Many people experience an uncomfortable headache after putting their hair up in a ponytail, bun, or braid. This common sensation, often called an external compression headache or ponytail headache, arises from the scalp’s physiological response to tension.
The Scalp’s Sensitivity
The scalp is a highly sensitive area, densely packed with nerves and blood vessels. These sensory nerves transmit signals to the brain. When hair is pulled back tightly, it creates tension on the hair follicles, which are embedded in this sensitive scalp tissue. This pulling action irritates the nerve endings surrounding the follicles, leading to pain.
This pain is a form of allodynia, where a normal stimulus like hair being pulled is perceived as painful. The sustained tension on the pericranial muscles and nerves, which are the muscles and nerves covering the skull, can also contribute to this discomfort. Individuals who are already prone to tension headaches or migraines may experience this phenomenon more intensely, as their nervous systems might be more sensitive to such stimuli. The headache typically resolves within an hour of removing the source of pressure.
Hairstyles That Trigger Pain
Specific hairstyles are more likely to cause this pain due to the amount of tension and pressure they exert on the scalp. High, tight ponytails and slicked-back buns are common culprits, as they pull a large section of hair tautly away from the scalp, creating significant traction on the hair follicles. Braids, especially those that are tightly woven close to the scalp, such as cornrows or French braids, can also lead to similar discomfort.
Hair extensions can also trigger headaches, often due to excessive tension from being applied too tightly or if the added weight of the extensions strains the natural hair and scalp. Poor installation or uneven weight distribution can create pressure points, leading to discomfort. Even accessories like tight headbands or heavy clips can cause external compression headaches by applying sustained pressure to specific areas of the scalp.
Strategies for Prevention and Relief
Minimizing tension on the scalp helps prevent headaches from hair being up. Choosing looser hairstyles, such as low ponytails, relaxed braids, or loose buns, can significantly reduce the pulling sensation. Using softer hair ties, like fabric scrunchies, instead of thin elastic bands can help distribute pressure more evenly and prevent hair from being pulled too tightly. Varying the position of your hairstyle throughout the day, or taking breaks by letting your hair down, allows the scalp and nerves to recover from sustained tension.
When a headache does occur, immediate relief can often be found by simply taking your hair down. Gently massaging the scalp in the painful area can increase blood flow and help soothe irritated nerves. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen, may also be used if the discomfort persists. Staying well-hydrated and ensuring adequate sleep can also contribute to overall headache prevention, as these factors can influence scalp sensitivity.
When to Consult a Doctor
While headaches caused by hairstyles are generally harmless and resolve once the tension is removed, there are instances when medical attention may be appropriate. If the headaches are severe, occur suddenly, or are accompanied by unusual symptoms like confusion, fever, stiff neck, double vision, numbness, or weakness in any part of the body, it is important to seek emergency care. If headaches become more frequent or severe, worsen despite removing the trigger, or interfere with daily activities, consulting a healthcare provider is advisable. These instances may suggest an underlying condition unrelated to hair tension that warrants professional evaluation.