Understanding Alopecia Areata

Alopecia areata, an autoimmune disease, is a condition affecting the hair follicles. It usually results in hair loss. In most cases, the hair falls out in small, round patches, although the disease can also result in total hair loss. While it is not known what causes alopecia areata, it is believed that genetics is a main contributor.

 

Treatment typically involves medications applied directly to the skin, oral medications, or photochemotherapy. However, it's important to understand that these drugs will not cure alopecia areata -- they just manage symptoms.