Circular hair loss in men: causes and treatment
Circular hair loss, medically known as alopecia areata, is a common form of hair loss that particularly affects men. It is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the hair follicles, resulting in noticeable, round bald patches on the head. In this article we look at the causes, symptoms and treatment options for patchy hair loss in men.
What is circular hair loss?
Circular hair loss occurs when the immune system mistakenly identifies hair follicles as foreign and attacks them. This causes hair loss in round or oval areas, primarily on the scalp, but can also affect other hairy areas of the body.
Causes of circular hair loss
The exact cause of alopecia areata is unknown, but genetic factors and environmental triggers are thought to play a role. Stress is often discussed as a trigger for the onset of the disease, although research in this area is not yet conclusive.
Symptoms
The main characteristic of circular hair loss is one or more bald, round spots on the scalp. The affected areas may appear suddenly and spread quickly. In some cases, hair may grow back in these areas only to fall out again elsewhere.
Treatment options
There are various treatment methods that vary depending on the severity of the disease:
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Topical immunotherapy: Use of chemicals that trigger an allergic reaction and stimulate the immune system to regrow hair follicles.
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Corticosteroid creams: Apply directly to affected areas to reduce inflammation.
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Light therapy: Using UV light to treat affected skin areas.
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Immunomodulating drugs: In severe cases, medications that affect the immune system may be prescribed.
Conclusion
Circular hair loss can be a distressing experience, but there are effective treatment options. It is important to consult a dermatologist at the first signs to receive appropriate treatment and have the best chance of hair regrowth.
