Understanding Alopecia: Types, Causes, Myths and Facts
What alopecia is, the forms it takes, the myths worth letting go of, and how we support you through NHS and private appointments.
What is alopecia?
Alopecia is the medical term for hair loss. The most common autoimmune form is alopecia areata, where the immune system mistakenly targets the hair follicles. Hair falls out, often in small round patches, but the follicles themselves are not destroyed.
Apart from the loss of hair, alopecia areata doesn't cause headaches, irritation or other symptoms. People with the condition are otherwise healthy.
Types of alopecia areata
Alopecia areata can look very different from one person to the next. Most commonly it remains patchy.
Who it affects
Alopecia areata affects men and women of every ethnic background. It can begin in childhood, in your teens or later in life, and it is more common in people who have a family member with the condition.
Beyond the physical changes, navigating hair loss can affect confidence and wellbeing. You don't have to go through it alone.
Myths vs facts
