What is it?

Alopecia areata is an autoimmune skin disease that results in the loss of hair on the body because the body’s own immune system is attacking hair follicles. There are three types of alopecia areata:

Alopecia areata – skin loses hair in round sections of varying size
Alopecia areata totalis – complete loss of hair on the scalp alone
Alopecia areata universalis – loss of hair everywhere on the body

Symptoms?

With alopecia totalis and universalis you will notice the appearance of a small number of round hairless patches on the scalp, followed by total scalp hair loss. Some people may experience itching associated with their hair loss. It will typically take 6 months for total hair loss of the scalp.

Could this be what you have?

There are about 6.5 million people affected by one of the three varieties of alopecia areata. Alopecia areata affects children more than adults; however, the disease can affect people of all ages and races.

Treatment Options @ Pinnacle

Except in cases of extreme hair loss (alopecia universalis), hair often grows back in a matter of a few months with no medical intervention, however it is always a good idea to be seen by a medical professional.