Many people with long hair—women and men alike—keep a hair elastic on their wrist for quick access. While convenient, leading dermatologists and neurologists caution that this habit carries real health risks.
Wear a hair tie on your wrist often? New York dermatologist Dr. Dhaval Bhanusali of Hudson Dermatology & Laser Surgery warns of circulation issues. In a March 11, 2021, Huffington Post article, he advised against overtightening the elastic. If the skin turns white and cold, blood flow is restricted—remove it promptly so the mark fades within minutes.
Dr. Huma Sheikh, neurologist at New York's Neurology Medicine Institute, agrees. The wrist houses critical nerves, veins, and tendons that tight bands can compress, causing tingling or numbness. Without quick removal, it risks nerve damage from tetany due to poor blood flow.
Dr. Rina Allawh of Schweiger Dermatology Group in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania, points to allergic skin reactions. Elastics contain rubber, nickel, and dyes that can spark pink, scaly rashes with lingering marks.
Too much pressure may cut the skin, inviting bacterial infections—especially from unwashed bands. For safety, skip wrist wear entirely or choose looser elastics, washing and swapping them regularly.
