Alopecia Areata Treatment in Bridgewater NJ
Expert care for patchy hair loss caused by autoimmune conditions. PS Dermatology & Surgery provides specialized treatments to stimulate regrowth and comprehensive support to help you manage alopecia areata with confidence while your hair recovers.
👨⚕️ Double Board Certified in Dermatology and Mohs Surgery
🎓 Fellowship Trained in Mohs Surgery
What is Alopecia areata?
Alopecia areata is the name given to describe a type of hair loss (‘alopecia’) which is limited to specific patches of skin (‘areata’). Although it can occur anywhere on the body, it most commonly arises on the scalp and face. It’s caused when the immune system mistakenly attacks random groups of hair follicles.
It’s important to understand that alopecia areata is neither caused by an infection nor is it contagious. The reason it occurs is unknown. Some patients will report being under significant stress at the time of the breakout, but many others report no change in stress or anxiety levels. Occasionally multiple family members will suffer from alopecia areata, so genetics may play a role as well.
How do you treat this condition?
The good news is that, in the vast majority of cases, the hair loss caused by alopecia areata is temporary. For most, regrowth will occur within a matter of several months even if no treatment is performed.
Although most patches of hair loss from alopecia areata will resolve on their own, some patients request treatment in hopes of decreasing recovery time. The most common of these treatments is to administer cortisone shots. It’s a fairly effective approach, though it does require a number of small injections within the hair loss sites every 4-6 weeks. A number of topical creams and gels are also available. While topical medications can be applied painlessly (no injections required), they generally don’t work quite as rapidly.
Regardless of whether treatment is initiated or the hair is allowed to regrow naturally, patients should also understand that alopecia areata may occur intermittently throughout one’s lifetime. As previously mentioned, stress is sometimes blamed as a trigger though usually no identifiable cause is ever found. Luckily, many patients experience just one episode which resolves on its own, without treatment, within a matter of months.
Ready to Support Your Hair's Natural Recovery?
While alopecia areata often resolves on its own, you don't have to wait and worry alone. Our dermatology specialists provide expert guidance, proven treatments to accelerate regrowth, and the emotional support you need during your hair restoration journey.
Frequently Asked Questions About Alopecia Areata Treatment
Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition that causes sudden, patchy hair loss on the scalp, face, or other areas of the body. It develops when the immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles, disrupting the normal hair growth cycle and leading to hair falling out in small, round patches.
Alopecia areata differs from other types of hair loss because it is an autoimmune condition that causes sudden, patchy hair loss, rather than the gradual thinning or receding seen in common hair loss types like male or female pattern baldness. Unlike hair loss from stress, medications, or hormonal changes, alopecia areata can affect any hair-bearing area and may sometimes cause complete hair loss in affected regions.
Dr. Patel offers personalized treatment options for alopecia areata to help reduce hair loss and promote regrowth, tailored to the severity and location of the condition.
Topical corticosteroids to calm inflammation and stimulate hair regrowth in affected areas
- Topical Minoxidil to help hair growth in general
Intralesional steroid injections directly into the bald patches for faster and targeted results
Oral medications such JAK inhibitors, +/- Minoxidil +/- Finesteride in more extensive or resistant cases to modulate the immune system and increase hair growth in general
Supportive care and monitoring to track progress and adjust treatment plans as needed
Dr. Patel creates a customized plan to maximize hair regrowth while minimizing side effects
