What treatments are available for alopecia areata?
At present there is no cure for alopecia areata. However, many of the treatments for alopecia areata are extremely effective. Be sure to see a dermatologist who specializes in hair loss. I can't emphasize enough the importance of getting connected with treatments that have good evidence and staying clear of those that don't.
It can sometimes be difficult for patients to navigate through all the marketing and hype that surrounds hair loss treatments.
Although there are no FDA approved treatments for alopecia areata there are over a dozen off label treatments that can help. Be sure to see a dermatologist who has experience with many many patients with alopecia areata. Alopecia areata can be challenging to treat and is unpredictable.
Treatments for alopecia areata include:
- steroid injections
- topical steroids
- minoxidil
- anthralin
- squaric acid
- diphencyprone
- prednisone
- methotrexate
- sulfasalazine
- cyclosporine
- azathioprine
- tofacitinib
- essential oils like rosemary, thyme and lavender
- simvastatin and ezetimbe
This article was written by Dr. Jeff Donovan, a Canadian and US board certified dermatologist specializing exclusively in hair loss.