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Only condition images were generated using AI for illustrative purposes. They do not represent real clients.
Alopecia Areata
Alopecia areata is an autoimmune form of hair loss that usually appears as smooth, round, well-defined patches on an otherwise normal scalp. It can affect the scalp, beard, brows and lashes. Its course is unpredictable: patches can regrow on their own and new ones can appear. It is a medical condition, diagnosed and managed by a physician.
The immune system mistakes a target
Normally the hair follicle enjoys a kind of immune privilege, left alone by the immune system. In alopecia areata that protection breaks down, and immune cells attack the growing follicle by mistake. The follicle abruptly stops and sheds its hair, leaving a smooth patch. Crucially, it is paused, not destroyed, which is why regrowth remains possible.
What is alopecia areata?
Alopecia areata reflects an autoimmune process on a genetic, often autoimmune-linked terrain, not a problem of hygiene or hair care. Triggers may set off a flare, but they are not the cause. Understanding the mechanism matters, because it explains both why regrowth is possible and why the condition is unpredictable and managed medically.
An autoimmune attack
The core of alopecia areata is the immune system attacking the follicle it should leave alone. Immune cells target the growing bulb, the follicle halts, and the hair falls, leaving a smooth patch. Because the follicle is paused rather than destroyed, the hair can return, sometimes white at first, as pigment takes longer to come back.
A genetic, autoimmune terrain
The predisposition is largely genetic and often linked to a broader autoimmune background, such as thyroid conditions. This terrain is why alopecia areata can run in families and coincide with other autoimmune issues. It also underlines that the condition is a medical one, not something caused by lifestyle or grooming.
Stress as a trigger, not a cause
Stress is often cited as setting off a flare, but it does not cause the condition. The autoimmune predisposition is the underlying driver, and stress may tip an existing tendency into an episode. Making this distinction matters, because it removes the misplaced blame and self-blame often attached to the condition.
Patterns and extent vary
Alopecia areata ranges from one or a few patches to a band along the hairline, or more extensive loss of all scalp or even body hair. The extent and course differ from person to person and cannot be predicted, which is exactly why diagnosis and follow-up belong with a physician.
How to Prevent
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Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)
Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF)
