What Causes Alopecia Areata: Navigating This Hair Loss Condition

Alopecia areata is a relatively common condition which causes hair loss, which is estimated to affect up to 2% of the global population.

But what causes alopecia areata? What signs should you look out for? And why does it happen to some people? Let’s look at why alopecia areata may occur, and possible treatments which may help.

What is Alopecia Areata and what causes it?

There are several different types of alopecia that a doctor could diagnose you with, like alopecia areata, alopecia totalis, or alopecia universalis, depending on the extent of the loss. The way each form of the condition presents itself is different, but they are related by causing unexpected hair loss. Alopecia areata is perhaps the most common form of alopecia, after androgenetic alopecia (male pattern baldness).

While male pattern hair loss is a hereditary condition that occurs in the vast majority of men who experience hair loss, alopecia areata works differently.

Alopecia areata is thought to be an autoimmune condition that causes patchy hair loss on your head, believed to be caused by the immune system mistakenly attacking the hair follicles. Whilst male pattern baldness usually follows a specific pattern of loss with gradual thinning and recession in the temple and crown areas, alopecia areata can occur much faster and look quite different, with small, round patches of hair loss.

The exact cause isn’t entirely understood yet but the chances of experiencing it can increase significantly if you suffer from a thyroid problem, diabetes, lupus, or another autoimmune condition such as rheumatoid arthritis. Your body is tricked into thinking it needs to defend itself against an infection or external threat to your hair follicles (when it is actually because of the autoimmune response you’re suffering from) and does so by shedding your hair.

Genetics contribute to a percentage of alopecia cases globally, as does the environment you find yourself in and lifestyle choices. Cancer and the subsequent treatment can cause people to suffer from a different type of alopecia. Interestingly, but maybe unsurprisingly given that your scalp is a sensitive skin area, types of dermatitis are linked to an increased likelihood of alopecia too.

Treatment Options for Alopecia Areata

The treatment route that is necessary for you depends on the underlying condition of your alopecia, so it is best to consult with a doctor for personalised treatment recommendations. One possible treatment is 5% Minoxidil Spray, which a study demonstrated was effective in 81% of men suffering with extensive hair loss due to alopecia areata. Professionals stress the importance of early intervention, to help prevent the hair loss from worsening, as treatments become less effective the more extensive the hair loss. Healthcare professionals may recommend alternative treatment options such as topical steroids or laser therapy. If you believe you may be suffering with this condition, seek advice from your GP.

All of our blog articles are reviewed for medical accuracy by our Medical Director before publication.

Posted in: All, Hair, Hair loss