Understanding Alopecia Areata: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Understanding the causes, symptoms, and available treatments is crucial for managing Alopecia Areata effectively.

Alopecia Areata is a common autoimmune condition that leads to sudden hair loss, often in small, round patches on the scalp. Affecting millions of people worldwide, this condition can impact not only your physical appearance but also your confidence and emotional well-being. Whether you've noticed a few small bald spots or are experiencing more widespread hair loss, understanding the causes, symptoms, and available treatments is crucial for managing Alopecia Areata effectively. In this blog, we'll explore everything you need to know about this condition and how you can take control of your hair health.

What is Alopecia Areata?

Alopecia areata is a common type of non-scarring hair loss that affects millions of people worldwide. This condition is characterised by patchy hair loss, typically resulting in bald spots that range from 1-4 cm in diameter. Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disorder, meaning that the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the hair follicles on the scalp, face, or other areas of the body, such as the underarms or legs. This condition can affect individuals of any age, gender, or skin tone and often begins in childhood, though it can develop later in life as well.

There are three main types of alopecia areata: patchy alopecia areata (bald spots on the scalp), alopecia totalis (complete baldness of the scalp), and alopecia universalis (loss of all body hair). Other less common types include alopecia ophiasis, which causes a large strip of hair loss on the scalp, and alopecia barbae, which results in patchy facial hair loss. While there is currently no cure for alopecia areata, various treatment options are available to manage the condition and promote hair regrowth. Consulting with an experienced dermatologist at Dunedin Medical & Aesthetics Clinic can help tailor a treatment plan that addresses your specific needs.

What Causes Hair Loss in Alopecia Areata?

Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakenly targets hair follicles, leading to hair loss. While the exact cause of alopecia areata is still unknown, it is believed to be influenced by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Those with a family history of alopecia areata may have an increased risk, although not everyone with the condition has a family history. Additionally, individuals with other autoimmune disorders or allergic conditions, such as eczema, vitiligo, thyroid disease, or atopic dermatitis, are more likely to develop alopecia areata.

Symptoms of Alopecia Areata

The most prominent symptom of alopecia areata is hair loss, but depending on the type, other symptoms may include:

• Nail pitting

• Loss of body hair (underarms, legs)

• Bald patches on the scalp

• Patches of hair loss in one area and regrowth in another

• Itching or burning sensation in affected areas

While these are common symptoms, a confirmed diagnosis can only be made by a healthcare professional. At Dunedin Medical & Aesthetics Clinic, we provide comprehensive evaluations for hair loss. During your consultation, a thorough medical and family history will be taken, and your scalp and hair will be carefully assessed. Additional tests, such as scalp biopsies or blood work, may be conducted to rule out other conditions.

Is Alopecia Treatable? Which Treatment is Best for Alopecia Areata?

While there is no cure for alopecia areata, various treatment options are available to manage hair loss. The best treatment plan depends on several factors, including your age, the severity of hair loss, and whether any other conditions, such as eczema, accompany your alopecia.

At Dunedin Medical & Aesthetics Clinic, we tailor treatment plans to meet your unique needs. Treatment options may include intralesional corticosteroids, topical steroids, and oral or topical Minoxidil. For more severe cases, topical immunotherapy might be recommended. While few treatments are specifically FDA-approved for alopecia areata, many 'off-label' options have shown success in promoting hair regrowth.

Which Steroid is Used for Alopecia Areata?

Intralesional corticosteroids are a widely preferred treatment for alopecia areata, particularly for those experiencing patchy hair loss. These powerful anti-inflammatory medications help stimulate hair regrowth by targeting the immune system's attack on hair follicles. Multiple treatment sessions may be necessary to achieve optimal results, with each session typically spaced about four weeks apart. During follow-up visits at Dunedin Medical & Aesthetics Clinic, your progress will be closely monitored to ensure effective hair regrowth and overall scalp health. Depending on the severity and type of alopecia areata, additional treatment options may include oral steroids or topical steroids applied as ointments, foams, or creams. While oral steroids can come with side effects like weight gain, mood changes, and blurred vision, topical steroids are often recommended for children or in cases where large areas of the scalp are affected.

Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) for Treating Hair Loss

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) is an innovative and non-surgical approach to treating hair loss in both women and men. PRP therapy utilises your own blood cells, enriched with proteins, to naturally stimulate hair follicles and promote hair growth. The process begins with drawing a small amount of your blood, which is then spun in a centrifuge to separate the PRP from other components. The concentrated platelets, now three times the normal blood value, are then carefully injected into the scalp in areas experiencing thinning or hair loss. This treatment does not require any medications before or after the procedure, making it a straightforward and natural option.

PRP is particularly effective for those who are not candidates for hair transplant surgery or prefer a less invasive solution. It can help stimulate new hair growth for individuals suffering from androgenetic alopecia (commonly known as male or female pattern baldness). The entire procedure takes around 30 minutes, from drawing the blood to injecting the PRP into the scalp.

One of the key reasons PRP has gained popularity is its natural approach to restoring hair without the side effects associated with oral medications. PRP can also complement hair transplant surgery, accelerating hair growth and improving overall results. Typically, PRP treatments are recommended every four weeks for the first three sessions, with further evaluations conducted after the fourth month to assess progress.

At Dunedin Medical & Aesthetics Clinic, a comprehensive analysis of your hair and blood may be performed to determine the underlying cause of hair loss. This is especially important for women who may experience hair loss due to hormonal changes, such as hypothyroidism or premature menopause.

Which Topical Treatment is Best for Alopecia Areata?

Topical Minoxidil, commonly known as Rogaine, is often recommended by dermatologists as an off-label treatment for alopecia areata, despite its initial FDA approval being for androgenetic alopecia. Minoxidil is believed to work by accelerating the hair growth cycle, extending the anagen (growth) phase, and increasing blood circulation to hair follicles. Consistent daily use is essential for achieving and maintaining results, with potential side effects including mild scalp irritation. Another topical treatment, Anthralin (Dritho-Scalp), is used to reduce inflammation at the hair follicle base. Applied to the affected area for a specific duration, Anthralin helps control inflammation, although it must be used carefully to avoid irritation on healthy skin.

Oral Minoxidil for Treating Alopecia Areata

Oral Minoxidil, originally approved for treating high blood pressure, has shown promise in preventing and treating hair loss, including alopecia areata, when used in low doses. Although not FDA-approved specifically for alopecia areata, oral Minoxidil is often combined with other treatments like intralesional cortisone injections to enhance hair regrowth. It works by improving blood circulation to the scalp, thickening hair follicles, and prolonging the growth phase. The full effects of oral Minoxidil typically take 6 to 12 months to become apparent, making it a long-term commitment for those seeking to combat hair loss.

Is Alopecia Areata Contagious? Will It Spread?

Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disease that is not contagious and does not spread from person to person. It typically begins with patchy hair loss on the scalp but can also affect other areas like the eyebrows or beard. While some cases resolve on their own, more severe forms can lead to complete hair loss on the scalp (alopecia totalis) or the entire body (alopecia universalis). Early and targeted treatment by a board-certified dermatologist can help prevent progression and promote hair regrowth.

How to Stop Alopecia Areata from Spreading

The best approach to managing and treating alopecia areata is to consult with an experienced board-certified dermatologist as soon as symptoms appear. At Dunedin Medical & Aesthetics Clinic, we offer comprehensive evaluations, including medical and family history assessments, scalp examinations, and necessary tests to diagnose and treat hair loss effectively. Our customized treatment plans are designed to address your specific needs and prevent further hair loss, helping you regain confidence and restore your hair.

Will Alopecia Areata Go Away?

Alopecia areata is a chronic autoimmune condition, meaning it doesn’t have a permanent cure. While the symptoms can be managed with various treatment options, the disease may flare up again even after successful treatment and hair regrowth. In mild cases, hair loss patches might resolve on their own without intervention, but the best results are often achieved through non-invasive treatments offered by dermatologists. At Dunedin Medical & Aesthetics Clinic, we provide personalised treatment plans to help prevent hair loss and encourage hair regrowth, tailored to each patient’s unique needs.

Does Alopecia Areata Grow Back?

