Can hair grow back after baldness? The doctor mentioned cases when it is possible

doctor, dermatologist, cosmetologist, master of Soft Laser and Epilaserman laser hair removal

“When talking about pathologic hair loss, doctors use the term alopecia when hair loss exceeds 100-120 hairs per day. It affects both men and women of all ethnic groups. It can begin at any age. The types and causes of this phenomenon are numerous.”

Consider androgenetic and focal alopecia are the most common types of hair loss in adults.

Androgenetic alopecia and causes

It is believed that only men are affected by it, but it is the most common type of alopecia in women. The only difference is the age of onset: about 50% of European men over 50 (up to 80% by the age of 70) and about 50% of women over 65 experience it.

Male pattern hair loss and female pattern hair loss are slightly different, although the cause is the same – a combination of genetic and hormonal factors. The hormone dihydrotestosterone causes changes in the hair follicles on the scalp. The hair produced in the affected follicles becomes smaller in diameter, shorter and lighter in color until eventually the follicles change completely and the hair stops growing.

In girls, androgenetic alopecia can be associated with conditions in which androgen levels are elevated, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Its signs include: acne, increased facial and body hair, irregular menstruation and infertility. If you suspect PCOS, you should see a gynecologist.

Is it treatable?

Unfortunately, no. However, there are a number of remedies that help to slow down the process and partially restore hair. Doctors can prescribe oral medications, the effect of which is noticeable with continuous intake of the drug for three to six months.

There are also side effects, which are expressed in decreased libido and erectile problems, and the positive effect fades within 6-12 months after treatment is stopped.

There is also a surgical method – hair transplantation. This is a procedure in which hair follicles are taken from the back and sides of the head and transplanted to the affected areas.

Androgenetic alopecia progresses slowly, from a few years to decades. Although an earlier age of onset can lead to more rapid hair loss.

Focal alopecia or alopecia areata

Dermatologists consider this condition to be an autoimmune disease that often begins with small, coin-sized patches of hair loss on the scalp or all over the body, including the beard, eyebrows, eyelashes, and even pubic hair.

In focal alopecia areata, T cells of the immune system gather around the hair follicles and attack it, preventing the follicle from producing more hair. The mechanism of focal alopecia areata is still not fully understood.

This form of alopecia occurs in both men and women of all ages and in 50% of cases begins in childhood. Approximately 1 in 1,000 people have a form of focal alopecia, regardless of ethnicity. A family history of focal alopecia or other autoimmune diseases is present in 10-25% of patients.

There are several variants of the disease, all of which differ in the extent of the affected areas, ranging from alopecia barbae, in which the areas of hair loss are small and affect only the beard and mustache, to universal alopecia, in which hair is lost all over the body.

How does it start?

The first symptom is often sudden, focal hair loss. Sometimes the patches enlarge and merge. In some, the process is so rapid that all the locks on the scalp are lost without any individual patches appearing.

This condition may be accompanied by tingling, itching, burning and headaches, but many people do not experience pain.

To make a correct diagnosis, you should see a specialist who will perform a trichoscopy (examination of the hair and scalp under a microscope). A skin biopsy may also be needed.

Is it permanent?

No. Focal alopecia areata does not cause permanent hair loss. The hair follicles are not destroyed and hair can re-grow. Usually within a few months or years, but it is not always possible to guarantee this.

Many people with focal alopecia areata experience a complete resumption of hair growth. However, once the condition develops into total or universal alopecia, there is less chance of full regrowth.

How to treat?

Alas, there is no cure for focal alopecia, however, many treatments are being developed, but none of them guarantees 100% effectiveness. Many people experience spontaneous resumption of hair growth without treatment. The use of medication is more likely to be effective in milder cases with small patches of hair loss.

Other causes of hair loss to look out for, however obvious they may seem:

Nutrient deficiencies

Sudden weight loss or protein deficiency can lead to hair loss. In addition, deficiencies in iron, niacin, fatty acids, selenium and zinc can trigger both hair loss and thinning hair. The same goes for excessive intake of vitamins E and A.

Diseases and medications

Ringworm leads to temporary hair loss, as do psychiatric diseases (e.g., trichotillomania, a disorder involving a recurrent and irresistible urge to pull body hair).

In some cases, medications for the therapy of other conditions can cause hair loss as a side effect. These include those prescribed for arthritis, cancer, depression, cardiovascular disease and gout.

Stress

The physiological effects of stress affect the health of the entire body, including the hair. An increased risk of hair loss occurs through a number of mechanisms, one of which is the pro-inflammatory environment caused by stress.

What are some general care tips for alopecia areata?

The hair protects the scalp from the sun’s rays, so it is important to take care of the affected areas. To prevent sunburn, you should apply sunscreen to the problem areas or wear a head covering.

Is there prevention?

There are steps you can take to keep your hair healthy and minimize hair loss. Eat a healthy diet rich in vitamins A, C, D and E, as well as iron and zinc. Find ways to manage stress. Control thyroid problems or other medical issues that can lead to hair loss. Also, avoid hairstyles that tightly constrict your locks.