Alopecia: Subheads Understanding Different Forms and Their Characteristics
Alopecia Areata: Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition characterized by the sudden onset of patchy hair loss. The body's immune system mistakenly attacks the hair follicles, leading to hair loss. Treatment options include corticosteroid injections, topical immunotherapy, or systemic medications to suppress immune activity.
Traction Alopecia: Traction alopecia occurs when repeated tension or pulling on the hair follicles leads to hair loss. Common causes include tight hairstyles, hair extensions, or habitual hair pulling. Prevention involves avoiding excessive traction and adopting gentle hair care practices.
Scarring Alopecia: Scarring alopecia refers to hair loss accompanied by irreversible scarring of the scalp. Causes include autoimmune diseases, infections, or inflammatory skin conditions. Treatment focuses on halting disease progression and managing symptoms to prevent further hair loss.
Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia: Frontal fibrosing alopecia is a subtype of scarring alopecia characterized by progressive hair loss along the frontal hairline. Its exact cause is unknown, but it is believed to involve autoimmune mechanisms. Treatment aims to halt disease progression and may include topical or systemic therapies to reduce inflammation.