Alopecia Areata Awareness Month is annually every September. This month is dedicated to educating the public about alopecia areata, a medical condition affecting millions worldwide. Alopecia is often misunderstood as simply hair loss. However, it encompasses various forms and has multiple causes and treatments. This blog post will discuss the different types of alopecia and the prevalence of the condition in the United States. We will also talk about potential causes and available treatments. Plus, how hairstylists can play a pivotal role in identifying the early signs of alopecia and helping clients seek proper treatment.

What is Alopecia

Alopecia is the medical term for hair loss affecting the scalp or other body parts. It can occur in individuals of any age, gender, or ethnicity. Depending on the underlying cause, this hair loss can be temporary or permanent. While some forms of alopecia result in isolated bald spots, others can lead to complete hair loss on the scalp or entire body.

The psychological impact of alopecia should not be underestimated. Hair is closely tied to an individual’s identity and self-esteem. Losing hair can lead to emotional distress, anxiety, and social withdrawal. This makes early recognition and treatment essential, not just for managing the condition. But also to support the emotional well-being of those affected.

The Three Types of Alopecia

There are three primary types of alopecia. Each has unique causes, symptoms, and treatments. Understanding these distinctions is essential for anyone seeking to support individuals affected by the condition.

1. Alopecia Areata

Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles, resulting in hair loss. The condition often manifests as small, round patches of hair loss on the scalp. However, it can also affect other body parts, such as the beard, eyebrows, and eyelashes.

The hair follicles are not destroyed in alopecia areata, so hair regrowth is possible. The cycle of hair loss and regrowth is now unpredictable, though. In some cases, the condition can evolve into:

• Alopecia totalis: Complete loss of all scalp hair.
• Alopecia universalis: Complete loss of hair on the scalp and body.

Alopecia areata affects about 6.8 million people in the United States and is relatively common among both children and adults.

2. Androgenetic Alopecia (Male and Female Pattern Baldness)

Androgenetic alopecia, commonly known as male or female pattern baldness, is the most common form of hair loss. It affects an estimated 50 million men and 30 million women in the United States. This condition is typically hereditary and associated with a genetic predisposition to hair follicle sensitivity to androgens, which are male hormones.

• Male pattern baldness: This hair loss usually follows a predictable pattern, starting with a receding hairline and thinning at the crown.
• Female pattern baldness: Women typically experience diffuse thinning over the top of the scalp rather than a receding hairline.

While male-pattern baldness is more visible, female-pattern baldness can be just as distressing for those affected. Unlike alopecia areata, androgenetic alopecia is usually permanent if not treated. This hair loss can often be slowed or managed with proper interventions.

3. Traction Alopecia

Traction alopecia is hair loss caused by prolonged tension or pulling on the hair. It is commonly seen in individuals who wear tight hairstyles, such as braids, ponytails, buns, or extensions. Over time, this constant strain weakens hair follicles, leading to hair loss, particularly along the hairline.

Traction alopecia is preventable and reversible if caught early. However, prolonged tension can permanently damage hair follicles, resulting in irreversible hair loss. This form of alopecia disproportionately affects women of color due to cultural grooming practices and the widespread use of tight hairstyles.

How Many People in the United States Have Alopecia?

Alopecia affects millions of people in the United States across various forms. According to the National Alopecia Areata Foundation, approximately 6.8 million people in the U.S. have alopecia areata. Androgenetic alopecia affects 50 million men and 30 million women. Traction alopecia does not have a specific prevalence rate, but it is widespread among women who frequently wear tight hairstyles, particularly African American women.

The overall prevalence of alopecia highlights the importance of raising awareness about the condition. Raising awareness promotes early detection and improves access to treatment options.

Why Certain People Have Alopecia: Causes and Risk Factors

Understanding the causes of alopecia is critical for providing effective treatment and support. While each type of alopecia has its specific triggers, the condition often stems from a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors.

Autoimmune Disorders

Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disorder. This means that the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy hair follicles. The exact cause of this immune response is unknown, but it is believed to be influenced by genetic and environmental factors. Individuals with a family history of autoimmune diseases, such as thyroid disease, rheumatoid arthritis, or lupus, are at a higher risk of developing alopecia areata.

Hormonal Imbalances

Androgenetic alopecia is primarily driven by hormonal factors, particularly the hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT). In men, DHT shortens the hair growth cycle and shrinks hair follicles, which leads to hair thinning and eventual hair loss. Women can also experience androgenetic alopecia due to hormonal changes, particularly during menopause. During menopause, estrogen levels decline, and the relative level of androgens increases.

