Before
AfterAlopecia Areata6 months treatment
Leah's Alopecia Areata Recovery
Significant regrowth from severe patchy hair loss through personalised trichology treatment.
Learn how we helped →Alopecia Areata Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments
Struggling with sudden hair loss? Learn what causes Alopecia Areata, how to spot the symptoms early, and explore proven treatments that help clients regain confidence.
Alopecia Areata is an extremely common condition and will affect 1% to 2% of the population at some point in their lives. Most sufferers are children and young adults (below 40 years old), though it can affect people of all ages. The exact cause of Alopecia Areata is still unknown, although current theories include a form of auto-immune disease, stress or a genetic basis.
What Happens with Alopecia Areata?
Alopecia Areata is an autoimmune condition that causes sudden, patchy hair loss, often beginning on the scalp. The condition often begins with small, smooth bald patches that may gradually widen over time. It can also affect the nails, causing them to appear pitted, ridged, or brittle.
Alopecia Areata occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles, interrupting hair growth. Most people experience only a few bald spots, but in more severe cases, the hair loss may be more extensive and affect other parts of the body.
Although not physically painful, Alopecia Areata can be distressing and emotionally challenging, but it's important to know that recovery is possible.
Alopecia Areata Recovery Stories
BeforeAfter
Before
AfterAlopecia Areata8 months treatment
Giovanni's Alopecia Areata Recovery
Full regrowth achieved at age 70 — proof that treatment works at any age.
Learn how we helped →
Before
AfterAlopecia Areata12 months treatment
Rachel's Alopecia Areata Recovery
Serious alopecia areata across the scalp reversed with expert diagnosis and targeted treatment.
Learn how we helped →
Before
AfterAlopecia Areata5 months treatment
Alice's Alopecia Areata Recovery
Multiple bald patches treated successfully — Alice now maintains healthy, full hair.
Learn how we helped →What Are the Symptoms of Alopecia Areata?
Alopecia Areata typically starts with one or more small, round patches of sudden hair loss, most often on the scalp or beard area.
Early Signs
- Sudden appearance of round bald patches
- Scalp, beard, and eyebrows are the most commonly affected areas
- Nail changes like pitting or ridging
Progression (for some people)
- Bald patches may widen or multiply over time
- Rarely, eyebrows and eyelashes may also fall out
- In some cases, it may lead to Alopecia Totalis (complete scalp hair loss) or Alopecia Universalis (total body hair loss)
What's Happening in the Body
- Believed to be an autoimmune disorder where the body attacks its own hair follicles
- T cells cluster around follicles, leading to hair loss
- Hair follicles are not permanently destroyed — regrowth is often possible
Other Key Facts
- Affects men, women, and children — often begins in childhood
- Not contagious and does not cause physical pain
- Can affect any hair-bearing area of the body
- Can affect anyone, but tends to be more common in those with a family history of autoimmune diseases
- Hereditary links have been found, including genes on chromosome 8p21–22
What Triggers Alopecia Areata?
The exact cause of Alopecia Areata isn't fully understood, but several potential triggers are believed to play a role.
Commonly Reported Triggers
- Sudden or prolonged emotional stress
- Physical trauma or injury
- Surgery or serious illness
- Bereavement or major life changes
- Family history of alopecia or autoimmune conditions
What's Happening in the Body
Alopecia Areata is widely considered an autoimmune condition. For reasons not yet fully clear, the body begins attacking its own hair follicles. This immune response may be influenced by:
- Hormonal imbalance
- Genetic predisposition
- Psychosomatic factors — emotional stress affecting the body
The Hair Loss Centre's trichologically formulated treatments and lotions reduce the immune response. It is best to treat the condition as soon as it is diagnosed. Let us help you.
“Triggers are often outside of your control. The important thing to know is that you didn't cause this, and effective treatments are available. With the right support, many people with Alopecia Areata see significant regrowth.”
Alopecia Areata FAQ
Is Alopecia Areata permanent?
Not always. In many cases, hair can regrow — especially with early treatment. However, the condition can be unpredictable, and some people experience repeated flare-ups.
What triggers Alopecia Areata?
It can be triggered by stress, illness, genetics, or immune system responses. The exact cause varies by person and is not always identifiable.
Is it contagious?
No. Alopecia Areata is not contagious and cannot be passed from one person to another.
Can it affect areas beyond the scalp?
Yes. While the scalp is most commonly affected, hair loss can also occur on the eyebrows, eyelashes, and other parts of the body.
What treatments are available?
There are several treatment options including topical therapies, steroid injections, immunotherapy, and natural approaches. The best course depends on your individual case.
When should I see a specialist?
As soon as you notice patchy hair loss or changes in hair texture. Early intervention can make a significant difference in treatment outcomes.
Chief Trichologist
Gary Heron
With over 40 years' experience diagnosing and treating hair loss conditions, Gary has helped thousands of clients understand their condition and find the right treatment path.
- 40+ specialist experience in trichology
- Diagnosis-first approach to treatment planning
- Personalised treatment plans for all hair loss types
- Proven track record with thousands of clients
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1
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2
Personalised Treatment
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3
Ongoing Support
Regular monitoring and adjustments to ensure the best possible outcomes for your hair health.
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