Alopecia Areata – Causes, Symptoms & Valuable Tips
Circular hair loss (alopecia areata) is one of the most common forms of hair loss and can be very stressful for those affected. This makes it all the more important to understand the background and find out about possible therapies.
In this article, you will find out what can cause circular hair loss, how it manifests itself and which modern approaches can help you.
1. What is alopecia areata?
Medical definition
Alopecia Areata is an inflammatory autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks its own hair follicles.
Typical appearance
Round, clearly defined bald patches suddenly appear on the scalp or in the beard area. In severe cases, the hair loss can also spread over the entire body.
Differentiation from other forms
In contrast to genetic hair loss, the hair follicles are not permanently destroyed in alopecia areata. They remain intact and can be reactivated with successful therapy.
2. Alopecia Areata & Causes
Autoimmune reactions
In alopecia areata, the immune system mistakenly attacks the hair follicles and thus interrupts hair growth.
Mechanism
- Hair follicles are classified as “foreign”
- Inflammatory processes set in
- Hair growth stops abruptly
Genetic predisposition
Studies show that alopecia areata can run in families. A genetic predisposition significantly increases the risk.
Risk factors
- Familial clustering of autoimmune diseases
- Genetic disposition for misdirected immune reactions
Meaning
Genetics alone do not trigger the disease, but often work together with stress or other triggers
People with a hereditary predisposition have a higher risk of developing alopecia areata
Stress & psyche
Mental stress and constant stress are considered to be important triggers or intensifiers of alopecia areata. Many sufferers report that new bald patches often appear after periods of intense stress.
Typical triggers
- Work pressure and overload
- Private conflicts or grief
- Test anxiety or high performance requirements
- Chronic sleep disorders
Effects on hair growth
- Elevated cortisol levels upset the hormonal balance
- Impaired blood flow to the scalp weakens the supply to the hair follicles
- More hair enters the resting phase (telogen phase) → increased hair loss
Tips for reducing stress
- Social contacts & hobbies for more balance in everyday life
- Regular exercise (walks, endurance sports, yoga)
- Relaxation techniques such as meditation or breathing exercises
- Sufficient sleep (7-8 hours) for regeneration
Hormonal influences
An imbalance in the hormone balance can also increase the risk. Disorders of the thyroid gland or sex hormones in particular are suspected.
Concomitant diseases
Alopecia Areata often occurs in combination with other autoimmune diseases. These concomitant diseases can influence the course of the disease and should always be taken into account when making a diagnosis.
Hashimoto's thyroiditis
A chronic thyroid disease in which the immune system attacks the thyroid gland. Typical consequences: Hormonal imbalances, tiredness, weight fluctuations - and an increased risk of hair problems.
Allergies
Many of those affected also suffer from allergies (e.g. pollen, food, house dust). The constant activation of the immune system can increase inflammation in the body and thus promote hair loss.
Vitiligo (white spot disease)
Another autoimmune disease in which pigment cells in the skin are destroyed. Here too, the immune system is directed against the body's own structures - which illustrates the close connection to alopecia areata.
3. Symptoms of Alopecia Areata
Typical signs
- Suddenly appearing, circular bald patches on the scalp or in the beard
- Rapid progression without warning
Other side effects
- The hair roots remain intact, there are no scars - regeneration is possible
- In some cases, nail changes occur, e.g. grooves, indentations or small dents
4. Diagnosis from a doctor
Clinical examination
A dermatologist can usually make the diagnosis through a simple visual examination.
Hair root analysis & blood tests
- A hair analysis provides information about the growth stage of the hair.
- Blood tests help to detect autoimmune reactions, inflammatory markers or hormonal imbalances.
5. Therapeutic Approaches for Alopecia Areata
Preparations containing cortisone
- Effect: Suppress the immune response and have an anti-inflammatory effect
- Application: As a cream, lotion or injection directly into the affected areas
Immunomodulators (new drugs)
Modern active substances such as JAK inhibitors (e.g. baricitinib) have shown promising results in studies and can stimulate hair growth again. However, they are currently still being tested and require a prescription.
Natural active ingredients & gentle approaches
Plant extracts
- Rosemary oil → promotes blood circulation
- Caffeine → stimulates the hair roots
- Ginseng & zinc → strengthen the follicles
Food supplement
Biotin and vitamin D can have a supportive effect if there is a deficiency.
Stress management
Since stress is an important trigger, relaxation methods play a major role:
- Yoga, meditation, breathing exercises
- Walks & balance in everyday life
These measures can reduce relapses and stabilize the immune system.
6. Tips & Advice for Those Affected
- Psychological support: As visible hair loss is often stressful, psychological support can also be useful.
- Act early: The sooner the diagnosis is made, the better the chances of successful treatment.
- Be patient: Hair regrowth can take several months.
- Gentle styling: No aggressive chemicals or constant heat styling - this puts additional strain on the scalp.
- Scalp care: Regular massages and hair serums with gentle ingredients can promote microcirculation.
In conclusion: There is hope for Alopecia Areata
Circular hair loss is an autoimmune disease that can occur suddenly and can be stressful. Even if the exact cause is not always clear, there are numerous approaches to treatment - from medical therapies with cortisone or modern immunomodulators to natural active ingredients and stress management. As the hair follicles remain intact, the prognosis is often positive: with the right treatment, hair can grow back in many cases.
This is precisely where the Laduti Hair Growth Serum comes in: It combines carefully selected ingredients such as biotin, rosemary oil, caffeine, and ginseng, which are scientifically known to support hair health and strengthen the scalp – all without hormonal additives. This offers a gentle yet innovative way to strengthen the hair follicles and promote the natural balance of the scalp.
We also deliberately do not use aggressive active ingredients such as minoxidil, but combine plant-based ingredients with innovative complexes such as Anagain™ (from pea sprout extract) and Procapil™. Both substances have been scientifically studied and are associated with a promotion of hair follicle activity and improved hair anchoring.
This is how Laduti offers gentle but effective support for people who want to stimulate their hair growth in a natural way and create the basis for healthy hair in the long term. In combination with patience, stress reduction and a balanced diet, this can be an important building block on the way to stronger and fuller hair.
FAQ
Can circular hair loss disappear on its own?
Yes, in many cases the hair grows back after a few months to years - even without treatment. However, relapses are common.
Is circular hair loss hereditary?
Genetics play a role. Alopecia Areata occurs more frequently in many families, but there is no guarantee that it is hereditary.
Does a change in diet help with alopecia areata?
A healthy diet with sufficient zinc, biotin and vitamin D can have a positive effect on hair health, but is no substitute for medical treatment.
Can stress increase hair loss?
Yes, psychological stress is one of the most common triggers and can have a negative impact on the process.
Can circular hair loss be cured?
There is currently no definitive cure, but there are many effective treatment and care approaches that can promote hair growth.
