Alopecia areata (patchy hair loss)

Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own hair follicles. It causes sudden, round and smooth bald patches — usually in the scalp, but it can also affect the beard, eyebrows and body hair. The condition is completely different from hereditary hair loss. An important thing to know: alopecia areata is not scarring. The follicles are not destroyed but go into a "dormant" state. That is why the hair often returns spontaneously within a few months to a year, completely without treatment. In more extensive or long-lasting cases, a dermatologist can treat with corticosteroids (topically or as an injection) or other immunomodulating medication. This is also why a hair transplant is normally not suitable during active alopecia areata — the immune system would attack the transplanted follicles too, and since your own follicles are alive and can recover, there is rarely any reason to operate. We therefore advise against a transplant during active disease. If you suspect alopecia areata, we primarily recommend an assessment by a doctor or dermatologist. You are welcome to us for a free consultation where we help you understand what you are seeing and guide you on to the right care.