Not all people with alopecia areata require treatment; many patients with limited disease will experience spontaneous hair regrowth. For patients who use treatments, there are several options. However, alopecia areata cannot be "cured." As noted above, most patients experience future episodes of hair loss.
For some people, this hair loss is a one-time event. For others, alopecia areata comes and goes and can last a lifetime. Each person may have a different experience with alopecia areata. Some people may regrow hair, while others do not.
About 60% of people with alopecia areata experience the first episode of hair loss before age 20. It is usually followed by hair regrowth. However, it's common for the problem to come back. New bald patches can develop at the same time older ones are regrowing hair.
Scarring alopecia is permanent hair loss due to hair follicle destruction. In nonscarring alopecia, hair may fall out or get thinner, but your hair follicle isn't destroyed. So nonscarring alopecia may be temporary, and your hair can sometimes grow back.
There are several theories regarding triggers for alopecia areata, including previous infections and stress. However, it is also possible that this link may be coincidental, as it has been impossible to identify such triggers in many people affected by alopecia areata.
Good scalp hygiene is crucial to prevent the spread of alopecia areata as well. Use gentle shampoos and conditioners that are free from harsh chemicals. Also, avoid excessive heat styling or tight hairstyles since they can strain the hair follicles. Lastly, protect your scalp from sun exposure.
Scalp massages with essential oils, application of onion or garlic juice, and the use of aloe vera gel are among the home remedies that individuals have explored. Additionally, maintaining a balanced diet contributes to overall health, which can positively impact hair growth.
Emotional stress can also trigger a specific type of alopecia, called alopecia areata. This is characterised by sudden bald patches on the scalp, which can spread to cover the entire head. Again, hair loss caused by alopecia areata is not permanent and often grows back, although sometimes treatment is required.
Testing for vitamin D deficiency should be considered in patients with alopecia due to its high prevalence. While supplementation is controversial, we recommend giving cholecalciferol 50,000 IU once weekly for 12 weeks followed by 2,000 IU daily.
Alopecia areata can be unpredictable. In some people, their hair grows back but falls out again later. In others, their hair grows back and never falls out again. Each case of alopecia areata is unique.
It is possible that emotional stress or an illness can bring on alopecia areata in people who are at risk, but in most cases, there is no obvious trigger.
Hair loss (alopecia) can affect just your scalp or your entire body, and it can be temporary or permanent. It can be the result of heredity, hormonal changes, medical conditions or a normal part of aging. Anyone can lose hair on their head, but it's more common in men.
Alopecia in its own right is not classed as a disability in legal or employment terms. For something to qualify as a disability, it means it has to have a substantial and adverse effect on your ability to carry out normal day to day activities. Alopecia itself does not limit abilities but the mental health impact can.
Corticosteroids: Topical creams or solutions such as betamethasone (Beta-Val), clobetasol (Clobex), fluocinolone, or fluocinonide (Vanos) suppress the immune system and may have temporary benefits for alopecia areata.
Despite its popularity in the media and amongst consumers, biotin has no proven efficacy in hair and nail growth of healthy individuals. Only 1 study has shown decreased levels of biotin in healthy individuals, though this data was confounded by multiple factors, including patient history.
No Visible Pattern. With stress-related shedding, hair falls out evenly all over your scalp instead of in a defined pattern. You'll likely notice more hairs than usual coming out while shampooing, combing, or on your pillow, clothing, and bathroom floor.
Hairstyles that pull the hair tightly (such as braids, hair extensions or tight ponytails). Haircare that may cause damage due to processing (including perms and bleach). Hormonal changes (such as pregnancy, childbirth or menopause). Medical treatment (such as chemotherapy and certain medications).
In conclusion, Vitamin D plays a crucial role in promoting hair growth and overall health. Lack of sunlight can lead to Vitamin D deficiency, contributing to hair loss conditions like alopecia. To prevent this, ensure regular sun exposure, take Vitamin D supplements if needed, and maintain a nutrient-rich diet.
Severe and prolonged hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can cause loss of hair. The loss is diffuse and involves the entire scalp rather than discrete areas. The hair appears uniformly sparse.
Other factors can increase the likelihood of alopecia becoming worse, including stress and illnesses, which can cause a flare-up. Some people might notice that eating certain foods contributes to their hair loss. Physical damage to your hair or scalp can also make your alopecia more likely to worsen.
There is no cure for alopecia areata—only treatment. In mild cases, hair usually grows back, sometimes on its own. However, if treatment is necessary, steroid injections and topical medications may be recommended. But there have been no reliably effective treatments for severe cases of alopecia areata until recently.