Hair & Scalp
Alopecia Areata
WHAT IS IT
Patchy hair loss from an immune reaction
HOW COMMON
Common; affects all ages
CONTAGIOUS?
No — you cannot catch it or spread it
CURABLE?
Not curable, but hair often regrows
What Is It?
Alopecia areata causes hair to fall out in smooth, round patches, usually on the scalp but sometimes the beard, eyebrows, or elsewhere. It happens when the immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles. Hair often regrows on its own, but the course is unpredictable and hair can come and go over time.
Signs & Symptoms
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Smooth, round patches of hair loss
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Skin in the patch looks normal (no scarring)
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Possible "exclamation-mark" short hairs at the edges
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Can affect scalp, beard, eyebrows, or lashes
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Nail pitting or ridging in some people
Why Does It Happen?
It's an autoimmune condition: the immune system targets the hair follicles, causing hair to fall out while leaving the follicles alive (so regrowth is possible). Genetics and stress can play a role, and it's sometimes linked with thyroid disease and other autoimmune conditions. It is NOT contagious and NOT caused by poor hair care.
Treatment Options
Treatment aims to calm the immune attack and encourage regrowth. Many patches regrow on their own; more extensive cases have newer targeted options.
STEROID INJECTIONS
Injected into patches — a common first step for limited disease.
TOPICAL TREATMENTS
Steroid or minoxidil applied to patches to support regrowth.
JAK INHIBITORS
Newer pills for extensive or severe alopecia areata.
SUPPORT & CAMOUFLAGE
Wigs, cosmetics, and support resources while hair regrows.
Tips for Managing It at Home
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Be gentle with hair; harsh styling won't cause or cure it
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Ask about thyroid and related checks if suggested
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Protect bare scalp patches from sunburn
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Seek support — the emotional impact is real and common
When to Call Your Provider
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Rapid or widespread hair loss
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Loss of eyebrows, lashes, or beard hair
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Emotional distress from the hair loss
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Interest in newer treatment options
Sources & further reading
The information in this handout is based on general dermatology guidance from the reputable organizations below. These links are provided for patients who wish to read more from trusted sources.
American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). Alopecia Areata: Overview. https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/hair-loss/types/alopecia
Canadian Dermatology Association (CDA). Alopecia. https://dermatology.ca/public-patients/diseases-conditions/hair-conditions/alopecia/
DermNet. Alopecia Areata. https://dermnetnz.org/topics/alopecia-areata
National Alopecia Areata Foundation. What is Alopecia Areata?. https://www.naaf.org/alopecia-areata/
This handout is for general education and does not replace advice from your own provider. Always follow your provider’s specific instructions.
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