How Californians deal with Alopecia

FRESNO, Calif. – An estimated two percent of Californians suffer from hair loss, known medically as alopecia.

Alopecia is a dermatological disorder that can result in hair thinning, bald spots, and complete balding.

It affects women and men equally but is higher in people older than 40 years old. Many people first begin to notice symptoms of alopecia when their hair begins to weaken and thin.

“It can be devastating to women and men who experience it,” said Araceli Beltran, office manager at Rao Dermatology.” One day you have your hair and the next it’s falling off without explanation.”

Luckily, there are many forms of treatment for the condition, each tailored to the individual.

“Treatments can range from injections to topicals to oral medication,” said Alexis Moreno, an assistant Nurse at a local dermatology clinic. “one is PRP, which is actually where we take the plasma from your blood and spin it, we then reinject it into your scalp.”

Dermatology clinics specialize in treating the disorder. Some other treatments include hair transplants, prescribed steroids, and immunotherapies.

There are also many home remedies that those affected claim to help battle the effects of alopecia.

“A popular home remedy is rosemary water and oil for the scalp,” said Alexis, “patients claim that their hair loss lessened when using the oil.”

If you or anyone you know is showing early signs of alopecia, contact your local dermatology clinic to receive the appropriate treatment needed to protect your hair.