Alopecia simply stated is hair loss.
It is estimated that alopecia effects tens of millions of American men, women and children across all ages, socioeconomic statuses, racial and ethnic backgrounds. Actual figures may be much higher because many have not been diagnosed by a medical professional.
Alopecia can affect anyone at any time. Different for every individual, the onset may occur in childhood or adulthood with hair loss being cyclical, temporary or permanent. Hair loss can happen suddenly or gradually over a period of time. It can be scarring or non-scarring and may include partial or total loss of hair on the head, face and/or body.
The cause can be the result of aging, genetics, hair pulling disorder, hormones, immune system dysfunction, illness, life stressors, nutrition, medication or hair care practices.
The majority of those with hair loss are basically healthy and regardless of the reason or forms of alopecia, hair is lost in varying degrees on the scalp, face and/or body resulting in patterned or complete baldness. There are individuals in which hair loss is temporary and will correct itself with or without any medical intervention, others will experience cycles of loss and regrowth throughout their lives and there are those whose hair loss is permanent.
The only FDA approved drugs for hair loss are Litfulo (Ritlecitinib) recently approved in 2023 for severe Alopecia Areata in those 12 years and older, Rogaine (Monixidil) and Propecia (Finasteride) which are typically used to treat Androgenetic Alopecia and require long-term usage to maintain results. Depending on the type and stage of alopecia a hair transplant may be a viable remedy.
While some treatments such as steroids in the form of creams, gels, injections or pills and antibiotics have regrown or slowed down hair loss for some, the results have not been consistently successful. As of yet there is no cure for many types of alopecia.
