Natural Remedies For Alopecia Areata

Hair loss can be very troubling, and many people find themselves looking for a quick solution. Although there are a wide variety of medical treatments available, you may be curious about other, more natural therapies. 

What causes alopecia areata?

Alopecia is the medical term used to describe hair loss. There are several different types, one of the most common being alopecia areata. This is an autoimmune condition causing patchy hair loss, which results from inflammation around hair follicles (the small dimples in skin out of which hair will grow). Alopecia is not uncommon, with estimates that it affects up to 2% of the population.  It usually affects the scalp, although individuals affected may also notice hair loss to eyebrows, facial hair and other body areas.^1,2,3,4

The exact reason for the immune response that causes inflammation to hair follicles seen in alopecia is not fully understood. Despite this uncertainty, there are suspected triggers, such as:⁵

• Stress
• Previous infections
• Genetic causes
• Vitamin deficiency

It is important to note that no firm links have been established, and it does appear to affect individuals at random rather than following a clear pattern.

Standard treatments vs. natural approaches

In addition to therapies made on the guidance of health professionals (including medications such as creams and tablets), some individuals may also benefit from more ‘natural’ interventions, such as stress reduction, dietary changes and the use of hair replacement accessories. In order to decide on the best option for you, ensure a full discussion with your healthcare provider. Natural treatment options 

Natural therapies are any treatment options that do not involve formally prescribed medications or surgical procedures. It must be noted even ‘natural’ therapies can sometimes have side effects, and you should always thoroughly research any management options that are not prescribed by healthcare teams.

Many well-respected specialists dispute whether natural methods are actually beneficial, however many will acknowledge there is a place for them in tandem with medical advice. Remember that there is no overnight cure for alopecia and that consistency and patience - with any intervention - is key.

Stress management and lifestyle changes

Stress is likely a common trigger for alopecia and finding ways to modify causes of stress can be a very effective management option. There is not always an easy fix, but you may find the following options helpful: ⁶

• Meditation
• Breathing Exercises
• Local support groups
• Apps, such as Headspace or Mindfulness
• Yoga
• Regular exercise
• Good sleep
• Good hydration
• Smoking cessation
• Making reasonable adjustments to your work (if possible)
• Respite if you are a parent or carer
• Using after-school or youth clubs to have some time off for parents
• Your local councils may offer respite services to unpaid carers
• Reduction in alcohol intake

These techniques not only reduce stress but can also help lower blood pressure, reduce the presence of stress hormones and improve your general mental wellbeing – which sets you up for a long-term healthy future!

Hair management options

Hair loss can be emotionally damaging, especially that which affects the scalp. Some individuals find that shaving off the remaining hair from an area makes living with alopecia easier. Other options include using dye to lighten hair (making patches less noticeable on fairer skin types), fitting hair extensions or weaves to cover areas of concern, and even using hairpieces that cover the entire scalp.

 Hair protects our scalps from damaging UV light on sunny days, so make sure to cover up with a hat, or use sunscreen on any exposed areas of skin. Hair can also act as an early warning when going through doors or under low ceilings – make sure to be extra careful not to bang your head!

The role of diet and nutrition

Anti-inflammatory diet for autoimmune conditions

Certain food groups may help with reducing inflammation across the whole body and may be useful in managing cases of mild alopecia. Although robust research is lacking, the following groups appear to play a role in hair loss: ⁷

In severe cases of alopecia, such as alopecia totalis or alopecia universalis, dietary changes alone are unlikely to be of benefit.⁸

Vitamins and minerals for hair health

Vitamins and minerals are chemical compounds that our bodies use for essential functions. Running low on these can be difficult to spot, but it is worth getting this investigated, as in some cases alopecia can be worsened by vitamin deficiency. Ensuring your levels are topped up can help. Vital vitamins and minerals to look after include:

• Vitamin D– commonly found in meat and animal products, this is important to control your immune system and reduce inflammation
• Biotin– a vitamin important for hair growth, low levels can lead to hair loss
• Zinc – encourages follicles to grow hair, and lower levels are associated with greater areas of hair loss
• Iron- deficiency has been linked to hair loss, even if you are not showing symptoms of anaemia^9,10,11,12

Most vitamin deficiencies can be corrected with over-the-counter supplements, although you should always consult your healthcare provider before taking these.

Herbal teas and supplements

General good hydration can help lower stress levels and improve blood flow to the scalp, which encourages hair growth, to improve the symptoms of alopecia. Recommended supplements include: ¹³

• Saw palmetto
• Pumpkin
• Red clover
• Ginseng tea
• Ginger tea

Essential oils and topical treatments

A topical treatment simply refers to a cream, ointment, gel or oil that can be applied to the skin. This is typically rubbed into the affected area for up to two minutes, then is removed with a warm towel. This should only be performed by a trained professional, as improper use of these substances can cause damage to skin.

Common topical treatments that can be used include:

• Various herbal oils such as rosemary, lavender and peppermint – improve hair density, reducing stress-related inflammation, and stimulating hair growth by enhancing blood flow
• Aloe plant groups (including aloe vera and ferox) - hydrate and soothe the scalp
• Onion juice - a source of sulphur, a key component of hair ^14,15,16

Certain health practitioners suggest that these can improve circulation and reduce inflammation in alopecia, which stimulates hair follicles and as such promotes hair growth. However, in reality the data is mixed and it is unclear which oil, if any, can actually stimulate hair growth. The principal benefit appears to be in managing the psychological changes in mood that can result from hair loss, as some aromatherapy treatments can improve mood and anxiety. 

Alternative therapies

Acupuncture 

Acupuncture is a technique of applying pressure to specific parts of the body with needles. Although controversial in medical spheres, some practitioners believe it can reduce inflammation. In recent times, it appears that acupuncture may offer a non-pharmaceutical alternative to promoting hair regrowth, although therapy can be expensive, it does not always work, and does involve lots of needles – something to keep in mind if one is bothered by sharps or scratches. ¹⁷

Laser and light therapy

The role of laser and light-based therapies may be beneficial in preventing the recurrence of alopecia, although the more robust evidence suggests that this is only the case when used alongside traditional medical therapies such as minoxidil. The use of low-level laser therapy, or LLLT (exposure 2-3 times each week to low-intensity light, either as a light cap or through a torch operated by a practitioner) is controversial amongst clinicians; some avoid its use altogether, however, some trials have shown a potential benefit to this. LLLT should not be performed if you are using any medications that make the skin sensitive to light, as this can make the skin more susceptible to damage.^18,19

Scalp massage

This is not likely to be of direct benefit to hair regrowth, although massage in general can help reduce stress levels.

Support for individuals with alopecia

Most countries will have support networks and charities with a focus on individuals with hair loss, and can offer emotional support, as well as practical advice around hair supplements if required.

Further support is available from:

Alopecia UK (United Kingdom)

National Alopecia Areata Foundation  (United States of America)

Australia Alopecia Areata Foundation (Australia)

Summary

Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition that causes patchy hair loss, typically on the scalp but can affect hair on any part of the body. There are many treatment options available for this including medications and natural therapies, although it is important to remember resolution can take time whichever treatment route you take. Many natural remedies can be used alongside traditional medications, including stress-relieving tools, dietary changes, topical treatments including essential oils, acupuncture and light therapy. Make the decision on what is best for you in conjunction with your healthcare provider, and make sure you fully research complementary therapies before use.