Yes, hair loss due to alopecia areata can grow back, particularly in cases where only a few patches are affected. Some individuals may achieve full restoration and never experience another episode. However, because alopecia areata is a chronic condition, many patients may experience recurring episodes of hair loss throughout their lives. In such cases, timely intervention by an experienced dermatologist can help prevent further hair loss and promote new growth, though it may take several weeks for the treatment to show results.

Is Alopecia Areata Permanent?

Alopecia areata does not have a cure, making it a chronic condition. However, with proper treatment, many patients can see significant hair regrowth. Since hair loss due to alopecia areata can be unpredictable, discontinuing treatment may lead to a relapse. Ongoing monitoring and adjustments to the treatment plan by a dermatologist are essential for managing the condition effectively.

Does Alopecia Areata Cause Hair Loss or Thinning?

Yes, alopecia areata causes hair loss, which can present as distinct bald patches or diffuse thinning across the entire scalp. It’s a common autoimmune disease that affects millions of people and can manifest in various ways. Consulting with a dermatologist is crucial for diagnosing the specific type of alopecia and determining the best treatment approach.

Why Does Alopecia Areata Happen? What Are the Risk Factors?

Alopecia areata occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles, leading to hair loss. It can affect people of any age, gender, or race and often starts in childhood. While the exact cause is unknown, some risk factors include a family history of the condition and having other autoimmune disorders like vitiligo or lupus. Genetics and environmental factors both play a role in the development of alopecia areata.

Is Alopecia Genetic? Is Alopecia Areata Hereditary?

Alopecia areata can be hereditary, as it has been found to run in some families. Individuals with a family history of the condition may be at a higher risk of developing it. However, not everyone with alopecia areata has a family history, indicating that environmental factors also contribute to its onset.

Which Shampoo is Best for Alopecia Areata?

There is no universal shampoo guaranteed to prevent hair loss or stimulate regrowth in alopecia areata patients. The key is to find a gentle, nourishing shampoo with anti-inflammatory ingredients like tea tree oil that may benefit the scalp.

Understanding the Difference Between Scarring and Non-Scarring Alopecia

Non-Scarring Alopecia

Non-scarring alopecia refers to hair loss that occurs without permanent damage to the hair follicles. This type of hair loss, including conditions like androgenetic alopecia (commonly known as male or female pattern baldness), telogen effluvium (often triggered by stress), and tinea capitis (a fungal infection), generally allows for the possibility of hair regrowth. The hair follicles remain intact, meaning that with appropriate treatment, patients have the potential to regain lost hair.

Scarring Alopecia

Scarring alopecia, also known as cicatricial alopecia, involves the destruction of hair follicles, which are replaced with scar tissue, leading to permanent hair loss. This type of alopecia is less common, affecting about 3% of those experiencing hair loss. It can result from various inflammatory conditions, including Lupus, Lichen Planus, and Acne Keloidalis Nuchae. The onset of scarring alopecia may be gradual, with symptoms like itching, burning, and pain, or it can progress rapidly, leading to noticeable patches of hair loss. Unfortunately, Dr. Green does not treat scarring alopecia, but understanding its nature is crucial for anyone seeking help for hair loss.

Treatment Options for Scarring Alopecia

Treating scarring alopecia requires an aggressive approach due to the irreversible damage to the hair follicles. Treatment strategies vary based on the specific diagnosis and may include corticosteroids, antimalarial drugs, isotretinoin, and more experimental therapies like Methotrexate and Tacrolimus. In cases where scarring alopecia has stabilized, surgical options like hair transplants may be considered. However, these treatments are best discussed with a specialist who focuses on scarring alopecia, as Dr. Green does not offer treatment for this condition.

Traction Alopecia

Traction alopecia is a form of hair loss caused by hairstyles that exert excessive tension on the hair, such as tight ponytails, braids, and buns. This condition is particularly common among individuals who regularly wear their hair in such styles, including professionals like ballerinas and gymnasts. If treated early, traction alopecia can be reversed; however, if left untreated, it may lead to permanent hair loss due to scarring of the hair follicles.

Does Stress Cause Alopecia?

