Alopecia Areata

Alopecia Areata is an autoimmune condition where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the hair follicles, leading to sudden, well-defined patches of hair loss. It can affect the scalp, beard, eyebrows, eyelashes, or any hair-bearing area on the body. At RAY-Clinic, early diagnosis and targeted treatment help control inflammation, stimulate regrowth, and prevent further patch formation.

What Is Alopecia Areata?

Alopecia Areata is a non-contagious, immune-mediated disorder.

Key features include:

  • Sudden onset
  • Round or oval bald patches
  • Smooth, normal-looking skin on the patch
  • Possible recurrence or multiple patches
  • Sometimes associated with nail pitting or ridging

The condition can be unpredictable—patches may regrow spontaneously or expand without treatment.

Types of Alopecia Areata

Patchy Alopecia Areata

Isolated round patches

Alopecia Totalis

Complete scalp hair loss

Alopecia Universalis

Loss of body and scalp hair

Ophiasis Pattern

Band-like loss along sides/back

Beard Alopecia

Patchy loss in beard area

Early identification of the pattern helps determine prognosis and treatment intensity.

Causes & Triggers

Although the exact cause is unknown, factors may include:

  • Autoimmune activity
  • Genetic predisposition
  • Stress (physical or emotional)
  • Viral illnesses
  • Atopy (allergy-prone tendency)
  • Thyroid or other autoimmune associations

Diagnosis at RAY-Clinic

Diagnosis is clinical but may involve:

  • Dermatoscopy to evaluate follicular openings
  • Pull test to check active shedding
  • Blood tests (thyroid, vitamin D, ANA) only if needed
  • Evaluation for nail involvement or associated conditions

A proper assessment guides targeted therapy.

Treatment Options

1. Intralesional Steroid Injections

The most effective treatment for active, limited patches.

Benefits:

  • Stops inflammation
  • Encourages rapid regrowth
  • Minimally painful and quick

Given once every 3–6 weeks depending on response.

2. Topical Medications

  • Topical steroids
  • Immunotherapy lotions
  • Minoxidil

These help stimulate regrowth and maintain active follicles.

3. Oral Medications

For rapidly progressing or extensive cases:

  • Low-dose steroids (short course)
  • Immunomodulators (if required)

Used strictly under dermatologist guidance.

4. PRP / GFC Therapy

Boosts local growth factors and promotes:

  • Faster regrowth
  • Stronger hair
  • Reduction in patch size

5. Exosome Therapy

Supports immune modulation and enhances follicle recovery, especially in resistant cases.

6. JAK Inhibitors (Advanced Cases)

Oral or topical JAK inhibitors may be used in:

  • Severe cases
  • Resistant cases
  • Extensive Alopecia Areata

These require careful monitoring and specialist supervision.

Expected Results

  • Early patches often regrow within 4–12 weeks
  • Regrowth may appear thin or white initially
  • With consistent treatment, normal color and thickness return
  • Recurrence is possible; maintenance care may be required

When Should You Seek Treatment?

  • ✓ Sudden bald patches on scalp or beard
  • ✓ Rapidly increasing patches
  • ✓ Recurrent hair loss episodes
  • ✓ Nail changes like pits or ridges
  • ✓ Hair coming out easily when pulled

Why Choose RAY-Clinic for Alopecia Areata?

  • Accurate diagnosis with trichoscopy
  • Early intervention for faster regrowth
  • Combination therapies for better outcomes
  • Expertise in steroid, PRP/GFC & advanced protocols
  • Long-term monitoring to control flare-ups

Stop Patch Formation. Regrow Hair.

Book a consultation for alopecia areata treatment at RAY-Clinic

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