Alopecia Areata

Understanding Alopecia Areata: Causes, Treatment Options, and Hope

Alopecia Areata (AA) is an autoimmune disease that causes patchy hair loss on the scalp, beard, or eyebrows.

These patches are typically round and smooth, about the size of a coin.

What’s Happening Inside?

AA occurs when your immune system mistakenly attacks healthy hair follicles. White blood cells gather around the follicles, disrupting hair growth and leading to the characteristic bald patches.

The Good News: Potential for Regrowth

Unlike some other hair loss conditions, the hair follicles in AA are not permanently damaged. If the autoimmune activity subsides, these follicles can resume normal hair growth.

Treatment Options: Considering Your Needs

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to AA treatment. The best course of action depends on the severity and your individual preferences. Here are some options to discuss with your doctor:

• Watchful Waiting: AA often resolves on its own. In some cases, simply monitoring the condition might be the best approach.

• Steroid Injections: For stubborn patches or to accelerate hair regrowth, steroid injections can be helpful.

• Topical Treatments: Certain creams and solutions applied to the scalp may promote hair regrowth in some patients.

Hair Transplants and AA: Weighing the Risks

Hair transplants are not typically recommended for active AA. Since the immune system is still attacking hair follicles, transplanted hair could fall out as well.

Hope for the Future:

If your AA becomes inactive for several months or years, a scalp biopsy can confirm this. Following successful scalp biopsy results, a small test hair transplant can be performed. If the test shows good growth, a full hair transplant might be a viable option for achieving a fuller head of hair.

Hope and Options for Managing Alopecia Areata

Alopecia Areata can be a surprising and emotional experience. However, it’s important to remember that you’re not alone. AA is a treatable condition, and many people experience complete hair regrowth.

We’ve explored the causes, treatment options, and the potential for hair transplants with AA. If you’re experiencing hair loss, it’s crucial to consult a doctor to receive an accurate diagnosis and discuss the best course of action for you.

Alopecia Areata is just one of many types of hair loss. Concord Hair Restoration is here to help you understand your specific situation and explore solutions. Contact us today for a free consultation in Los Angeles or San Diego. Let’s work together to find the path to managing your hair loss and regaining your confidence.