Alopecia is an autoimmune disorder that causes hair loss. Hair falls out in small patches, which can be unnoticeable. There are no defined causes of alopecia areata, but treatment therapies help control the condition. Anyone can get alopecia regardless of age or gender. Loss of hair can be frustrating and affect your emotional and mental welfare. It would be best if you visited a reliable specialist for alopecia consultation & medical management in Lakewood Ranch to learn about the available treatment plans for your condition. The following are treatments for alopecia areata.
Topical immunotherapy
Topical immunotherapy involves applying chemicals directly to your scalp to cause an allergic reaction leading to stimulation of the immune system and aiding hair growth. Some of the chemicals used are diphencyprone and dinitrochlorobenzene. The hair regrows after about six months. Continued use of this treatment sustains hair regrowth. It would help if you used the medicine under your doctor’s prescription.
Topical minoxidil
Minoxidil is a topical treatment purchased over-the-counter. Depending on the strength, you can easily apply it once or twice a day. Minoxidil stimulates dormancy and helps hair growth by boosting blood flow to hair follicles. The treatment is affordable, making it easier for you to purchase.
Topical anthralin
You can use anthralin to treat mild alopecia areata. It encourages the immune system and hair growth by generating an irritant reaction. After applying anthralin directly on your scalp, you leave it for some time, then wash it off. The results of this treatment can be seen between two to three months. Ensure you follow your doctor’s prescription for its effectiveness
Corticosteroid injections
Corticosteroid injections work by reducing inflammation and modulating the immune system. You will get alopecia when the immune system attacks the body’s natural processes. Corticosteroids hinder these attacks. Injections are done at hair loss sites to stimulate regrowth. It is a popular method since it promotes new growth within four weeks. You have to repeat the treatment every one to two months to encourage hair regrowth.
Oral corticosteroids
Oral corticosteroids may be used where a patient dislikes injections. They work by lowering inflammation and suppressing the immune system leading to hair restoration. This treatment will work in cases of mild to severe hair loss. However, too much use of corticosteroids can lead to irreversible side effects.
Oral immuno-suppressants
Oral immuno-suppressants like methotrexate can be used. They work by blocking the response of the immune system. It would help if you had your doctor’s guidance as prolonged use can lead to dangerous side effects.
Light therapy
Light therapy is also called photo-chemotherapy. It is a radiation treatment that uses a combination of oral medication known as psoralens and ultraviolet light.
Natural treatments
You can use natural treatments to treat alopecia. Here are some. You can use vitamins such as zinc and biotin, scalp massage, micro-needling, low-level laser therapy, and onion juice which is rubbed onto the scalp. You can also use essential oils like rosemary and peppermint. An anti-inflammatory diet can help, involving a limiting diet of meat and vegetables.
Your doctor can help you choose a hair loss treatment that fits your condition. Schedule an appointment with Honest Hair Restoration to get a hair restoration treatment that best suits your unique treatment needs.