Introduction to Alopecia

Alopecia from stress is a condition that causes hair loss in a variety of forms and with different implications. This generic term covers a wide range of disorders that can affect the scalp, and in some cases, the whole body. Hair loss may be partial, with small bald areas, or total, leading to complete baldness. Alopecia does not discriminate on the basis of age, gender or ethnicity and can have a devastating impact on the quality of life of those affected, affecting not only their physical appearance, but also their psychological well-being.

Over the years, medical research has identified several causes of alopecia, ranging from genetic and hormonal factors to autoimmune and mechanical causes. Understanding the specific characteristics of each type of alopecia is crucial in order to adopt the most effective treatment. In this article, we will explore the various types of alopecia, available treatments and non-medical options for dealing with hair loss, such as high-quality hair implants.

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Types of Alopecia

Alopecia manifests itself in many forms, each with its own causes, symptoms and treatments. Below, we look at the main types of alopecia, offering a detailed overview of each.

Alopecia Areata

What is Alopecia Areata?

Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles, causing hair to fall out in small round patches. It is one of the most common forms of alopecia and can affect people of all ages, although it often first occurs during childhood or adolescence. Alopecia areata can occur in different forms: from localised hair loss to a more extensive form known as alopecia totalis, which involves the loss of all hair on the scalp, and alopecia universalis, which leads to the loss of all body hair.

Causes of Alopecia Areata

The exact cause of alopecia areata is not completely understood, but it is believed that a combination of genetic and environmental factors play a significant role. Some studies suggest that genetic predisposition, combined with triggering factors such as viral infections, physical or emotional stress, or other autoimmune diseases, may trigger the abnormal immune response that attacks hair follicles.

Symptoms of Alopecia Areata

The main symptom of alopecia areata is hair loss in round or oval patches on the scalp. However, in some cases, hair loss may also occur in other areas of the body, such as eyebrows, eyelashes, beard and body hair. The skin in affected areas generally appears smooth and free of inflammation.

Treatments for Alopecia Areata

Corticosteroid injections

Corticosteroid injections are one of the most common treatments for alopecia areata. Corticosteroids are powerful anti-inflammatory drugs that can suppress the immune system and reduce inflammation around hair follicles. Injections are generally administered directly into the bald areas of the scalp or body.

Ointments and Topical Creams

The application of topical corticosteroids, such as ointments or creams, can be used alone or in combination with other treatments. These drugs help stimulate hair growth and reduce inflammation. In some cases, other topical drugs, such as minoxidil or anthralin, may also be prescribed to enhance the effect.

Light Therapy (Phototherapy)

Phototherapy, or light therapy, is a treatment that uses ultraviolet (UV) light to stimulate hair growth. This treatment can be particularly useful for people with alopecia areata who do not respond well to topical medications or injections.

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Androgenetic Alopecia

What is Androgenetic Alopecia?

Androgenetic alopecia, commonly known as male or female pattern baldness, is one of the most common forms of hair loss and accounts for about 95% of all cases of alopecia. This condition is caused by a combination of genetic and hormonal factors, and occurs when hair follicles are sensitive to the hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT). This sensitivity causes the follicles to shrink, gradually reducing hair production until they disappear completely.

Causes of Androgenetic Alopecia

The main cause of androgenetic alopecia is the sensitivity of hair follicles to DHT, a derivative of testosterone. This sensitivity is largely genetically determined, which explains why the condition often runs in families. In men, androgenetic baldness tends to start with a recession of the hair line and thinning at the top of the scalp. In women, the thinning is generally more diffuse over the entire scalp.

Symptoms of Androgenetic Alopecia

In men, symptoms of androgenetic alopecia include thinning hair at the temples, leading to the characteristic 'M' shape of the hair line, and balding at the top of the scalp. In women, on the other hand, diffuse thinning occurs, particularly at the top of the scalp, while the front hair line usually remains intact.

Treatments for Androgenetic Alopecia

Minoxidil

Minoxidil is a topical drug approved for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia. It works by prolonging the growth (anagen) phase of the hair cycle, promoting hair regrowth and slowing hair loss. It is applied directly to the scalp and can be used by both men and women.

Finasteride

Finasteride is an oral medication that works by reducing DHT levels in the body. It is particularly effective in men and can prevent further hair loss by promoting regrowth in certain areas. However, it is not recommended for use in women of childbearing age due to potential side effects.

