Traction alopecia and other disorders related to mechanical pulling on hair are treated or prevented by administering a topical composition comprising an alpha-1 adrenergic receptor agonist or another compound or electrical stimulation to contract the arrector pili muscle. Compositions and methods are disclosed herein for the treatment and prevention of hair loss disorders caused at least in part by repeated application of tensile force to hair, including, without limitation, traction alopecia. Such disorders may be treated or prevented by the application to the hair follicle or scalp of a compound or agent that induces contraction of the arrector pili (AP) muscle, such as, without limitation, alpha 1 adrenergic receptor agonists (AIAR agonists).
