breakdancing involves numerous ground-based movements, including head spins, windmills, and flares. These manoeuvres subject the scalp to significant friction and pressure against hard surfaces.
A report on a first case of lichen planopilaris (LPP) mimicking androgenetic alopecia (AGA) in an individual who has been break-dancing on his head for many years was published in Journal of Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery..
Yes, breakdancing, particularly when performing head spins, is considered a risk factor for scarring alopecia due to the chronic scalp trauma it can cause, potentially triggering conditions like lichen planopilaris (LPP) which leads to hair loss and scarring on the scalp.