Understand Your Options and Symptoms
Alopecia is a common condition that causes hair loss. Thankfully, there are many treatments for alopecia available. In this article, we talk about ten different options and common signs of alopecia to watch for.
Treatment Options for Alopecia
1. Litfulo
Litfulo (Ritlecitinib) is a newer treatment option for those with alopecia. It is used to help reduce inflammation and stimulate hair growth. Doctors might suggest Litfulo if other treatments have not worked well. Many people are excited about this option because early results show promise.
2. Minoxidil
Minoxidil (Rogaine) is a popular treatment that is available over the counter. You can use it as a liquid or foam that you put directly on your scalp. Minoxidil works by increasing blood flow to hair follicles and can help slow down hair loss and sometimes even regrow hair.
3. Finasteride
Finasteride (Propecia) is a pill that is taken by mouth. It works by lowering the level of the hormone DHT (dihydrotestosterone) that is linked to hair loss in many people. This treatment is mainly used in men, as it can cause side effects in women or lead to birth defects if a pregnant woman takes it.
4. Corticosteroids
Corticosteroids are medicines that help slow down the immune system. They can be given as injections directly into the bald patches of your scalp, as pills or as creams. Corticosteroids can help reduce the inflammation that leads to hair loss, and they might help new hair grow.
5. Phototherapy
Phototherapy involves using strong light sources to treat alopecia. This type of treatment is especially used when the hair loss is caused by an autoimmune reaction. The light helps calm the skin and can encourage hair to start growing again. Often, phototherapy is repeated over several weeks or months to achieve the best results.
6. Platelet-Rich Plasma
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatment is made from your own blood. Your blood is drawn in a lab and the most important parts that help heal wounds are concentrated. The PRP is then injected into your scalp. This method may boost the growth of hair by improving blood flow and the health of the hair follicles. Many people find this treatment promising.
7. Topical Immunotherapy
Topical immunotherapy uses chemicals that cause a mild allergic reaction when applied to the scalp. This reaction can sometimes help trigger hair growth. The chemical is applied to the affected areas and then carefully managed by a doctor. This treatment is usually for people with patchy hair loss who have not had success with other treatments.
8. JAK Inhibitor
JAK inhibitors are a newer class of medication that are taken by mouth or injected. They block certain signals in the body that lead to inflammation and hair loss. Some early research shows that JAK inhibitors can help people with severe forms of alopecia. Because they are still being studied, doctors are cautious in how they are used and these treatments are often reserved for those with more resistant cases of hair loss.
9. Anthralin
Anthralin is a cream provided by a doctor that is applied to the scalp. It works by modifying the immune reactions that cause hair loss. Anthralin is usually used for a period of time and then cleaned off.
10. Laser Therapy
Laser therapy uses low-level light energy to improve hair growth. It is thought that the light helps improve blood circulation in the scalp and makes hair follicles more active. Laser devices are available for use in clinics and some are even made for home use. It is important to use devices that have been approved by health experts, as a proper dose of light is necessary to treat the condition effectively.
Common Symptoms of Alopecia
If you are concerned about alopecia, keep an eye out for the following signs.
- Patchy hair loss. Small, round areas on your scalp where hair is missing.
- Nail pitting. Small dents or pits in your nails.
- Itchiness. Your scalp may feel itchy even if there is no other skin condition.
- Skin color change. Sometimes the skin in bald spots can become lighter or darker.
- Follicular ostia. These are the small holes or openings in your scalp.
- Cadaver hairs. These hairs look like they are broken off near the scalp.
- Exclamation point hairs. Hairs that are narrower at the bottom and broader at the top, hinting at active hair loss.
- White hairs. A change in hair color can sometimes be seen with some forms of alopecia.
With the many available options, there is hope for managing alopecia and improving your wellbeing. It is important to work with your doctor to decide which treatments for alopecia are best for you and to discuss any possible side effects.