Blog Entry

Understanding Alopecia: Spreading Awareness This September

September marks Alopecia Awareness Month, a time dedicated to educating communities about a condition that affects both children and adults worldwide. At Clear Choice Dermatology, we want to help you understand what alopecia is, how it presents, and what options are available for those living with it.

What Is Alopecia?

Alopecia is an umbrella term for conditions that cause hair loss. While many people think of hair loss as something that only comes with age, alopecia can affect people of all ages and genders. It may appear suddenly or progress gradually, and it can involve the scalp, eyebrows, eyelashes, or even the entire body.

Types of Alopecia

There are several forms of alopecia, each with different patterns and causes:

• Alopecia areata – An autoimmune condition that causes the immune system to mistakenly attack hair follicles, leading to patchy hair loss.
• Androgenetic alopecia – Commonly known as male or female pattern baldness, this form is typically hereditary and more gradual.
• Scarring alopecia – A rarer type where inflammation damages hair follicles permanently, preventing regrowth.
• Telogen effluvium – Temporary hair shedding, often triggered by stress, illness, or hormonal changes.

Why Does Alopecia Happen?

Causes vary depending on the type, but genetics, autoimmune activity, hormones, and environmental triggers all play a role. For example, alopecia areata develops when the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own hair follicles. Stress, illness, or certain medications can also contribute to different forms of hair loss. It’s important to note that alopecia is not contagious—you cannot “catch” it or give it to someone else.

Living with Alopecia

Hair is often tied to identity and self-image, so hair loss can feel emotionally challenging. People living with alopecia may experience frustration, self-consciousness, or social anxiety. Raising awareness helps break down misconceptions and encourages compassion for those navigating visible hair loss.

Can Alopecia Be Treated?

While treatment depends on the type and severity, many treatments are available to slow hair loss or encourage regrowth:

• Topical treatments such as minoxidil (Rogaine®).
• Oral medications that target hormones or modulate the immune system.
• Corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation around hair follicles.
• Light therapy or laser treatments to stimulate hair follicles and promote regrowth.
• PRP (platelet-rich plasma) injections into the scalp to encourage hair growth.
• Microneedling to create tiny scalp punctures, boost blood flow, and enhance hair regrowth.
• Cosmetic solutions such as wigs, hairpieces, or scalp micropigmentation for aesthetic support.

Treatment success depends on the type of alopecia and individual factors. A dermatologist can help tailor a plan that works best for you.

Nutrafol: Supporting Hair Health from Within

At Clear Choice Dermatology, we also offer Nutrafol, a scientifically formulated nutraceutical designed to support hair growth from the inside out. Nutrafol targets the root causes of hair thinning, including stress, hormonal imbalances, poor nutrition, and inflammation. By addressing these underlying factors, Nutrafol helps strengthen hair follicles, improve hair density, and enhance overall hair health. Nutrafol is a supportive, natural supplement that works best as part of a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your type of hair loss. Our providers can help determine if it’s appropriate for your situation. 

If you’re interested in trying Nutrafol, you can explore and purchase it through our affiliate link here: Nutrafol at Clear Choice Dermatology.

Take Charge of Your Hair Health

Hair loss can be discouraging, but you don’t have to face it alone. Our team at Clear Choice Dermatology provides compassionate care, clear guidance, and a range of treatment options designed for your unique needs.

Schedule an appointment today at clearchoicederm.com to learn more about your options and take the first step toward healthier hair and skin.

Monday September 1, 2025