Alopecia areata is an autoimmune skin disease that causes patchy spots of hair loss on the scalp and other parts of the body. It is estimated that around 700,000 Americans currently have some form of alopecia areata.
Treatments vary depending on the severity of the condition, and every individual with the diagnosis responds differently to different techniques. Many patients will regrow hair without treatment. Others experience hair regrowth from options such as topical or injected corticosteroids, oral medications, topical immunotherapy, or Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors that change the way a person’s immune system responds.
Sometimes alopecia areata doesn’t respond to first-line approaches. When you’ve tried a number of these therapies without noticeable hair regrowth, you might be said to have “treatment-resistant” alopecia areata, says Alexandra Bowles, DO, a board-certified dermatologist at MONA Dermatology in Cincinnati.
“When those treatments don’t work, it doesn’t mean there’s no hope,” she says. “It just means the condition is a bit more stubborn and may require a different approach.”
It may feel discouraging to have to try yet another treatment, but it’s worth making the most of your next dermatology appointment to figure out your best plan of action.
“Treatment-resistant alopecia areata can be incredibly frustrating. But dermatology is advancing quickly in this area, and if something didn’t work in the past that doesn’t mean there isn’t something that will help in the future,” Dr. Bowles says. “Every case of alopecia areata is unique, so it’s important to look at the whole picture to create a plan that gives each patient the best possible chance for regrowth and confidence again.”
Here are a few important things to remember before your next doctor’s visit so you can be on that path, too.
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