Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition and happens when your immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles. It can cause patches of baldness, brittle nails and loss of eyebrows or eyelashes.

Also called male or female pattern hair loss, this type occurs when androgen hormones shrink your hair follicles. It often causes hair thinning at the top of the head or the temples.

This type of alopecia causes inflammation and scarring of the hair follicles and may be caused by a genetic predisposition. The hair loss usually begins in the center of your scalp.

This type of alopecia leaves scarring and it may be an autoimmune condition. This condition often causes hair loss at the front or back of your hairline or loss of the outer parts of your eyebrows.

Experts believe this type of hair loss is an autoimmune condition. It may cause patches on your scalp that are bald, red or scaly and it can cause scarring.

This temporary hair loss occurs two to three months after physical or emotional stress or hormonal changes. You may notice larger amounts of hair coming out when you wash or brush your hair.

Traction alopecia can affect people who frequently wear tight hairstyles, such as braids, cornrows and locs. The hair loss usually begins at the front of your hairline but can occur wherever the hairstyle is pulling or rubbing your hair follicles.

Your provider will ask you about your symptoms and health history. They may also ask you about conditions that run in your family.

Blood tests can identify or rule out some conditions that can cause hair loss, such as nutrient deficiencies, hormonal issues and thyroid disease.

This test uses a powerful magnifying lens to examine your hair follicles. It can also distinguish between scarring or non-scarring types of alopecia.

We may take a small sample of skin to examine under a microscope. The UC Davis Health Dermatopathology Service specializes in providing highly accurate, timely results.

These topical alopecia areata treatments can encourage hair regrowth disrupting the autoimmune response to your hair follicles. It can promote hair growth in people with alopecia areata.

Drugs like finasteride, dutasteride and spironolactone help block the androgen hormones that can trigger hair loss. These medications are typically pills you take daily.

Corticosteroids fight inflammation and reduce immune system activity. These medications can treat alopecia areata and scarring hair loss and may be topical (applied on the skin) or injections (shots).

If alopecia areata or scarring alopecia does not respond to topical treatments, your doctor may recommend immunosuppressants such as janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors. These medications calm an overactive immune system, stopping the attack on hair follicles.

This medication stimulates hair follicles and extends your hair’s growth phase. A topical version is available over the counter, or your doctor may prescribe an oral (pill) version.

If your blood tests show a nutritional deficiency, our team may prescribe supplements to correct it. We may combine supplements with other treatments, such as Minoxidil, for optimal results.

Chemical relaxers, perms and hot oil treatments can damage the hair shaft. If you get these treatments, give your hair breaks from them when you can.

Limit tight hairstyles that pull on roots and wear your hair down when possible. Use a satin or silk pillowcase or sleep cap to protect your scalp while sleeping.

Good nutrition helps nourish your hair follicles. Focus on eating a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean protein.

Wash with mild shampoo and avoid high heat styling. Gently wrap or pat hair and do not rub with a towel.