Bald patches (alopecia)
Bald patches that appear suddenly can point to alopecia areata, a form of hair loss that calls for prompt attention. Do you recognise the following?
- Has a bald patch appeared fairly suddenly on your scalp?
- Is the patch growing larger within a short time?
- Does the skin on the bald patch feel different from the rest of your scalp?
- Have several bald patches appeared at the same time?
With sudden bald patches it is important to act quickly, because early guidance can increase the chance of recovery.
What is happening with bald patches?
Bald patches can have various backgrounds, each of which calls for a different approach.
Alopecia areata
An autoimmune reaction in which the body temporarily attacks its own hair follicles, resulting in round bald patches.
Scarring
With scarring alopecia the hair follicle is permanently damaged, so hair no longer grows back in that place.
Sudden bald patches
Quickly appearing, sharply defined patches that often become visible within a short time.
Spreading
In some people a bald patch expands or several patches appear at the same time.
When does acting quickly matter?
With bald patches, the moment of assessment often makes a difference to the possible treatment outcome.
Rapid growth of the patch
If a bald patch expands within a short time, a prompt assessment is advisable.
Several patches at once
This can point to a more active form of alopecia areata.
Suspected scarring
Where there is permanent damage to the hair follicle, time is an important factor.
Uncertainty about the cause
If you are unsure what is causing the patch, an assessment quickly provides clarity.
How we establish the cause
At Armeda Clinics you map out together with a specialist which of these factors plays a role in your case.
- Hair analysis The type of hair loss, the size of the bald patches and the condition of the scalp are mapped out.
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A personal conversation
Your complaints, medical background and lifestyle are discussed. - Blood values (if needed) If a nutritional deficiency is suspected, further testing may be advised.
- Tailored advice You receive a clear treatment plan, suited to the cause of your bald patches.
How is the cause of a bald patch determined?
During an assessment we look at whether there is alopecia areata, scarring or another cause, so that you know which next steps are appropriate.
What can you do about bald patches?
Depending on the cause and the stage of the bald patch, we propose a suitable programme.
Medical guidance
Personal advice and follow-up, focused on the type and stage of your bald patch.
Hair transplant
In the case of permanent bald patches, for example due to scarring, a hair transplant can offer a solution.
Hair transplant for women
An approach aimed specifically at bald patches and thinner areas in women.
What clients often ask us
In many people the hair grows back spontaneously, but this differs from situation to situation.
No, it is an autoimmune reaction and therefore not contagious.
With scarring alopecia the hair follicle is permanently damaged, so natural hair growth does not return.
Early guidance can increase the chance of recovery and help limit further spreading.
Stress can play a role in the onset or worsening of alopecia areata, although it is not the only cause.
Unsure about a bald patch on your scalp?
Schedule a no-obligation consultation at Armeda Clinics and have the cause assessed quickly.