Read on to learn the essential information you need to know about alopecia areata, including the symptoms, causes, treatment options, and more.
Medication Options
Corticosteroids Also known as simply “steroids,” medications such as prednisone may help reduce inflammation and your immune system’s attack on the hair follicles. These may be oral, topical, or injected, and the results may be gradual.Minoxidil (Rogaine) It’s typically sold over the counter for pattern baldness, but minoxidil may also help with hair regrowth in alopecia areata. It can take at least 12 weeks to see results, and it’s often combined with other therapies for the best results.JAK inhibitors These oral medications, prescribed for rheumatoid arthritis and a number of other conditions, are considered a breakthrough in alopecia areata treatment, and may be particularly helpful for people with severe hair loss who haven’t had success with other therapies.Olumiant (baricitinib) is the only JAK inhibitor approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of severe alopecia areata in adults. While considered safe and effective, Olumiant comes with a “boxed” warning about rare but potentially serious complications.
Alternative and Complementary Therapies
Eat a balanced diet.Avoid fad diets, or “yo-yo dieting,” which could lead to unrelated problems with hair loss.Take time each day to relax to help reduce overall stress.Experiment with different coverings, such as wigs, scarves, and hats to protect your head from the sun.If you wish, experiment with cosmetics to help camouflage the appearance of hair loss.
Since its founding in 1981, the NAAF has served those affected by alopecia areata as well as their families through a wealth of educational resources and advocacy opportunities. Additionally, the NAAF helps support research for potential new treatments. Learn more about the NAAF’s Treatment Development Program. American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD) As the largest dermatologic association in the United States, the AAD offers expert-written information about hair and skin diseases, including educational resources about alopecia. The AAD has also existed since 1938, and has since become a valuable membership resource for dermatologists across the country.
Favorite Alternative Medicine Resource
National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) If you’re interested in the latest science behind mind-body practices and herbal remedies related to your health, you can consider bookmarking the NCCIH’s website. There aren’t any known alternative therapies that will cure alopecia areata, but a healthy diet and lifestyle may help. For example, if your dermatologist recommends stress management, start at the NCCIH’s page on mind and body approaches to stress and anxiety.
Favorite Online Support Networks
NAAF Support Group Network The leading alopecia areata advocacy and education organization also offers worldwide support groups and networking opportunities. Here, you can find out how you can contact NAAF for their most recent list of support groups, as well as event opportunities to help stay connected. Children’s Alopecia Project (CAP) As a nonprofit organization dedicated to help children with alopecia and their families, CAP also offers several events where children can connect with their peers for support. Check out CAP’s latest offerings, including their summer camps.
Favorite Site for Alopecia Areata Products
NAAF’s Alopecia Areata Marketplace From headwear and hairpieces, to books and other educational tools, you can consider the NAAF’s marketplace as a one-stop shop for alopecia areata-related products. Here, the NAAF offers a list of approved vendors where you can also donate a portion of any costs directly back to NAAF.
Favorite Resource for Diet Advice
The Nutrition Source from Harvard School of Public Health Although there’s no alopecia areata diet per se, we know that eating a balanced diet full of anti-inflammatory foods can help you feel better. The Nutrition Source offers multiple pieces of advice that can help you get started, including information about macronutrients and healthy recipes. Consider checking out their review of anti-inflammatory diets as a starting point.
Favorite Resource for Becoming an Advocate
NAAF As the largest alopecia areata nonprofit, it’s no surprise that we consider the NAAF the best source for getting started with advocacy. The group makes the process less intimidating with a wealth of resources on how to contact legislators, schools, and the media. Sign up for its email list to access more information.
