Is There a Cure for Alopecia Areata?

How Do Doctors Treat Alopecia Areata?

Upon diagnosing a person with this immune disorder, doctors may recommend one or more of the following treatments:

• Topical Drugs – A topical medication called minoxidil can re-grow hair in some people with alopecia areata. With this treatment, patients may see results within 12 weeks or so. 

• Corticosteroids – Corticosteroids are medications that reduce inflammation and have many applications within the category of autoimmune conditions. 

• Light Therapy – Phototherapy involves shining UV light onto the scalp and skin to encourage hair to grow. This treatment may also entail the use of a medication called psoralen, which is a light sensitive plant compound. 

• Plasma Injections – Injections of platelet-rich plasma (which consists of your own processed blood) can also help stimulate hair follicles.

Some patients may also be suited to immunotherapy, which involves applying allergens to the scalp and body to encourage the growth of hair.

What If These Treatments Fail to Work?

The effectiveness of alopecia areata treatments can depend on the severity of the condition. For instance, people with alopecia areata totalis (total loss of hair on the scalp) and alopecia areata universalis (total loss of hair on the scalp and body) have a lower chance of experiencing successful treatment.

In this case, individuals with this autoimmune disease are encouraged to reach out to others for help and support. Because alopecia areata can cause significant emotional effects, people with the condition are encouraged to seek counselling and therapy. Additionally, attending a support group with others can also help.