Environmental and Lifestyle Factors

External factors, such as repeated tension on the hair from tight hairstyles, primarily cause traction alopecia. Other contributing factors can include excessive heat styling, chemical treatments, and the use of hair extensions or wigs that pull on natural hair. People who frequently engage in these grooming practices are at a higher risk of developing traction alopecia.

Additionally, stress, poor nutrition, and certain medications can exacerbate hair loss across all types of alopecia. For example, chemotherapy drugs are known to cause temporary alopecia by targeting rapidly dividing cells, including hair follicles.

Available Treatments for Alopecia

The treatment of alopecia varies depending on the type of hair loss, its severity, and the underlying cause. Some forms of alopecia can be reversed or managed. Others may require long-term treatment strategies. Below is an overview of available treatments for each type of alopecia.

1. Alopecia Areata Treatments

There is no cure for alopecia areata. However, there are several treatments that can help manage symptoms and encourage hair regrowth:

• Corticosteroids: These anti-inflammatory medications can be administered through injections, topical creams, or oral pills to suppress the immune system’s attack on hair follicles.
• Minoxidil (Rogaine): Topically applied to the scalp, minoxidil helps stimulate hair regrowth in some cases of alopecia areata.
• Anthralin: A topical medication used to treat skin conditions like psoriasis, anthralin can be applied to bald patches to promote hair regrowth.
• JAK inhibitors: Emerging research shows that Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors, such as tofacitinib and ruxolitinib, can help restore hair in individuals with alopecia areata by blocking the immune response.

2. Androgenetic Alopecia Treatments

For male and female pattern baldness, treatment options focus on slowing hair loss and stimulating hair growth:

• Minoxidil (Rogaine): One of the most common treatments for androgenetic alopecia is available over the counter. It works by promoting hair regrowth and slowing hair loss.
• Finasteride (Propecia): This oral prescription medication primarily treats male pattern baldness by reducing DHT levels. Due to potential side effects, it is not typically used for women.
• Low-level laser therapy (LLLT): LLLT devices, such as laser combs and caps, stimulate hair follicles and promote regrowth.
• Hair transplantation: In more advanced cases, hair transplantation surgery can provide a permanent solution by relocating hair follicles from healthy areas of the scalp to thinning or bald areas.

3. Traction Alopecia Treatments

The primary treatment for traction alopecia is removing the source of tension on the hair. In cases of early-stage traction alopecia, hair regrowth is possible once the damaging hairstyle is discontinued.

• Hairstyle modification: Switching to looser hairstyles and avoiding frequent use of heat styling tools can help prevent further hair loss.
• Topical treatments: Minoxidil can stimulate hair regrowth in mild cases.
• Hair restoration procedures: Hair transplant surgery may be an option for severe cases where hair follicles have been permanently damaged.

Success Rate of Treatment Options

The success rates of treatments for alopecia depend on the type of alopecia and the specific treatment used. No treatment works universally for all patients. Research and clinical data offer general insights into the effectiveness of various options.

• Alopecia Areata: 30-70% success rate depending on treatment, with corticosteroids and JAK inhibitors being the most effective.
• Androgenetic Alopecia: 40-80% success rate depending on the treatment, with finasteride and minoxidil offering the highest likelihood of success.
• Traction Alopecia: Early intervention can result in a 70-90% success rate, while hair transplant surgery is effective for more advanced cases.

It’s important to note that the effectiveness of these treatments varies from person to person based on factors like the type and severity of alopecia, the timing of treatment, and individual response. Consulting with a dermatologist or trichologist is essential to find the most appropriate treatment plan tailored to an individual’s condition.

An Alternative Treatment Option

Cryotherapy, which involves using extreme cold to freeze and remove abnormal tissue, has been explored as a potential treatment for certain types of alopecia. In particular, alopecia areata. The logic behind this approach is that cold exposure might reduce inflammation and modulate the immune response, which is central to alopecia areata.

How Cryotherapy Might Work

Cryotherapy is thought to work by:

• Reducing inflammation: The cold may reduce inflammation in the scalp by temporarily suppressing the immune system in the treated area.
• Stimulating hair follicles: In some cases, the cold temperatures could stimulate dormant or damaged hair follicles, potentially promoting hair regrowth.

