Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition that causes hair loss on the scalp, face, and other parts of the body. It can be a psychologically devastating disease, and many people are searching for ways to stop it from spreading.
In this article, we will discuss what alopecia areata is, its causes, how to stop alopecia areata from spreading and natural remedies to prevent its spread. If home remedies don’t work, we will also explore medical treatments. If you’re looking for expert advice, consider consulting a dermatologist at StylzPlus Hair Salon for personalized guidance.
What is Alopecia Areata?
Alopecia areata is an autoimmune illness characterized by hair loss, typically in quarter-sized clumps. The condition affects people of all ages, sexes, and ethnic groups, often appearing during childhood. It can manifest differently in each person, resulting in varying degrees of hair loss. Some may experience hair loss in small patches, while others may have more extensive losses.
Types of Alopecia
There are different types of alopecia, with alopecia areata being the most common. Other types include:
1. Alopecia areata totalis: Complete hair loss on the head.
2. Diffuse alopecia areata: Sudden hair thinning rather than specific patches.
3. Ophiasis alopecia areata: Hair loss in a band-like pattern around the sides and back of the head.
Causes of Alopecia Areata
Alopecia areata is considered an autoimmune disease, where the immune system mistakenly attacks the hair follicles. While genetics play a role in most cases, other factors can trigger the condition. These include inflammation due to illness, dietary intolerances, physical and emotional stress, hormonal changes (more common in females), and lifestyle factors such as diet, exercise, and sleep.
How can I prevent hair alopecia?
Avoid harsh hair treatments like heating tools, hair dye and bleaching. Hairstyles like tight ponytails or braids can affect your hair as well. Keep your scalp healthy by washing your hair and scalp regularly. “Any inflammation on the scalp will affect the hair growth cycle,”
How to Stop Alopecia Areata from Spreading Naturally
If you want to prevent alopecia areata from spreading naturally, you can try the following home remedies:
Probiotics:
Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that help regulate the immune system. They can be taken as supplements or consumed through probiotic-rich foods like kefir, kombucha, cultured vegetables, yogurt, and apple cider vinegar.
Essential Oil of Lavender:
Lavender essential oil acts as an antioxidant and reduces inflammation. Applying lavender oil topically to bald areas has shown promising results in increasing hair follicles and strengthening the dermal layer, according to animal studies.
Zinc:
Zinc supplementation can be beneficial, especially for those who are zinc deficient. Low blood zinc levels are common in people with alopecia areata. Foods rich in zinc include pumpkin seeds, grass-fed beef, lamb, chickpeas, cashews, yogurt, and spinach.
Acupuncture:
Acupuncture can help suppress the immune cells attacking hair follicles, reduce inflammation, and improve blood circulation to the affected area.
Reduce Stress:
To prevent the spread of Alopecia Areata, managing stress becomes crucial. During stressful periods, focus on improving nutrition, sleep patterns, and engaging in physical activity. While complete stress elimination is impossible, steps can be taken to minimize it.
Incorporate relaxation techniques like meditation and deep breathing into your routine. Regular exercise and sufficient sleep are vital. Additionally, consult a healthcare professional for proper treatment options, such as topical or oral medications, injections, or therapies like immunotherapy or light therapy.
Early intervention and stress management can help reduce the spread of Alopecia Areata and promote healthy hair growth.
Foods That Help Alopecia
Eating nutrient-dense foods with anti-inflammatory properties can support the treatment of alopecia areata. Consider incorporating the following foods into your diet:
- Green leafy vegetables
- Beets
- Broccoli
- Blueberries
- Nuts
- Seeds
- Turmeric
- Ginger
- Bone broth
- Coconut oil
Medical Treatments for Alopecia Areata
If natural remedies don’t work, medical treatments can be considered. Some commonly used treatments for alopecia areata include:
Corticosteroid injections:
These injections are administered to the affected areas of the scalp or other body parts every four to eight weeks. Studies have shown that more than 80% of individuals with patchy hair loss experienced at least 50% hair regrowth after 12 weeks of corticosteroid injections.
Topical corticosteroids:
These creams can be applied to bald spots once or twice a day as prescribed by a dermatologist. They can support hair regrowth, especially in children.
Phototherapy:
Phototherapy using ultraviolet A-1 (UVA-1) has shown promise in increasing hair growth and reversing alopecia areata.
Alopecia Areata Regrowth Signs
In many cases, the bald spots or patches of alopecia areata can regain hair within a few months, especially in children and teenagers. However, the regrown hair may have a different color and may appear grey or white temporarily.
Hair regrowth in cases of alopecia areata typically initiates from the middle of the bald area, beginning with delicate white hair. Over time, this hair thickens and usually regains its original color.
In addition, individuals affected by alopecia areata may also develop small depressions on their nails, resembling the indentations found on a thimble.
Consult a Skin Specialist Today!
If home remedies are not effective in stopping the spread of alopecia areata, it is advisable to consult a skin specialist. StylzPlus Salon, can provide personalized advice and recommend the best treatment options for your condition.
Remember, addressing alopecia areata requires patience and a comprehensive approach. By combining natural remedies, medical treatments, and expert guidance, you can improve your chances of stopping alopecia areata from spreading and promoting hair regrowth.
Contact StylzPlus Hair Salon today to schedule a consultation with our skin specialists and take the first step towards managing your alopecia areata effectively.
Wrap up!
Preventing the spread of Alopecia Areata can be a difficult task, but there are ways to manage it. By following the natural remedies mentioned in this article, such as using probiotics, lavender essential oil, zinc, acupuncture, and reducing stress, you can potentially slow down the progression of the condition.
If home remedies don’t work, seeking medical treatments like corticosteroid injections or topical corticosteroids can be beneficial. Remember, it’s important to consult with a dermatologist for personalized advice. For expert guidance and treatment options, contact StylzPlus Hair Salon and take the first step towards managing your Alopecia Areata effectively.