What patients notice
Common signs and descriptions
- Sudden smooth patch
- Short tapering hairs
- Eyebrow or beard involvement
- Nail changes in some people
Hair Loss & Scalp
Patchy Hair Loss (Alopecia Areata)
Smooth, well-defined patches of loss need medical assessment rather than cosmetic camouflage alone.
In plain language
What this term means.
Alopecia areata is an immune-mediated form of hair loss that often produces smooth round or oval patches and can affect scalp or facial hair.
Possible explanations
Different causes can look similar
- Immune activity around follicles
- Genetic susceptibility
- Other autoimmune associations
Professional assessment
How a consultation may clarify the concern.
History of onset, shedding pattern, medicines, nutrition, illness and family history
Scalp and hair-shaft examination, with tests considered only when the clinical picture indicates them
Treatment approach
Options follow the diagnosis
- Treat the identified cause and protect remaining hair
- Discuss medical, scalp-support or restoration pathways only after diagnosis
Avoid
What not to do
- Do not start multiple supplements or prescription products without assessment
- Avoid tight hairstyles, harsh traction and repeated aggressive scalp procedures
Care
Useful next steps
- Use gentle scalp care and record the timing of major health or medication changes
- Photograph the same areas in similar light monthly rather than checking repeatedly each day
Frequently asked
Questions to take into consultation.
A photograph can document appearance but may not show texture, depth, scalp findings or warning signs. A diagnosis and personalised plan may require history and in-person examination.
Not usually. The appropriate pathway depends on the cause, severity, skin or hair characteristics, previous treatment, medical suitability and the result you hope to achieve.
Related treatments and guides
Related concerns