Alopecia totalis is a medical condition that triggers the complete loss of hair on the scalp. It is an advanced form of alopecia areata. Minor alopecia is an autoimmune disorder that causes hair loss in patches. In the case of alopecia totalis, the hair loss extends to the entire scalp, resulting in a bald appearance. The exact cause of alopecia totalis is not fully understood. Alopecia totalis can occur at any age but often starts during childhood or adolescence. Hair loss in this condition is usually permanent, and hair regrowth is primarily impossible without treatment. Today we shall see the various potential causes for complete or patchy hair loss:
Autoimmune Disorders: Alopecia totalis is often associated with an autoimmune disorder known as alopecia areata. In this condition, the body’s immune system mistakenly targets the hair follicles as foreign substances, leading to inflammation and subsequent hair loss. The exact cause of this autoimmune response is not known. We all know that autoimmune disorders arise from malfunctioning the immune system. It mistakenly attacks healthy cells and tissues instead of protecting the body against harmful substances. In the case of alopecia areata and its more severe form, alopecia totalis, the immune system targets the healthy hair follicles. When you see any symptoms of patchy hair loss, please get in touch with a dermatologist immediately.
Genetic Factors: Some individuals may have a genetic predisposition to alopecia totalis. Research says some genes can increase the likelihood of developing autoimmune-related hair loss conditions, including alopecia areata and its more severe form, alopecia totalis. Studies have shown that certain variations in genes related to immune function and hair follicle development may contribute to the development of alopecia totalis. However, the inheritance pattern of genetic alopecia totalis is complex and can vary among individuals and families. Suppose you notice unusual hair loss or changes in your hair pattern. In that case, seeking medical advice is advisable. Get an accurate diagnosis and find appropriate treatment options. If your ancestors have alopecia totalis, you should be very careful.
Stress And Trauma: Severe physical or emotional stress, trauma, or a significant life event can trigger hair loss. This condition is known as telogen effluvium, where many of your hair follicles go into the resting phase simultaneously, leading to excessive hair shedding and potential temporary hair loss. It could arise from stress, hormone changes, certain medications, or nutritional deficiencies. Whenever you are depressed or experience mental health issues, seek the help of a psychiatrist. Meditate daily, and spend time with nature, books, and good friends for a stress-free life. When you remove the underlying cause of telogen effluvium, the hair growth bounces back automatically.
Infections: Certain infections can cause hair loss. However, complete hair loss on the scalp through bacterial or viral infections is rare. Fungal infections, such as tinea capitis, can result in significant hair loss and may require medical treatment. Likewise, Seborrheic dermatitis is a chronic inflammatory condition that commonly affects the scalp, causing redness, scaling, and itching. While seborrheic dermatitis does not typically cause significant hair loss, aggressive scratching or picking at the scalp can lead to hair breakage or temporary loss. Certain bacterial infections can cause inflammation of the hair follicles, leading to a condition called folliculitis. Folliculitis can result in hair loss if the inflammation damages the hair follicles or leads to scarring. Viral infections such as herpes zoster (shingles) or herpes simplex (cold sores) can also affect the scalp and cause patchy hair loss.
Chemotherapy And Radiation: Cancer treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy can lead to temporary or permanent hair loss, including complete hair loss on the scalp. These treatments target rapidly dividing cells, including hair follicles, causing them to be damaged or destroyed. Chemotherapy-induced hair loss typically begins within a few weeks of starting treatment. The hair loss can be gradual or more sudden, and the hair may fall out entirely or become thin and brittle. In most cases, hair starts to regrow after the completion of chemotherapy. However, the texture and color of the new hair may differ temporarily. The extent and pattern of hair loss can vary depending on the specific chemotherapy drugs used, dosage, and treatment duration. Some chemotherapy regimens cause hair loss only on the scalp. In contrast, others may even lead to loss of body hair, including eyebrows, eyelashes, and pubic hair.
Trichotillomania: Trichotillomania is a psychological disorder where the patient has an irresistible urge to pull out one’s hair. Continuous hair pulling can damage the hair follicles and eventually lead to complete hair loss in the affected areas. Trichotillomania is an impulse control disorder often categorized under obsessive-compulsive and related disorders. Individuals with trichotillomania may experience tension or an increasing sense of relief or gratification when pulling out their hair. Various factors, including stress, anxiety, boredom, or unavoidable situations, can trigger the behavior. Hair pulling can occur from the scalp, eyebrows, eyelashes, or other body areas. To treat it, you need the help of both psychiatrist and a dermatologist. First, control the tendency to pull hair and then treat the hair loss area.
It is important to note that alopecia totalis can vary in onset, duration, and progression among individuals. Suppose you or someone you know is experiencing complete hair loss. In that case, we recommend consulting a dermatologist or trichologist to determine the cause of hair loss. You can start the hair care regimen after knowing about the potential treatment options, home remedies, and prevention measures. You can use lace wigs while you get treatment for your hair loss. They are safe and provide a natural hair look. Remember to use the hypoallergenic UOG lace wig glue and prevent further infections. Check out our other blog posts for vast information on lace wigs and lace wig glue.
