Alopecia is a partial or complete loss of hair caused by a disruption in the hair development cycle or damage to hair follicles.
What is it?
Hair thinning and alopecia can arise from a range of factors including genetics, hormonal imbalances, infections and the natural aging process. They may also be linked to conditions such as eating disorders, thyroid disorders and diabetes. Alopecia, specifically, is primarily an autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks the hair follicles. It often begins with a few small, circular bald patches on the scalp, and some individuals might experience itchiness during this phase. Complete hair loss typically occurs over a period of six months.
How is it treated?
Even though there is no definitive solution for alopecia, numerous innovative treatments for hair loss have been developed by dermatologists, enhancing the likelihood of hair regrowth even if previous methods were unsuccessful. Steroid injections and topical treatments have proven beneficial for certain patients. The latest prescription drugs, known as JAK inhibitors, aim at curbing the inflammation responsible for hair loss and have been successful for numerous patients. Our experienced team at Chapel Hill Dermatology is proficient in these advanced treatments. Make an appointment now to learn more about hair regrowth options from our skilled team in Chapel Hill, North Carolina.