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Alopecia, better known as “baldness” to laypersons, is a condition that will affect the vast majority of men-to varying degrees-by the time they reach their 60s and affect millions of women around the world. Here, we will take a look at the different types of baldness, as well as known causes, and recommended treatments.
For instance, alopecia areata is an autoimmune disease whereby the body actually attacks itself. In the case of alopecia areata, the body attacks its own hair follicles, leading to hair loss. The amount of hair lost will vary from person to person, with some losing small clumps the shape and size of a standard quarter, while others will lose significantly more.
A more extreme form of alopecia areata is known as alopecia areata universalis, whereby the person loses every single hair on their entire body. Another form is known as alopecia areata totalis, which causes a person to lose all of the hair on their heads.
Unfortunately, scientists are still not entirely sure what triggers alopecia areata. Some experts claim it is linked to a person’s genetic makeup, while others believe the condition is caused by environmental stressors that have not yet been identified. In fact, some people who suffer from alopecia areata will lose their hair and then permanently grow back their hair without external aid.
Others may go through a continual cycle of hair loss and gain throughout their lives. Regardless of the causes, most connoisseurs recommend that you speak to a health care professional if you have a family history of other autoimmune disorders, such as thyroid disease, lupus, or diabetes.
In terms of treatments it must first be stressed that there is no known cure for alopecia areata. However, it can be treated with various drugs such as Rogaine. Rogaine is available over-the-counter and contains minoxidil. It is recommended for people who suffer from pattern baldness and is usually applied topically in a liquid or foam form. It must also be noted that there is no guarantee that Rogaine will work for you, and in cases where the product does work, it generally takes 12 weeks for noticeable hair growth to develop. Alternative to Rogaine is equally potent and much efficient, easy to use minoxidil precision spray by Regenepure. It also contains 5% minoxidil.
You can also try an anti-inflammatory drug such as a corticosteroid to treat alopecia areata. It is generally injected into the scalp, albeit it can also be applied topically as a cream, ointment, or foam. Corticosteroids can also be ingested orally as a pill. The effectiveness of corticosteroids varies from person to person, and results tend to be gradual in most cases.
For widespread hair loss and/or hair loss that reoccurs, sensitizers or topical contact allergens may be prescribed by your doctor. These treatments actually cause inflammation that may trigger newfound hair growth. Also known as topical immunotherapy, results are yet not conclusive.
If you do not wish to take drugs, then you can try reducing stress to help boost your immune system. In fact studies have shown that people who develop new-onset alopecia areata tend to have newfound familial or economic problems that cause anxiety and/or depression. You can also try wearing scarves, hats, or wigs to protect your head from the elements, or use makeup to conceal or minimize hair loss.
While alopecia areata is not dangerous, it can have a severe impact on a person’s psyche. Support groups are available and you can learn more by visiting the website of the National Alopecia Areata Foundation
