Cornrows, braids, or canerows in the Caribbean, are an ancient traditional African hairstyle of hair grooming where the hair is braided very close to the scalp, using an underhand, upward motion to produce a continuous, raised row. Cornrows is also a hairstyle found among different Native American cultures. Cornrows are often formed in simple, straight lines, as the name implies, but they can also be formed in complicated geometric or curvilinear designs. Often favored for their easy maintenance, rows can be left in for weeks at a time if maintained through careful washing of the hair and regular oiling of the scalp. Cornrowed hairstyles are sometimes adorned with beads or cowry shells. Depending on the region of the world, cornrows are typically worn by either men or women, or by both. Braids pulled too tight or worn for considerable lengths of time can cause a type of hair loss known as traction alopecia.