How long will it take for alopecia areata to fully recover once fuzz has started to grow?

Written by Huang Ling Juan
Dermatology
Updated on February 24, 2025
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Alopecia areata, once showing new fuzz, usually takes three to six months to return to normal. The appearance of fuzz indicates that the alopecia areata is in the recovery phase. In the early recovery stage, lighter-colored fuzz will grow in the area where hair was lost, and this fuzz will gradually turn into normal hair. During the active phase of alopecia areata, there will be noticeable hair loss, while in the dormant phase, the hair loss will stop. Three to four months after the dormant phase, most patients enter the recovery phase, reaching the stage where this small fuzz appears. Hence, the appearance of such fuzz signifies that the alopecia areata is nearing recovery, and new hair will grow during this phase. There are many causes of alopecia areata; it is important to avoid staying up late regularly.

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Written by Huang Ling Juan
Dermatology
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Does shaving your head benefit alopecia areata?

Shaving the head when suffering from alopecia areata can be beneficial as it allows for easier application of medications to the scalp. There are many causes for alopecia areata, which often relate to staying up late, poor rest, hormonal imbalances, excessive stress, and high pressure. Alopecia areata generally results from the localized death of hair follicles and can be triggered by irritation or injury to the scalp. It is advisable to visit the dermatology department of a reputable hospital to determine the specific cause and assess the severity of the condition. In cases of alopecia areata, treatment under medical supervision can involve taking oral medications like cysteine tablets and compound glycyrrhizin capsules, as well as applying topical treatments like compound siyadan hair tonic or minoxidil solution. (Medication should be used under the guidance of a doctor.)

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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 Huang Ling Juan
Dermatology
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What is the cause of itchy scalp with alopecia areata?

The occurrence of itchy alopecia areata scalp is primarily related to the use of certain medications. Frequent use of drugs to treat alopecia areata can lead to allergic reactions, which may also cause scalp itching. Additionally, in the early stages of alopecia areata recovery, hair growth requires a significant supply of nutrients, and rapid local blood circulation can also lead to localized scalp itching. The itchy scalp associated with alopecia areata can also be related to irregular lifestyle, long-term mental tension, frequent staying up late, and deficiencies in vitamins and trace elements, which can lead to endocrine disorders. The itching associated with alopecia areata might also result from not maintaining cleanliness and hygiene of the scalp, using shampoos or conditioners with strong irritants, frequent exposure to excessive ultraviolet rays, and using excessively hot water when washing hair.

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Written by Huang Ling Juan
Dermatology
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How long does the hair loss phase of alopecia areata usually last?

The shedding phase of alopecia areata generally lasts about three months. Alopecia areata refers to the sudden occurrence of patchy hair loss on the top of the head, usually caused by excessive mental stress, fatigue, and disorders of the immune system. Alopecia areata typically arises when various factors cause the hair follicles on the scalp to shift from the growth phase to the resting phase, resulting in the hair no longer growing and subsequently falling out extensively. The occurrence of alopecia areata is also somewhat related to genetics. If dieting leads to malnutrition, alopecia areata may also occur. The clinical manifestation of alopecia areata is the appearance of round or oval patches of hair loss on the top of the head. Some occur individually, while others may appear in multiples, varying in size and without any subjective symptoms. If alopecia areata occurs, it is advisable to seek diagnosis and treatment in the dermatology department of a standard hospital.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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Can ginger be used for alopecia areata?

Applying ginger to the localized skin of alopecia areata can stimulate hair follicle growth and improve local blood circulation, which has a certain effect in treating alopecia areata. However, it is generally only limited to patients with relatively mild symptoms, smaller areas of hair loss, or a shorter duration of the condition. If the duration of the actual alopecia areata is long, or the patch area is large, it is advisable to seek formal treatment at a regular medical institution. This condition also relates to personal diet and lifestyle habits. It's important to exercise regularly, strengthen immunity, avoid eating spicy and stimulating foods, and refrain from frequently perming or dyeing hair, or using aggressive styling products like hair gels or creams. Generally, as long as treatment is adhered to, it is possible to be completely cured.