Alopecia

Name: Alopecia
SKU: 664
Price: 29.00 GBP
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From £29.00

Alopecia Causes and Treatment: Alopecia areata is a condition where the immune system attacks its own hair follicles, which causes hair loss usually to the scalp and face. The hair follicles are present in the skin. It can affect people of any age and typically manifests as circular bald patches on the scalp or other parts of the body. In some cases, it can progress to total hair loss on the scalp (alopecia totalis) or complete loss of body hair (alopecia universalis).

If unsure of diagnosis, please speak to our clinicians who can provide potent topical corticosteroid treatment, if there is no evidence of hair regrowth. Please provide pictures of non-intimate areas if you choose the telephone consultation; pictures are not required for video consultation.

£29.00

Causes of Alopecia Areata

While the exact cause of alopecia areata is not fully understood, researchers believe that it is likely due to a combination of genetic, environmental, and immunological factors. Some potential causes and contributing factors include:

Genetics: There is evidence to suggest that genetics play a role in the development of alopecia areata. Individuals with a family history of autoimmune diseases or alopecia areata are at a higher risk of developing the condition themselves.

Autoimmune Factors: The immune system normally protects the body from harmful substances such as bacteria and viruses. However, in autoimmune diseases like alopecia areata, the immune system mistakenly identifies healthy tissues, such as hair follicles, as foreign invaders and attacks them.

Environmental Triggers: Certain environmental factors may trigger or exacerbate alopecia areata in susceptible individuals. These triggers can include stress, trauma, hormonal changes, infections, and exposure to certain chemicals or allergens.

Other Autoimmune Diseases: Individuals with other autoimmune diseases, such as thyroid disorders, rheumatoid arthritis, or vitiligo, may have an increased risk of developing alopecia areata.

Psychological Factors: While not a direct cause, psychological stress and emotional trauma may exacerbate alopecia areata or trigger flare-ups in some individuals.

Treatment

Treatment for alopecia areata aims to promote hair regrowth, manage symptoms, and prevent further hair loss. The effectiveness of treatment options can vary from person to person, and some individuals may experience spontaneous hair regrowth without intervention. Here are some common treatment options for alopecia areata:

Corticosteroids: Corticosteroids can help suppress the immune system’s attack on hair follicles. They may be administered in various forms, including topical creams, ointments, or solutions for mild cases, or through injections directly into the affected areas for more severe cases.

Topical Immunotherapy: This treatment involves applying chemicals such as diphencyprone (DPCP) or squaric acid dibutyl ester (SADBE) to the scalp to induce an allergic reaction. This reaction alters the immune response in the affected area and may stimulate hair regrowth.

Minoxidil (Rogaine): Minoxidil is a topical medication that is available over-the-counter and is used to promote hair growth in people with certain types of hair loss, including alopecia areata. It is applied directly to the scalp and may help stimulate hair follicles to produce hair.

Phototherapy: Phototherapy involves exposing the affected skin to ultraviolet light. This treatment may help modulate the immune response in the skin and promote hair regrowth.

Hair Transplantation: In cases where alopecia areata has caused significant hair loss and other treatments have been ineffective, hair transplantation may be an option. This surgical procedure involves transplanting hair follicles from areas of the scalp with healthy hair growth to bald or thinning areas.

It’s essential for individuals with alopecia areata to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate treatment plan based on the severity of their condition, medical history, and individual preferences.

Alopecia

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Causes of Alopecia Areata

While the exact cause of alopecia areata is not fully understood, researchers believe that it is likely due to a combination of genetic, environmental, and immunological factors. Some potential causes and contributing factors include:

Treatment