03/24/2026
Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition characterized by sudden hair loss, often in patches. It occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles, leading to hair shedding. While the exact cause is not fully understood, genetic and environmental factors may play a role.
Types of Alopecia Areata
1. Alopecia Areata: Patchy hair loss.
2. Alopecia Totalis: Complete loss of hair on the scalp.
3. Alopecia Universalis: Total loss of hair on the scalp and body.
Symptoms
- Round or oval patches of hair loss.
- Changes in the texture or color of hair.
- Tingling or itching in affected areas.
Treatment Options
1. Topical Treatments:
- Corticosteroids: Reduces inflammation and suppresses the immune response.
- Minoxidil (Rogaine): Promotes hair growth; often used alongside corticosteroids.
2. Injections:
- Corticosteroid Injections: Administered directly into the patches to stimulate hair regrowth.
3. Oral Medications:
- Corticosteroids: For severe cases, these may be prescribed to reduce overall immune activity. Newer JAK inhibitor medications are also very effective
- Immunotherapy: Treatments like diphencyprone (DPCP) can provoke an allergic reaction that may promote hair growth.
4. Light Therapy:
- PUVA (Psoralen plus UVA): Combines a medication with ultraviolet light to encourage hair growth.
5. Alternative Therapies:
- Essential Oils: Some users report benefits from certain oils, although scientific support is limited.
- Dietary Changes: A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals may support hair health.
-coining - the practice of creating inflammation somewhere else on scalp to confuse the immune system from attacking the hair follicles in the bald spot π€