Bald head patches, also known as alopecia areata, are a common autoimmune disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. While there is no cure for alopecia areata, there are a number of treatments that can help to manage the condition and promote hair regrowth.
1. Minoxidil
Minoxidil is a topical medication that is applied to the scalp twice a day. It is available over-the-counter in both liquid and foam formulations. Minoxidil works by increasing blood flow to the hair follicles, which can help to promote hair growth. It is most effective when used in the early stages of alopecia areata.
2. Corticosteroids
Corticosteroids are a type of medication that can be used to reduce inflammation. They are available in both topical and oral formulations. Topical corticosteroids are applied directly to the scalp, while oral corticosteroids are taken by mouth. Corticosteroids can be effective in treating alopecia areata, but they can also cause side effects, such as skin irritation and weight gain.
3. Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy is a type of treatment that uses the body’s own immune system to fight alopecia areata. There are a number of different types of immunotherapy, including topical immunotherapy, intralesional immunotherapy, and systemic immunotherapy. Topical immunotherapy involves applying a medication to the scalp that stimulates the immune system. Intralesional immunotherapy involves injecting a medication into the bald patches. Systemic immunotherapy involves taking a medication by mouth that suppresses the immune system.
Effective Strategies
- Use a gentle shampoo and conditioner. Avoid using harsh chemicals or styling products that can irritate the scalp.
- Protect your scalp from the sun. Wear a hat or use sunscreen when you are outdoors.
- Manage stress. Stress can trigger alopecia areata. Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as exercise, yoga, or meditation.
- Get regular checkups. See your doctor regularly to monitor your progress and adjust your treatment plan as needed.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Don’t scratch or pick at your bald patches. This can damage the hair follicles and make alopecia areata worse.
- Don’t use harsh treatments. Avoid using harsh chemicals or styling products that can irritate the scalp.
- Don’t give up. Alopecia areata can be a frustrating condition, but it is important to remember that there are treatments that can help. Don’t give up on your treatment plan.
Tables
| Treatment | Dosage | Side Effects |
|---|---|---|
| Minoxidil | 2% solution or 5% foam applied to the scalp twice a day | Skin irritation, itching, burning |
| Corticosteroids | Topical: 0.05% to 0.1% cream or ointment applied to the scalp twice a day; Oral: 10 to 60 mg per day | Skin irritation, weight gain, acne |
| Immunotherapy | Topical: Diphenylcyclopropenone (DPCP) or squaric acid dibutyl ester (SADBE) applied to the scalp once a week; Intralesional: Triamcinolone acetonide injected into the bald patches every 4 to 8 weeks; Systemic: Methotrexate or azathioprine taken by mouth once a day | Skin irritation, itching, burning, nausea, vomiting, hair loss |
| Cause | Prevalence | Symptoms |
|---|---|---|
| Autoimmune disorder | 0.1% to 0.2% of the population | Round or oval bald patches on the scalp, eyebrows, or beard; Itching or burning sensation on the scalp; Nail pitting or ridging |
| Genetics | 20% to 40% of cases | Family history of alopecia areata; Onset of symptoms before the age of 30 |
| Environmental factors | Stress, illness, or trauma | Sudden onset of symptoms; Bald patches that are larger than 1 inch in diameter |
| Type of Alopecia Areata | Symptoms | Treatment |
|---|---|---|
| Alopecia areata | Small, round or oval bald patches on the scalp | Minoxidil, corticosteroids, immunotherapy |
| Alopecia totalis | Complete loss of hair on the scalp | Corticosteroids, immunotherapy |
| Alopecia universalis | Complete loss of hair on the scalp, eyebrows, and eyelashes | Corticosteroids, immunotherapy |