Doctors Note Logo

Back

Published on: 5/21/2025

What causes patchy hair loss and how can it be treated?

Patchy hair loss can be caused by a condition called alopecia areata, which is an autoimmune disease. Treatments include medications like corticosteroids and other therapies to help hair grow back.

answer background

Explanation

Alopecia areata is a condition that causes patchy hair loss. It occurs when the body's immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles, leading to hair falling out in small, round patches.

Causes

  • Autoimmune Reaction: The immune system attacks hair follicles.

Treatments

  1. Corticosteroids: These are medicines that help reduce inflammation and can be applied directly to the skin or injected.
  2. Topical Immunotherapy: This involves applying chemicals to the scalp to provoke an allergic reaction, which can help hair regrow.
  3. Minoxidil: A topical treatment that can help stimulate hair growth.

While there is no cure for alopecia areata, these treatments can help manage the condition and promote hair regrowth. It's important to discuss with a healthcare provider to find the best treatment plan.

Tell your friends about us.

We would love to help them too.

smily Shiba-inu looking

For First Time Users

What is Ubie’s Doctor’s Note?

We provide a database of explanations from real doctors on a range of medical topics. Get started by exploring our library of questions and topics you want to learn more about.

Learn more about symptoms

Hair loss

Not sure about the cause of your current symptoms?

AI Symptom Check

Try our AI-based symptom checker

With an easy 3-min questionnaire, you can get a free AI-powered report on possible causes


Tips to try:

  • Provide specific, detailed info about all symptoms you have.
  • Give accurate information about yourself including current conditions.
  • Answer all follow-up questions

Purpose and positioning of servicesUbie Doctor’s Note is a service for informational purposes. The provision of information by physicians, medical professionals, etc. is not a medical treatment. If medical treatment is required, please consult your doctor or medical institution. We strive to provide reliable and accurate information, but we do not guarantee the completeness of the content. If you find any errors in the information, please contact us.