Alopecia Areata is one of the most common causes of hair loss in the UK. With studies suggesting it affects 1 in every 100 people. It is also the most common condition we see among women booking a consultation with us.
In our recent Hair Solved Customer Survey, 27% of participants identified with having some form of alopecia.
There are a number of different types of alopecia. In this blog we are going to focus on Alopecia Areata. If you have any specific questions or concerns about alopecia after reading our blog, don’t hesitate to get in touch with one of our trained hair loss specialists.
What are the symptoms of Alopecia Areata (AA)?
People suffering from AA often experience sudden, dramatic and recurring hair loss. It affects children, men and women. It causes hair to fall out in patches. Sometimes as small as a ten pence piece, but sometimes in much larger patches. The hair is usually lost from the the head but can also occur on other parts of the body.
It develops when the immune system attacks the hair follicles, which results in hair loss. Alopecia Areata rarely results in total hair loss, known as Alopecia Universalis. However it can prevent hair growing back.
Sadly, for those suffering from this condition when hair does grow back it is possible that it will fall out again. The extent of hair loss and regrowth varies from person to person.
What can I do?
Whilst there is no cure for Alopecia Areata there are solutions to help you cope with the disease. These treatments can alleviate the symptoms even if they can’t cure the condition. A doctor can prescribe minoxidil to rub into your scalp to stimulate growth or they may prescribe steroid injections or creams.
Some people try vitamins and alternative therapies such as aromatherapy or acupuncture. Whilst their effectiveness isn’t proven, it is thought that acupuncture and aromatherapy may help relieve stress. Anxiety and stress can be an aggravating factor to AA.
Effectiveness varies and for some people their hair does grow back. Sadly for others there may be no improvement despite trying all treatments.
Alopecia Areata is emotionally challenging even if the hair loss only affects part of the scalp. People with the condition may feel isolated or become depressed. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, support groups may help you cope with the effects of the disease. You can get advice from www.alopecia.org.uk.
Talking to your doctor can help you explore what treatments might be suitable for you.
As well as talking to your doctor or dermatologist you can also speak to a hair loss expert. They can advise you on practical solutions to help you cope with hair loss. At Hair Solved we are combatting the effects of alopecia with our Enhancer System. Our hair enhancement system covers hair loss and is a beautiful, natural, non-invasive solution for this condition.
Read about Joanna, a client at Hair Solved London who suffered from Alopecia Areata for many years. Joanna has seen her life transformed by a beautiful and natural hair system.