Alopecia areata is a condition where hair falls out in small round patches. Hair loss varies from person to person but it is only known to affect the hair on the scalp. So what is alopecia universalis? It is a severe form of alopecia areata that not only affects the scalp but also other parts of the body like the eyebrows and eyelashes.
Alopecia universalis causes hair loss due to an autoimmune disease, where the hair follicles are mistakenly attacked by the immune system. The chances of hair growing back are very likely but it is also possible that it could fall out again. Hair regrowth in alopecia universalis is unpredictable. The progression or regression of the disease depends from person to person. It may be comforting to know that hair follicles remain alive in all forms of alopecia areata, and get ready to get back to hair production as soon as they receive the right signals. It is quite possible that hair regrowth could occur without any treatment, and after many years.
Hair loss in the scalp in the form of small round patches and around the eyebrows and lashes are the common alopecia universalis symptoms. This disease can also impact a person psychologically. Unfortunately, since it is one of the more severe forms of alopecia areata, the treatment methods are limited. The most common treatment forms are cortisone pills and immunotherapy. Both treatments however cause side effects. Hair growth can stop after you stop taking cortisone pills. The application of topical immunotherapy is a much preferred way of treatment and 40 percent of patients who have used this therapy have seen successful results in six months. It is important to remember though that even though hair growth can reoccur, these forms of treatment cannot cure the underlying cause of the disease.
Apart from medications and topical ointments, more and more people are also looking at alternative therapies in conjunction with conventional treatment. Some of the treatment options include acupuncture, aromatherapy, a nutritional and balanced diet with increased intake of protein, zinc and iron supplements. There are studies to prove that a blend of essential oils like lavender, thyme, rosemary, and cedar wood mixed with carrier oils such as grape seed or jojoba can help to stimulate and improve hair growth.
Reference:
http://www.niams.nih.gov/health_info/alopecia_areata/
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