What Really Works
Alopecia, a condition that causes hair loss, can be emotionally and physically challenging. It can range from small patches (alopecia areata) to more severe forms like alopecia totalis (loss of all scalp hair) or alopecia universalis (loss of all body hair). The good news is that there are a growing number of treatment options for alopecia, from new FDA-approved medications to classic therapies that help many people regain their hair and confidence.
Here’s a look at some of the most common and effective treatments, how they work and who they may be best for.
1. Litfulo (Ritlecitinib)
Litfulo is a groundbreaking FDA-approved treatment specifically for severe alopecia areata in people 12 years and older. It belongs to a class of drugs called JAK inhibitors (Janus kinase inhibitors), which work by calming the immune system. In people with alopecia areata, the immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles, causing hair loss. Litfulo helps block this response, allowing hair to regrow.
What makes Litfulo stand out is its success in clinical trials. Many patients saw significant hair regrowth after several months of treatment. It comes in pill form and is taken once daily, offering a convenient option for long-term management. As with any medication that affects the immune system, regular monitoring by a healthcare provider is important.
2. Topical Corticosteroids
Topical corticosteroids are anti-inflammatory creams or ointments commonly used for mild to moderate alopecia areata. By calming the immune system in the affected area, they help reduce inflammation around the hair follicle and encourage regrowth.
These are typically applied once or twice a day to bald patches. While they’re often effective for smaller areas of hair loss, results may take several weeks to appear. Side effects are usually minimal, especially when used under medical supervision.
3. Corticosteroid Injections
For people with more stubborn patches of alopecia areata, corticosteroid injections can be a powerful solution. These are administered directly into the bald areas—usually every 4 to 6 weeks—by a dermatologist. The injections work by reducing local inflammation, which helps the hair follicle recover and produce new hair.
This treatment is particularly effective for adults with isolated patches of hair loss and often leads to visible results within a couple of months. Some people may feel mild discomfort from the injections, but the benefits often outweigh the temporary sting.
4. Minoxidil (Rogaine)
Minoxidil is a widely available over-the-counter treatment best known for treating hereditary hair loss, but it can also help people with alopecia areata. It works by improving blood flow to the scalp and stimulating hair follicles to grow.
Minoxidil is applied directly to the scalp—usually twice daily—and is available in foam or liquid form. It may not work for everyone with alopecia, but some users experience gradual regrowth when used consistently. It’s a good option for people looking to add a supportive treatment to their routine.
5. Oral Corticosteroids
For more widespread or rapidly progressing cases of alopecia, doctors may prescribe oral corticosteroids. These medications help suppress the overall immune response and can promote regrowth in cases of severe alopecia areata, totalis, or universalis.
Because of potential side effects like weight gain, mood changes and increased blood pressure, oral steroids are usually used short-term. They're especially useful for jumpstarting hair regrowth during a flare-up.
6. Topical Immunotherapy
Topical immunotherapy is a treatment mainly used for more severe or treatment-resistant alopecia areata. In this therapy, a chemical such as diphencyprone (DPCP) is applied to the scalp to trigger a mild allergic reaction. This "distracts" the immune system from attacking hair follicles, allowing hair to grow back.
It may sound strange, but it’s effective for many people with persistent hair loss. This treatment requires regular applications, typically in a dermatologist’s office, and may take several months to show results.
7. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy
PRP therapy is a newer, non-surgical option that uses the patient’s own blood. After a small amount of blood is drawn, it’s processed to concentrate the platelets—cells rich in growth factors. These platelets are then injected into areas of hair loss to stimulate the follicles and promote natural regrowth.
PRP is often used for androgenetic alopecia but may also help some people with alopecia areata. While more research is needed, early results are promising for those who want a more natural approach.
8. Wigs, Hairpieces and Scalp Camouflage
While not a medical treatment, wigs and hairpieces offer immediate relief from the emotional impact of alopecia. Many people find comfort and confidence in using high-quality wigs or scalp makeup products while undergoing medical treatments.
These options can also be empowering for those who choose not to pursue or respond to other therapies. Support groups and styling professionals can help you find a solution that fits your lifestyle and preferences.
Final Thoughts
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution for alopecia, but the growing list of treatment options for alopecia means that hope is very much alive. Whether you’re just starting to lose hair or have been managing the condition for years, treatments like Litfulo, corticosteroids, minoxidil and PRP can help restore not only your hair but your confidence.
As always, talk to a dermatologist to figure out the best plan for your unique situation. With patience, the right treatment and a supportive care team, many people with alopecia see meaningful improvements.
Keep reading to learn about foods that can help with alopecia hair loss.