Alopecia Areata: Causes and Treatment of Patchy Hair Loss
Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition that causes smooth, round bald patches. Hair often regrows, and a dermatologist can offer treatments to speed it up.
Condition guide
Alopecia areata
Also known as Patchy hair loss, Spot baldness, Bald patch, Beard alopecia.
In short
Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition in which the immune system attacks hair follicles and causes round, smooth patches of hair loss on the scalp, beard or eyebrows. The follicles are not destroyed, so hair often grows back, sometimes on its own. It is not contagious and is not caused by poor hair care, and a dermatologist can suggest treatment depending on how much hair is affected.
Typical signs
- One or more round or oval smooth bald patches
- Patches in the beard, eyebrows or eyelashes
- Short broken hairs at the edge of a patch
- Small pits or ridges on the nails in some people
When to see a dermatologist
- You notice a new bald patch, so the diagnosis can be confirmed
- Patches are growing or new ones keep appearing
- You are losing eyebrows or eyelashes
- A child has patchy hair loss
Signs vary from person to person and several skin conditions look alike. Only an examination can confirm a diagnosis.
Read the guides
Full, referenced articles on alopecia areata written for Indian skin, with answers to common questions.
Worried about alopecia areata?
Book an online consultation with Dr. Maria Ansari for an assessment and a written care plan made for you.
This page is a short summary for general education and does not replace a consultation with a qualified dermatologist. Do not start, stop or change any medicine based on this page. Read the full medical disclaimer.