hair-loss
Alopecia Areata: What It Is and How It's Treated
Last reviewed: May 2026 · Haute MD Editorial Team
Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition in which the immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles, causing sudden, patchy hair loss — typically in round or oval patches on the scalp, though it can affect eyebrows, eyelashes, and body hair. It affects approximately 2% of the population at some point in their lifetime. Unlike genetic hair loss, alopecia areata does not destroy the follicle — regrowth is possible, and in many cases hair returns spontaneously. Treatment aims to suppress the immune response and stimulate regrowth.
Types of alopecia areata
Patchy alopecia areata involves one or more localized patches of hair loss — the most common form and the most likely to spontaneously resolve. Alopecia totalis involves complete loss of all scalp hair. Alopecia universalis involves complete loss of all body hair including eyebrows and eyelashes. Ophiasis pattern affects the lower and lateral scalp in a band pattern and is more treatment-resistant. Diffuse alopecia areata causes overall thinning across the scalp rather than distinct patches.
Treatment options
Corticosteroid injections (intralesional triamcinolone) are the first-line treatment for patchy alopecia areata — injected directly into the patch every 4-6 weeks. Topical corticosteroids and minoxidil can support regrowth. Contact immunotherapy (topical DPCP or SADBE) is used for extensive patchy disease. JAK inhibitors — baricitinib (Olumiant) and ritlecitinib (Litfulo) — are now FDA-approved specifically for severe alopecia areata, representing the first systemic treatments specifically approved for this condition.
The role of stress and triggers
Alopecia areata has a complex relationship with stress. Physical stress (illness, surgery) and emotional stress can trigger or worsen flares in people with a genetic predisposition. However, alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition — not caused by stress alone. Managing stress through evidence-based approaches (exercise, sleep, therapy) supports overall health but does not reliably prevent or reverse alopecia areata flares.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my alopecia areata hair grow back?
In many cases, yes. Approximately 80% of people with limited patchy alopecia areata see spontaneous regrowth within one year, though recurrence is common. More extensive forms (totalis, universalis) have lower spontaneous regrowth rates. The follicle is not destroyed in alopecia areata, so regrowth potential is preserved.
What are JAK inhibitors for alopecia areata?
JAK inhibitors are a class of targeted oral immunosuppressants. Baricitinib (Olumiant) and ritlecitinib (Litfulo) are FDA-approved for severe alopecia areata. Clinical trials showed significant regrowth in patients with long-standing severe disease. They require monitoring for immune suppression-related side effects.
Is alopecia areata contagious?
No. Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition — the immune system attacking the body's own hair follicles. It is not contagious and cannot be transmitted by contact.
Does alopecia areata affect hair permanently?
In most cases, the follicle is preserved even during active loss — it is "silenced" by the immune attack but not destroyed. This means regrowth is possible even after years of hair loss. Only in very long-standing cases does the follicle begin to lose regrowth potential.
Get Help Now
Speak with a Haute MD Dermatology physician
Dr. Daniel Scott Karempelis
Dermatologist
Dermatology · Atlanta, Georgia, GA
View Profile
Dr. Bertha Baum
Board-Certified Dermatologist
Dermatology · Aventura, FL
View Profile
Dr. Victoria Cirillo-Hyland
Dermatologist
Dermatology · Bryn Mawr, PA
View ProfileAre you a Dermatology physician?
Join Haute MD Network and have your profile featured alongside these answers.
Apply for the NetworkRelated Guides
Guide · HAIR-LOSS
What Causes Hair Loss?
Hair loss is most commonly caused by genetics, hormonal changes, nutritional deficiencies, or medical conditions. Learn the most common causes and what to do about each.
Read GuideGuide · HAIR-LOSS
Female Hair Loss: Causes, Types, and Treatment Options
Female hair loss is most commonly caused by genetics, hormonal changes, or nutritional deficiencies. Learn the differences and what treatments are most effective for women.
Read GuideGuide · HAIR-LOSS
When to See a Doctor for Hair Loss
See a dermatologist when hair loss is sudden, diffuse, accompanied by scalp symptoms, or not responding to OTC treatments. Learn what to expect at your first visit.
Read Guide