Alopecia areata is quite common and is the most common form of hair loss. So far, circular hair loss is not yet curable. We will explain in detail which treatment options are possible and can alleviate hair loss.
We lose hair every day. About 100 pieces are quite normal and harmless. However, if the hair falls out in clumps and leaves bald spots, this is a pathological hair loss . This so-called circular hair loss – also known as alopecia areata – is one of the most common forms of hair loss.
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Causes of circular hair loss
According to experts, a disorder in the immune system is the reason why circular hair loss occurs. An autoimmune reaction ensures that immune cells attack the cells in the hair roots. The result: an inflammatory reaction occurs that impairs hair growth and eventually causes the hair to fall out. However, the hair root is not destroyed. It is therefore possible for the hair to grow back again. Interesting: men and women are equally affected by circular hair loss.
The circular hair loss mostly affects the hair on the head, but can also appear in other areas such as the eyebrows or beard. Initially, the hair loss only occurs in a small area and spreads further. Anyone who discovers bald patches should see a dermatologist to have the exact cause clarified. According to the Professional Association of German Dermatologists (BVDD), hair loss can also be caused by other diseases such as a fungus.
Treatment of circular hair loss – the 4 best tips
Unfortunately, there is no miracle cure or promising therapeutic approach that will help you regain a magnificent and beautiful mane. However, there are various treatment options that stimulate hair growth.
Therapy with skin-irritating substances
One of the oldest treatments are skin-irritating substances such as anthralin (cignolin), chrysarobin, or capsaicin. The substance is said to cause skin irritation and thus stimulate hair growth.
Zinc intake
The trace element is considered an important component of numerous enzymes. Thanks to zinc , our scalp stays healthy so that it supplies our hair with important nutrients. Zinc also appreciates our immune system – it can therefore help to reduce inflammation. For this reason, zinc can be beneficial for circular hair loss. Talk to your doctor before taking it and find out whether you should also take zinc.
Don’t over-groom your hair
To keep your hair and scalp healthy, you shouldn’t overdo it. Constant hair washing, blow-drying and styling dries out skin and hair. Let your doctor advise you on which products he recommends for your hair care. Certain shampoos or lotions have a stimulating effect on your scalp. The good news: hair coloring does not affect the circular hair loss. But here too, too frequent and aggressive dyeing attacks the hair, making it straw-like and brittle.
psychotherapy
Suffering from hair loss is a great burden for most sufferers and can even trigger depression. Psychotherapy can help to deal with the diagnosis more easily. Because additional emotional stress can also affect your hair growth.