Evidence and Effectiveness

Small studies and anecdotal evidence support the use of cryotherapy for alopecia areata. However, it is not a widely accepted or standard treatment. Research on the effectiveness of cryotherapy for alopecia is still limited and inconsistent. Some studies have shown mild to moderate hair regrowth in patients, while others have seen no significant benefit.

Moreover, cryotherapy is not commonly used for androgenetic alopecia or traction alopecia. The mechanisms driving these types of hair loss are different. Androgenetic alopecia is caused by hormonal and genetic factors, while traction alopecia is due to physical strain on the hair follicles. Cryotherapy does not directly address these underlying causes.

Risks and Considerations

While cryotherapy is generally safe when performed by trained professionals, it can cause side effects such as:

• Skin irritation: The cold can irritate the scalp or cause mild burns if not applied properly.
• Discomfort: Some patients may experience discomfort or pain during the procedure.

Final Answer

Cryotherapy may hold some potential for alopecia areata, but it is not a first-line treatment. Its effectiveness remains under investigation, and more research is needed to determine its long-term benefits and safety. For now, other treatments, such as corticosteroids, minoxidil, or JAK inhibitors, are more commonly recommended for alopecia. Cryotherapy may be an option in conjunction with the doctor-prescribed treatments for alopecia areata.

If someone is considering cryotherapy for alopecia, it’s essential they consult with a dermatologist to determine the most appropriate and effective treatment for their specific type of hair loss.

How Hairstylists Can Spot Alopecia

Hairstylists are often the first line of defense when spotting the early signs of alopecia. They have intimate knowledge of their client’s hair health and are trained in many skin conditions. By being vigilant and educated about the different types of alopecia, hairstylists can play a critical role in helping clients identify potential issues and seek treatment early.

Here are some key signs that hairstylists should look for:

• Unusual or excessive hair shedding: While losing some hair during washing or styling is normal, a noticeable increase in shedding could indicate the onset of alopecia.
• Thinning patches or bald spots: Any noticeable thinning or bald spots, especially in patterns typical of alopecia areata or androgenetic alopecia, should be noted and discussed with the client.
• Receding hairline: A receding hairline could be a sign of androgenetic alopecia, particularly in male clients.
• Damaged hair or broken strands: Clients with traction alopecia may show signs of breakage or damage, particularly around the hairline or areas where tight hairstyles are worn.

How Hairstylists Can Help Clients with Alopecia

Once a hairstylist identifies signs of alopecia, the next step is approaching the situation with sensitivity and professionalism. Many clients may be unaware of the condition or feel self-conscious about their hair loss. Here’s how hairstylists can support their clients:

Open a Gentle Conversation

Begin by addressing the issue delicately. For example, a stylist could say, “I’ve noticed some thinning in this area. It might be helpful to consult a dermatologist to rule out any underlying conditions.” They typically avoid using alarmist language or making the client feel self-conscious.

Recommend Professional Consultation

Encourage the client to see a dermatologist or trichologist (a hair and scalp specialist) for a professional diagnosis. Stylists can provide their clients with a list of reputable specialists or dermatologists.

Suggest Low-Tension Hairstyles

For clients with traction alopecia, hairstylists can recommend hairstyles that minimize tension on the hair, such as loose braids or buns. Educating clients on the importance of avoiding tight hairstyles and heat styling can help prevent further hair loss.

Offer Hair Care Solutions

Stylists can recommend gentle, sulfate-free shampoos, conditioners, and treatments designed to support scalp health and reduce irritation. They can also advise clients on protective styling techniques that reduce hair stress.

Provide Emotional Support

Many clients struggling with alopecia may feel embarrassed or upset. Offering a compassionate, understanding ear can help clients feel supported. Additionally, stylists can suggest options like wigs, hairpieces, or extensions to help clients feel more confident as they explore treatment options.

A Men’s Salon Can Help

FOR MEN Salon | Spa promotes Alopecia Awareness Month. We understand it serves as a crucial opportunity to educate and raise awareness about a condition affecting millions across the United States. In all its various forms, this condition can manifest in different ways. In all cases, early detection and intervention are vital to managing hair loss.

As trusted professionals who see clients regularly, hairstylists are uniquely positioned to spot the early signs of alopecia. They can guide their clients toward the appropriate medical treatments and lifestyle changes. By being knowledgeable about the different types of alopecia and fostering open, supportive conversations with their clients, hairstylists can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those affected by this condition.