If you have alopecia universalis, you will have no hair on your scalp and your body. This includes your eyelashes, eyebrows, and any other facial or body hair. You may also have nails that are thin and brittle. Alopecia universalis is an autoimmune disorder. This means that your immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells in your body. In the case of alopecia universalis, the cells attacked are the ones that make hair.
Most people with alopecia universalis start to lose their hair in their early twenties. For some, hair loss may happen quickly, over a period of weeks or months. For others, it may happen slowly, over a period of years. Hair loss may be complete, or you may still have some hair left on your scalp or body.
There is no cure for alopecia universalis, but treatments are available to help improve the appearance of your hair and nails. If you have alopecia universalis, you should see a dermatologist for treatment. Treatment may include:
- Corticosteroids: These are drugs that can help reduce inflammation. They can be taken as pills, injections, or topicals (creams or ointments that are applied to the skin).
- Minoxidil: This is a topical medication that is applied to the scalp. It helps to stimulate hair growth.
- Anthralin: This is a topical cream or ointment that is applied to the scalp. It helps to stimulate hair growth and can also help reduce inflammation.
- If you have suddenly lost all the hair on your scalp and body, including your eyebrows and eyelashes.
- If you have a family member with the condition.
- If you have other autoimmune diseases such as vitiligo, lupus, or thyroid disease.
If you think you might have alopecia universalis, it's important to see a doctor for a diagnosis. There is no cure for the condition, but treatment can help slow down the hair loss and improve your appearance.
There is no cure for alopecia universalis, but treatments are available that can help improve the appearance of the hair and nails. These include topical treatments, such as corticosteroid creams and lotions, and oral medications, such as finasteride. In some cases, wigs and hairpieces may be used to cover up the hair loss.
If you think you may have alopecia universalis, it is important to see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment. Early diagnosis and treatment may help improve the outlook for this condition.