Types of Alopecia

Alopecia Areata is an autoimmune condition that causes hair to fall out in circular patches. This condition commonly develops when the body’s immune system mistakenly views the hair follicles as an enemy. These hair loss patches can occur not only on the scalp but also on the face or on other areas of the body that grow hair. With early diagnoses and the right hair fall treatment, alopecia can be managed better.

The chances of being affected with alopecia areata increase if you have asthma, anemia, seasonal allergies, vitiligo, or thyroid problems. Similarly, you are more likely to be affected with hair problems due to a family history of hair loss. Also, other lifestyle factors such as stress or diet can further trigger hair loss.

Also read: Factors responsible for causing alopecia areata

Types of Alopecia

There are different types of alopecia, ranging from mild to severe hair loss. Conditions such as cicatricial alopecia can leave scars on the surface of the scalp making it a difficult condition to reverse. In contrast, postpartum alopecia is more likely to be treated in few months. Alopecia can be broadly classified into:

1. Alopecia areata (patchy hair loss) - Loss of hair in one or more coin-sized patches on the scalp or other areas of the body. This type of alopecia can also lead to alopecia totalis (complete hair loss across the entire scalp) or alopecia Universalis (complete hair loss across the entire body.)
2. Diffuse alopecia areata - Sudden or unexpected hair thinning all over the scalp. Rather than hair loss in patches, this type of alopecia causes thinning of hair which can make diagnosis difficult. It can often be mistaken for telogen effluvium or male or female pattern baldness.
3. Traction alopecia - This is characterized by a receding hairline or loss of hair around the temple area. Keeping your hair in braids or tight hairstyles for a long period of time can cause traction alopecia. If not addressed the traction can cause permanent damage to the hairline.