Natural Hair Loss Treatments

Alopecia Areata is a type of hair loss that affects both men and women. This disorder is comprised of four types of hair loss that relate to the whole body. The risks and treatment for this condition are discussed below.What is alopecia areata?The most common manifestation of this disorder results in a rapid amount of hair loss to the scalp, with the possibility of one side being more affected than the other.Unlike male pattern baldness, which is genetic in origin, alopecia areata is due to a malfunction of the immune system. The immune system wages war on body cells, specifically the hair follicles, which results in inhibition of hair growth.Different Types:There are different types of alopecia areata including:Diffuse Alopecia Areata – Evidenced by hairless spots on the scalpAlopecia Totalis – Marked by complete baldingAlopecia Universalis – Total loss of hair all over the bodyAlopecia Areata Barbe – Loss of facial hairWhat are the risks?Those primarily at risk for Alopecia areata are adolescents, teens, and young adults. It is most often confused with other hair loss conditions, such as hair shedding after pregnancy and after discontinuation of hormone replacement treatment, or HRT.The risk becomes greater in the presence of an autoimmune disorder.In almost 50% of diagnosed cases, new hair growth will occur within 12 months without treatment. Any hair loss lasting longer than this period will likely be permanent.How can it be treated?There are a range of treatment options available including:Injection of steroid drugs, corticosteroid shampoos, topical treatment applications, such as creams, oils, and drops.Medications for treatment of alopecia areata include:Cyclosporine, minoxidil and anthralin.It may be necessary to combine treatments to achieve the desired affect, depending on the extent of hair loss and length of time it has been progressing.It is possible that a main component of alopecia areata is emotional stress. Many people afflicted with this condition have reported stressful events in their lives that precluded the hair loss. Any subsequent situation that involved stress resulted in hair loss as well.The hair loss of alopecia areata can be rapid. The risk of complete baldness is increased with delay in treatment. If you are having symptoms of hair loss, consultation with your health care provider can reverse hair loss and restore growth.