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Skin concerns

Alopecia areata

Hair loss in circular areas, often sudden. Autoimmune disease with unpredictable evolution — early assessment by a dermatologist is useful.

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What is alopecia areata

Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks active hair follicles. It is manifested by sudden loss of hair in well-defined areas, typically circular, on the scalp — but it may involve beard, eyebrows or other areas with hair.

It affects people of any age, peaking between 15 and 35. Evolution is unpredictable — some people spontaneously recover, others have repeated outbreaks or extensive forms.

Signs and symptoms

  • Circular or oval areas without hair, with well-defined contours.
  • Smooth skin in the affected areas — no peeling or evident inflammation.
  • Hair in "exclamation point" on the edge of the areas (shorter and thinner at the base).
  • Usually sudden appearance.
  • It may involve scalp, beard, eyebrows, eyelashes or body hair.
  • In the extensive forms — total loss of the hair of the scalp (total alopecia) or of the whole hair of the body (universal alopecia).

Causes

  • Autoimmune disease with genetic predisposition.
  • Combination with other autoimmune diseases — thyroid, vitiligo, type 1 diabetes.
  • Possible triggers — intense stress, infections, hormonal changes.
  • It is not related to lack of hygiene, diet or use of hair products.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis is clinical. In an online consultation, the dermatologist evaluates photographs of the affected areas at various angles and a questionnaire about onset, evolution, family history and other diseases. Blood testing may be recommended to exclude other associated autoimmune diseases.

In doubtful cases or in more extensive forms, face-to-face trichoscopy confirms the diagnosis.

Options for treatment

Treatment depends on the extent, age and duration of the condition. Many mild cases recover spontaneously; others benefit from early intervention.

Topical application

Applied in affected areas, indicated by the dermatologist. Basis of treatment in mild and localised forms.

systemic treatment

Reserved for extensive or resistant forms. Individually evaluated with clinical follow-up.

Psychological support

The emotional impact can be significant, especially in young people or in extensive forms. Psychological support and patient associations are part of a complete approach.

Talk to a dermatologist about alopecia areata

No months-long wait for an in-person appointment. Each case reaches the dermatologist already prepared with photographs, history and questionnaire answers. Choose a report in under 24h or a booked video consultation.

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Frequently asked questions

Is the hair born again?

Yes, in most mild forms — often spontaneously in months. In the most extensive forms the answer is unpredictable. There may be recurrences throughout life.

Is it contagious?

Nope. Alopecia areata is not transmitted among people — it is an autoimmune disease.

Is online consultation for alopecia areata?

Yeah. Because of the characteristic aspect the diagnosis is often possible by photography. The dermatologist proposes the plan and indicates whether it justifies complementary face-to-face evaluation.

Is it related to stress?

Stress may be a trigger for some people, but it's not the only cause. The base is autoimmune with genetic predisposition. Reducing stress helps, but it doesn't replace treatment.

Evaluate the alopecia areata early

Send photos of the affected areas. A dermatologist analyzes the case and proposes the plan.