What is Alopecia?

03rd September 2024

While it's a term often associated with hair loss, Alopecia encompasses a range of conditions, each with unique causes, symptoms, and treatments. Whether you're experiencing hair thinning, bald patches, or more extensive hair loss, understanding Alopecia is the first step towards effective treatment and management.

Types of Alopecia

Alopecia is an umbrella term that includes various forms of hair loss, each with distinct characteristics. The most common types include:

1. Alopecia Areata

Alopecia Areata is an autoimmune condition where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles, leading to patchy hair loss. The hair loss usually occurs in small, round patches on the scalp, but it can also affect other areas of the body, such as the eyebrows, eyelashes, and beard. In some cases, Alopecia Areata can progress to:

• Alopecia Totalis: Total loss of hair on the scalp.
• Alopecia Universalis: Complete loss of hair on the scalp and body.

2. Androgenetic Alopecia

Androgenetic Alopecia, also known as male or female pattern baldness, is the most common form of hair loss, affecting both men and women. It is a hereditary condition influenced by hormones, particularly dihydrotestosterone (DHT). In men, it typically results in a receding hairline and thinning at the crown, while women may experience diffuse thinning across the scalp without a receding hairline.

3. Telogen Effluvium

Telogen Effluvium occurs when a significant number of hair follicles enter the resting (telogen) phase of the hair growth cycle simultaneously, leading to increased shedding. This type of hair loss is often triggered by factors such as stress, illness, surgery, or hormonal changes (e.g., postpartum hair loss).

4. Traction Alopecia

Traction Alopecia is caused by prolonged tension or pulling on the hair, often due to tight hairstyles such as braids, ponytails, or extensions. Over time, the constant stress on the hair follicles can lead to permanent hair loss if not addressed early.

5. Cicatricial (Scarring) Alopecia

Cicatricial Alopecia is a group of rare disorders that destroy hair follicles and replace them with scar tissue, resulting in permanent hair loss. The condition can occur in various patterns and may be associated with inflammation, itching, and pain.

Symptoms of Alopecia

The symptoms of Alopecia vary depending on the type and severity of the condition. Common signs to watch for include:

• Patchy Hair Loss: Small, round bald patches on the scalp or other areas of the body.
• Gradual Thinning: Noticeable thinning of hair on the scalp, often along the hairline or crown.
• Widespread Shedding: Increased hair loss during brushing or washing, often seen in Telogen Effluvium.
• Redness or Scaling: In cases of Cicatricial Alopecia, the scalp may appear red, inflamed, or scaly.
• Itching or Burning:  Some forms of Alopecia, particularly those with scarring, can cause discomfort or a burning sensation on the scalp.

What can I do about my Alopecia?

While there is currently no cure for Alopecia, various treatments and management strategies can help slow hair loss, stimulate hair regrowth, and improve the appearance of thinning areas. Treatment options vary depending on the type and severity of the condition:

1. Visit HairInXs

At Hair InXs, we offer a solution to Alopecia sufferers who wish to cover their hair. With treatments that will resolve any issue with thinning hair, our specialists have unbeatable expertise when it comes to offering Alopecia hair loss solutions. Our team can talk to you about your hair and what you would like to get out of our services, before offering a high quality answer to your hair loss. 

2. Medications

There are now a number of over-the-counter topical solutions which can help promote regrowth of hair how it is always best to consult a pharmacist and ask them for their medical advise. In addition to this, you can also visit your doctor for prescribed medications which can help with hair regrowth and to reduce inflammation in harsher cases.

3. Light Therapy

Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) is a non-invasive treatment that uses red light to stimulate hair follicles and promote hair growth. It is often used in conjunction with other treatments for better results.

Alopecia Treatment in Berkshire and Worthing

Alopecia is a complex condition with various types and symptoms, but understanding the underlying causes and available treatment options can make a significant difference in managing hair loss. If you are suffering from hair loss or thinning hair and may be concerned about it being Alopecia, our friendly specialists can assist with a solution tailored to you. Contact us today on 01628 660527.