Alopecia Universalis

Alopecia or hair loss has many causes and can occur on any part of the body but is most noticeable on the scalp. Hair loss may be temporary or permanent, and may occur in patches or all over the scalp.

Treatment for Alopecia Universalis

If there is an obvious cause for hair loss then treatment may help, particularly in the cases of A naemia and thyroid abnormalities. Treatment for stress and anxiety may help those with patchy alopecia or those who pull their hair out.

The only medicines known to work are steroids, which cannot be taken long term because of side-effects, and the substance minoxidil, which is expensive and only works while being used.

Finesteride (a medicine used in men with enlarged prostate glands) is effective in male pattern baldness but is obviously unsuitable for women.

Most men with this type of baldness accept it and it is currently fashionable to have closely shaven heads, so it is not the disaster it once was.

In women with severe hair loss, the only answer may be a wig.

If fungal infection is the cause of baldness then three months of anti-fungal tablets will almost certainly cure the condition.

Androgenetic Alopecia