Introduction
Alopecia Areata is a distressing condition that causes sudden, round patches of hair loss on the scalp and other areas of the body. At Urban Skin and Hair Clinic, Pune, we offer effective treatments to help you manage and treat Alopecia Areata, regrow lost hair, and restore your confidence. Our specialized therapies focus on stimulating hair regrowth and reducing the risk of recurrence.
Symptoms and Causes
Symptoms of Alopecia Areata
Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition that causes sudden and unpredictable hair loss. Common symptoms include:
Round or oval bald patches on the scalp, beard, or other body areas.
Sudden hair shedding in small clumps, often noticed while combing or washing.
Exposed smooth skin where hair has fallen out, without signs of scarring.
Tingling, itching, or mild discomfort in areas before hair loss occurs.
Changes in nails, such as pitting, ridges, or brittleness in some cases.
Causes of Alopecia Areata
Alopecia areata is primarily an autoimmune disorder, where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy hair follicles, leading to sudden hair loss. While the exact reason is not fully understood, several factors are linked to its development:
Genetics – A family history of autoimmune conditions increases risk.
Immune System Dysfunction – The body attacks its own follicles, halting hair growth.
Stress – Physical or emotional stress can trigger or worsen hair loss episodes.
Other Autoimmune Diseases – Conditions like thyroid disorders, vitiligo, or lupus may contribute.
Environmental Triggers – Infections or allergens might trigger an immune response.
Types of Alopecia Areata
Alopecia areata can affect people in different ways, depending on the extent and location of hair loss. The main types include:
Alopecia Areata (Patchy) – The most common form, where small, round or oval bald patches appear on the scalp or beard.
Alopecia Totalis – Complete loss of hair on the scalp.
Alopecia Universalis – Loss of all body hair, including eyebrows, eyelashes, and body hair.
Diffuse Alopecia Areata – Sudden thinning of hair across the scalp, resembling female or male pattern baldness.
Ophiasis Alopecia – Hair loss in a band-like pattern around the sides and lower back of the scalp.
Treatment Options
Treatment for alopecia areata focuses on slowing hair loss and stimulating regrowth, though results vary from person to person. Dermatologists often recommend corticosteroid creams, lotions, or injections to calm the immune system and help hair grow back in bald patches. In some cases, topical immunotherapy or minoxidil is used to encourage regrowth. For more severe conditions, doctors may prescribe oral medications such as JAK inhibitors or immunosuppressants. Along with medical treatment, lifestyle changes like stress management, a nutrient-rich diet, and gentle scalp care can support recovery. With consistent treatment, many people experience visible improvement over time.
Topical Corticosteroids
Corticosteroid Injections
Topical Immunotherapy
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FAQ's
Not always. In many cases, hair grows back within months, but some people may experience repeated cycles of hair loss and regrowth.
It is an autoimmune condition. Stress, genetics, and other autoimmune diseases like thyroid disorders can act as triggers.
There is no permanent cure, but treatments like corticosteroids, minoxidil, and immunotherapy can help control the condition and encourage regrowth.
No, it mainly affects hair and sometimes nails, but it does not impact general physical health.
If you notice sudden patchy hair loss, thinning, or nail changes, consult a dermatologist for early diagnosis and treatment.
What is Alopecia Areata?
Alopecia Areata is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system mistakenly attacks the hair follicles, leading to hair loss in small, round patches. The condition can affect any part of the body, but it’s most commonly seen on the scalp and face. The severity varies: some experience only a few patches of hair loss, while others may suffer from complete scalp hair loss (Alopecia Totalis) or even total body hair loss (Alopecia Universalis).
Causes of Alopecia Areata
The exact cause of Alopecia Areata is not fully understood, but several factors contribute to its development:
- Autoimmune Response: The immune system targets hair follicles as though they are foreign invaders, leading to hair loss.
- Genetics: A family history of autoimmune diseases or Alopecia Areata increases the risk.
- Stress: Emotional or physical stress is believed to trigger or worsen hair loss in some cases.
- Hormonal Imbalances: Conditions like thyroid disease can increase susceptibility to Alopecia Areata.
- Infections or Viral Illnesses: Certain viral infections have been linked to autoimmune responses that cause hair loss.
- Environmental Factors: Pollutants and toxins may trigger flare-ups in those genetically predisposed.
Treatment Benefits
- ✅ Stimulates Hair Regrowth: Aims to activate dormant follicles and regenerate hair growth
- ✅ Reduces Inflammation: Calms the immune response and prevents further damage to follicles
- ✅ Strengthens Hair and Roots: Promotes the growth of thicker, stronger hair strands
- ✅ Prevents Future Hair Loss: Helps stabilize hair regrowth and reduces the risk of recurrence
- ✅ Non-Surgical Options: Safe, non-invasive treatments with minimal downtime
- ✅ Suitable for All Ages and Severity Levels: From patchy hair loss to more extensive cases
- ✅ Improves Scalp Health: Enhances overall scalp nourishment for healthier hair
Before-After Results
Patients typically notice the regrowth of fine hair in the affected areas within 3–6 months of treatment. The density and thickness of the regrown hair improve with ongoing sessions, and many patients experience long-term hair restoration with proper care. Our dermatologists track progress through before-and-after photos to document hair restoration.
How to Prevent Alopecia Areata Recurrence
- Follow a personalized treatment plan prescribed by your dermatologist
- Manage stress through lifestyle changes like exercise, meditation, and relaxation techniques
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals essential for hair growth (biotin, iron, zinc)
- Regularly care for your scalp with gentle, non-irritating products
- Avoid harsh chemical treatments, heat styling, and tight hairstyles
- Follow-up treatments as recommended to maintain hair regrowth and prevent relapse
At Urban Skin and Hair Clinic, we offer a variety of treatments designed to manage and treat Alopecia Areata effectively:
- Steroid Injections: Administered directly into the affected areas to reduce inflammation and promote hair regrowth
- Topical Steroid Creams: Applied to patches of hair loss to encourage follicular activity
- PRP Therapy (Platelet-Rich Plasma): Stimulates hair follicles and promotes healing of the scalp
- Micro needling: Creates micro-injuries on the scalp to encourage hair regrowth by enhancing nutrient absorption
- Mesotherapy: Delivers essential nutrients directly into the scalp to strengthen hair follicles
- Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT): Stimulates hair follicles and improves blood circulation in the scalp
- Oral Medications: Prescription options for autoimmune response regulation, such as corticosteroids or immune system modulators
Each treatment is tailored to the patient’s needs, taking into account the severity of the condition and the patient’s health history.
Treatment Options at Urban Skin and Hair Clinic
Meet Our Expert Dermatologist
Dr. Kiran Chotaliya, M.D. Dermatology, is an expert in autoimmune hair loss treatments, including Alopecia Areata. With a compassionate approach and extensive clinical experience, Dr. Kiran will guide you through every step of the treatment process to ensure the best possible outcome.
Alopecia Areata Treatment FAQ
While there is no permanent cure, Alopecia Areata can be effectively managed, and hair regrowth is possible with the right treatments.
Hair regrowth typically begins in 3–6 months, with ongoing treatments recommended to ensure lasting results.
Yes, when administered by a qualified dermatologist, steroid injections are safe and effective for Alopecia Areata.
Yes, it can cause hair loss on the scalp, face (eyebrows, eyelashes), and even the body (Alopecia Universalis). Treatment will be adjusted based on the severity and area affected.
