Alopecia Areata

Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition that causes hair loss in localized patches or, in some cases, more extensive areas. In this type of hair loss, the immune system mistakenly attacks the hair follicles, leading to a disruption in hair growth. While it can affect people of all ages, it is most commonly seen in children and young adults. It typically appears on the scalp, but it can also affect the eyebrows, beard, and other areas of the body.

Is Alopecia Areata Reversible?

Yes, in many cases, hair can grow back with appropriate treatment. However, its course is unpredictable and can vary greatly from person to person.

Common Symptoms and How It’s Diagnosed

The most noticeable symptom is the sudden appearance of round or oval bald patches on the scalp. These patches are usually small at first, but in some cases, they may multiply—a pattern referred to as multifocal alopecia areata. In more advanced forms, hair loss can become more widespread:

Alopecia totalis: total loss of scalp hair
Alopecia universalis: total loss of body hair, including eyebrows and eyelashes

Medical Diagnosis

Diagnosis should always be made by a qualified specialist. During the consultation, the following tools are commonly used:

Pull test: a gentle tug on the hair to assess its strength and detect active shedding.
Digital trichoscopy: a high-resolution digital microscope that allows detailed observation of the scalp and hair follicles. This technique helps identify early signs of inflammation, track the progression, and tailor the treatment plan accordingly.
SALT score: used to accurately measure the extent of alopecia on the scalp.

Alopecia Areata Treatment Options

The evolution of alopecia areata varies: it may last only a few months or persist for several years. Although there is currently no definitive cure, there are effective treatment options that can slow down hair loss and promote regrowth.

In a dermatology consultation, several approaches can be considered:

Topical treatments: applied directly to the affected areas to help reduce inflammation and rebalance immune activity in the scalp.
Local injections: target specific bald patches using anti-inflammatory agents to halt progression.
Systemic therapies: considered for more extensive cases, these treatments aim to regulate the immune system. They must always be prescribed and monitored by a specialist.
Advanced oral therapies: these new options have significantly improved outcomes in persistent cases lasting more than six months and are often considered as first-line treatments in such scenarios.

Aesthetic Solutions and Complementary Options

For cases of eyebrow loss, eyebrow microblading offers a non-invasive method to restore natural appearance. It is suitable for partial or recurrent loss and does not interfere with medical treatments aimed at stimulating regrowth. In cases of complete eyebrow loss, it may be considered as a long-term solution.

Those experiencing total hair loss who seek immediate aesthetic improvement may consider fixed hair prostheses. These are non-surgical hair systems that offer a natural, safe, and visually seamless alternative.