Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disease that causes patchy hair loss on the scalp, beard, or eyebrows. It can affect people of all ages, genders, and ethnicities.
Cause: The exact cause is unknown, but it’s believed the immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles, interrupting the hair growth cycle. Stress, illness, or having a family history of alopecia areata can increase the risk.
Symptoms: Sudden appearance of smooth, round or oval patches of hair loss, typically on the scalp but can occur anywhere hair grows.
Treatment: There is no cure for alopecia areata, but treatments may help hair regrow faster. Options include:
* Corticosteroid injections: Reduce inflammation in the hair follicles.
* Topical medications like minoxidil: May stimulate hair growth.
* Immunotherapy medications: Modulate the immune system response.
Disclaimer: As with Androgenetic Alopecia, I am not a medical professional. This information is for general knowledge only. If you experience hair loss in patches, consult a dermatologist for diagnosis and discuss treatment options.