Alopecia areata: Autoimmune hair loss disorder explained with treatment options

Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disease that can cause rapid hair loss on the scalp and body. The condition gained renewed public attention after the mother of Brazilian singer Lucas Lucco disclosed she is experiencing a new flare while under treatment.

Dermatologist Marcela Vidal explained that the immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles, leading to patches that can expand into total scalp loss. Triggers may include emotional stress, viral infections, flu, or even vaccinations. Treatment focuses on suppressing the immune response, using corticosteroids, other immunosuppressive drugs, and newer Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors. Continuous therapy is important because the disease often recurs, impacting patients' self‑esteem, especially among women.