Hormone therapy

In women, hormone therapy may be an option to treat androgenetic alopecia, especially if hair loss is associated with hormonal imbalances, as in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). This therapy may include the use of oral contraceptives or other drugs that regulate androgen levels.

For more details on treatments for androgenetic alopecia, see our full article.

Telogen Effluvium

What is Telogen Effluvium?

Telogen effluvium is a form of alopecia characterised by a temporary increase in hair loss, which occurs when a large number of hair follicles prematurely enter the resting (telogen) phase of the hair cycle. This condition can be triggered by a variety of factors, including physical or emotional stress, hormonal changes, serious illnesses, surgery or the use of certain medications.

Causes of Telogen Effluvium

Telogen effluvium can be triggered by numerous factors that interfere with the natural hair growth cycle. These include:

• Physical or emotional stress: Traumatic events, such as the loss of a loved one or a serious accident, can cause a shock to the system, pushing the hair into the telogen phase.
• Hormonal changes: Pregnancy, childbirth, menopause or discontinuation of oral contraceptives can alter hormone levels, causing telogen effluvium.
• Diseases and drugs: Diseases such as the flu, high fever or chronic conditions, as well as certain medications, can contribute to hair loss.

Symptoms of Telogen Effluvium

The main symptom of telogen effluvium is a significant increase in hair loss, which can be noticed when washing, brushing or simply running one's hands through one's hair. Hair loss is diffuse, rather than limited to a specific area of the scalp, and can be temporary if the underlying cause is identified and treated.

Treatments for Telogen Effluvium

Stress Management

Since stress is a common trigger for telogen effluvium, it is essential to adopt strategies to manage stress effectively. Relaxation techniques such as meditation, yoga and cognitive-behavioural therapy can be helpful.

Lifestyle Improvement

A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals essential for healthy hair, regular exercise and adequate rest can help improve the hair growth cycle.

Identification and Treatment of Underlying Causes

Telogen effluvium often does not require specific treatment, as hair tends to grow back once the underlying cause is removed. However, identifying and addressing the underlying cause is crucial to prevent future relapses. If you want to learn more about how to improve the hair growth cycle, visit our blog.

Traction Alopecia

What is Traction Alopecia?

Traction alopecia is a form of hair loss caused by mechanical tension on the hair shaft, often due to hairstyles pulling hair, such as tight braids, ponytails and pigtails. This prolonged pulling damages the hair follicles and can lead to permanent hair loss if not corrected.

Causes of Traction Alopecia

Traction alopecia is mainly caused by styling habits that put stress on the hair. Common causes include:

• Tight braids and pigtails: Hairstyles that excessively pull on the hair can damage the hair follicles.
• Ponytails and chignons: Wearing one's hair tightly coiled can put constant tension on the hair follicles.
• Extensions and weaving applications: Prolonged use of extensions can increase the tension on natural hair.

Symptoms of Traction Alopecia

Symptoms of traction alopecia include redness, pain or a feeling of tension in the scalp, and the presence of broken or thinning hair in specific areas, especially along the hair line and temples.

Treatments for Traction Alopecia

Changing Styling Habits

The first step in treating traction alopecia is to avoid hairstyles that cause tension on the hair. Opting for softer, less stressful hairstyles can allow the follicles to recover.

Hydration and Scalp Care

Keeping the scalp moisturised and using products that promote healthy hair can help prevent further damage.

Medical Therapies

In more severe cases, where the damage is extensive, medical therapies, such as topical corticosteroids or injections, may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and stimulate hair growth.

Psychological Implications of Hair Loss

Hair loss can have a profound impact on a person's psychological well-being. People suffering from alopecia may experience anxiety, depression, low self-esteem and social isolation. Negative perceptions of one's appearance may negatively affect personal relationships and one's professional career. In some cases, alopecia can lead to more serious psychological disorders, such as dysmorphia (an obsessive-compulsive disorder in which the person is excessively preoccupied with perceived defects in one's appearance).

Psychological Support

Receive support Psychological counselling or group therapy can be of great help to people struggling with the emotional impact of alopecia. Talking to others who have gone through similar experiences can provide comfort and help develop strategies for coping with the condition.

Aesthetic Solutions and Capillary Prosthetics

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