Yes, stress can contribute to several types of hair loss, including telogen effluvium, trichotillomania, and alopecia areata. Telogen effluvium is often triggered by physical or emotional stress and leads to temporary hair shedding. Trichotillomania is a psychological disorder where individuals compulsively pull out their hair, potentially leading to permanent hair loss. Alopecia areata, an autoimmune condition, can also be exacerbated by stress. Consulting with an experienced dermatologist is essential for managing stress-related hair loss effectively.

Does Alopecia Itch?

Hair loss can sometimes be accompanied by an itching sensation, particularly in conditions involving inflammation or infection, such as psoriasis or fungal infections. Itchy scalp and hair loss can also result from scar tissue formation following permanent hair loss. If you're experiencing an itchy scalp or hair loss, it's important to consult with a dermatologist like Dr. Green, who can assess your condition and recommend appropriate treatment.

How Common Is Alopecia?

Alopecia is quite common, affecting millions of people worldwide. Androgenetic alopecia, the most prevalent form, impacts around 50 million men and 30 million women in the United States alone. Alopecia areata, another common type, affects nearly seven million people in the U.S. Although less common, some individuals may experience more severe forms like alopecia totalis or alopecia universalis.

Is Alopecia Cancer?

No, alopecia is not cancer. Hair loss can occur for a variety of reasons, including as a side effect of certain cancer treatments like chemotherapy, but it is not itself a form of cancer. Hair loss can be related to underlying health conditions, medication side effects, or simply part of the natural aging process. If you experience unusual hair loss, it’s advisable to consult with a dermatologist to determine the cause and explore potential treatments.

Is Alopecia an Autoimmune Disease?

Alopecia areata is a type of hair loss triggered by an autoimmune response, where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy hair follicles. The National Alopecia Areata Foundation estimates that nearly 7 million people in the United States are affected by this condition. As a chronic autoimmune disease, alopecia areata does not have a cure. However, various topical, oral, and in-clinic treatments can manage hair loss and promote regrowth. Typically, this condition begins as patchy hair loss on the scalp, but it can also affect other areas such as the eyebrows or beard. In more severe cases, it can progress to complete hair loss on the scalp (alopecia totalis) or even the entire body (alopecia universalis).

Alopecia areata can affect anyone, regardless of age, race, or gender, though it commonly develops before the age of 30. Some individuals may experience spontaneous hair regrowth, while others might face more extensive hair loss. While the exact cause remains unknown, factors such as a family history of autoimmune conditions or having other autoimmune diseases like psoriasis, thyroid disease, or vitiligo can increase the risk of developing alopecia areata. At Dunedin Medical & Aesthetics Clinic, we offer tailored treatment plans that may include topical treatments, PRP injections, and intralesional cortisone injections to help promote hair regrowth.

Can Alopecia Be Cured? Is There a Cure for Alopecia?

Alopecia refers to hair loss, which can be either temporary or permanent, depending on the type. Alopecia areata is a chronic autoimmune condition with no cure, but it can be effectively managed with various treatment options. The best treatment plan for you will depend on factors such as your age, the severity and type of alopecia, and whether conditions like eczema or atopic dermatitis are also present. During your consultation at Dunedin Medical & Aesthetics Clinic, we will work with you to create a customised treatment plan, incorporating a combination of topicals, oral medications, supplements, and in-clinic treatments like corticosteroid or PRP injections to prevent further hair loss and encourage new hair growth.

How to Get Started with Hair Loss Treatment Today

Alopecia areata is a common form of hair loss, affecting millions of people worldwide. Hair loss can be a distressing experience, impacting self-esteem and confidence. Fortunately, there are effective treatment options available at Dunedin Medical & Aesthetics Clinic that can prevent further hair loss and promote regrowth. If you're seeking a long-term solution for hair loss, we're here to help.

Our clinic provides personalised treatment protocols that include a combination of in-clinic procedures, topical treatments, and oral medications or supplements, depending on your specific needs. To start your journey toward healthier hair, schedule a consultation at Dunedin Medical & Aesthetics Clinic. We are committed to helping you find the best solution to your hair loss concerns.