What vitamins are needed for alopecia areata?

Written by Huang Ling Juan
Dermatology
Updated on November 23, 2024
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For alopecia areata, supplementing with Vitamin B and calcium pantothenate can aid in hair regrowth. However, alopecia areata is not solely caused by vitamin deficiency; it is largely related to genetics and psychological factors. Stress, anxiety, depression, frequent late nights, insomnia, and poor rest can contribute to this condition. Immune factors can also lead to alopecia areata. In cases of alopecia areata, besides daily oral vitamin supplements, if the condition is severe, it is advisable to seek treatment under the guidance of a physician. This may include treatment based on Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) diagnostics, or taking Chinese patent medicine such as "Yan Xie Sheng Fa" capsules and "Qi Bao Mei Ran" pills, which nourish the blood and promote hair growth. Additionally, integrating Western medicines like L-cysteine tablets and compound glycyrrhizin capsules can also be helpful.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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How long does it generally take for hair to regrow from alopecia areata?

The causes of alopecia areata are numerous, including reduced immunity, long-term consumption of spicy and irritating foods, frequent anxiety and stress, poor mood, or prolonged lack of nutrition. For milder cases of alopecia areata, hair can usually regrow within 1 to 3 months through self-adjustment of diet and lifestyle habits, along with increased exercise. However, for more severe cases, where hair loss covers a larger area, in addition to standard medical treatments, enhancing exercise, strengthening immunity, consuming more vegetables and fruits, and diversifying the diet are recommended. Typically, one treatment cycle lasts at least 3 months, and for severe symptoms, treatment may be needed for half a year or even longer. Persistence is crucial in managing this condition.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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The differences between alopecia areata, alopecia totalis, and androgenetic alopecia

Alopecia areata generally occurs only on the scalp with patchy hair loss, usually mild, affecting just a few patches. Total alopecia is an extension of alopecia areata, where hair loss progresses to complete baldness. Universal alopecia is more severe, involving not only complete hair loss on the scalp but also potential loss of eyebrows, armpit hair, pubic hair, and even all body hair. These three conditions represent a progressive worsening, with alopecia areata being the mildest and universal alopecia being the most severe. The treatment plans for these conditions are roughly the same, but the duration varies; long-term persistence is necessary, along with proper medication from a dermatology department in a reputable hospital.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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Which department should I go to for alopecia areata?

Alopecia areata is characterized by patchy hair loss on the scalp. The causes of this condition are complex, generally associated with dietary and lifestyle habits, or reduced immunity, and in some cases, it may also involve genetic predisposition. Once diagnosed, treatment should be sought at a dermatology department of a formal medical institution. An initial examination of the hair follicles in the affected area can reveal whether there is follicle atrophy or necrosis. Treatment often involves a combination of oral and topical medications, and localized medication occlusion therapy can also be employed. The more treatment methods utilized, the higher the likelihood of cure. It is advisable to avoid spicy and irritating foods, refrain from staying up late, and avoid stress and anxiety. Strengthening exercise and enhancing immunity can also improve the cure rate.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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What should be paid attention to in daily life for alopecia areata?

Alopecia areata has many causes and complex contributing factors, and each person's triggering elements differ. Besides seeking treatment from qualified medical institutions, it is crucial to avoid spicy and stimulating foods, overly salty or strongly flavored foods, as well as to refrain from staying up late, feeling anxious, stressed, or upset. It is essential to enhance physical exercise to boost immunity and to avoid using irritating hair products such as gels or conditioners, or frequently perming or dyeing the hair, as these do not aid in treatment. Another important aspect is the need for long-term and persistent treatment because the effects of treatment for this condition are very slow to manifest. A single treatment cycle requires at least three months, but with long-term commitment, it is entirely possible to achieve a complete cure.

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Is rubbing ginger useful for alopecia areata?

Alopecia areata is commonly treated by applying raw ginger topically, which has a certain effect. Rubbing ginger juice on the affected scalp area can stimulate hair follicles and improve local blood circulation, offering some therapeutic benefits for alopecia areata. However, this is generally only used for mild symptoms or cases that have just developed. If the alopecia areata has been present for a long time or if long-term medication has been ineffective, the application of ginger tends to be minimally effective. If the symptoms are severe, it is advisable to seek formal treatment at a dermatology department of a regular hospital. Adjusting one's diet and lifestyle habits is important; avoid spicy and irritating foods, and do not consume overly salty or highly flavored foods. Strengthening exercise, avoiding staying up late, and preventing anxiety and stress are also recommended.