Alopecia Barbae is also called baldness. This is the exceedingly recognized ailment encountered by many today. The victims of this disorder belong to both genders. However, research reveals that the causative agents of Alopecia Barbae are responsible for the apparently different effects too in men and women.

Baldness is widespread across the globe, victimizing 50% of males and a similar percentage of females above the age of 40 years. However, in this group of females, 13% of premenopausal patients express only slight signs of the disease. Nonetheless, the chances of falling prey to Alopecia Barbae increases after menopause that 75% women over the age of 65 years of age get affected by this problem. Before reaching the age of 40 years, the sufferers bear signs of Alopecia Barbae, and some depict this even before they turn 30. 

Alopecia is a psychological torment for the sufferers. Hair loss allows the head to be exposed to the UV rays, giving rise in actinic infliction. Cardiac ailments could be accelerated by Alopecia in males, and increase in mild prostatic hypertrophy could be associated with this problem too. If the ongoing research studies evidence that the above relations are valid, then the clinical implications with Alopecia would increase too.

White males are the most affected by baldness in terms of frequency and severity while the second most affected are Asians and African Americans. The least affected are Native Americans and Eskimos.

Onset of the Ailment

Alopecia Barbae begins slowly. In men, it starts with hair loss in the temporal region which reshapes the posterior hairline. Then, it develops with the usual anterior and apex hair loss. While in case of women, it begins with scattered hair loss in the crown. The temporal hair loss is similar to men, but generally, females retain their anterior hairline.

Physical Changes

The sufferers of both genders experience the transition from healthy, pigmented terminal hair to weak, short and scattered hair. The end result is stunted, flimsy, non-pigmented hair in the affected areas. With time, the anagen step decreases while the telogen part is unaffected. It gives rise to the hair fall among the victims. Though it provides a generalized picture, the differences in the development of ailment always persist among different individuals. In case of females, usually, the patch of hair loss cannot be specified. Generally they lose hair in all areas over the crown. The core difference is that the anterior hairline is safe in case of females while that is lost right at the onset of the problem in case of males.

Research Findings

Androgenetic Alopecia is a hereditary disease, which is quite capable of expressing itself right at the startup. To cure this abnormality, Androgen is essentially required. The progress of this ailment could be controlled if the post pubertal men are castrated. The recent experiments on immuno-deficient mice depicted that the follicle cells from balding areas are capable of growing terminal hair. And this discovery promises a progress in the reversal of the affliction.

The research showed that the hedgehog family of intercellular signaling proteins is capable of supporting the transition from the telogen stage to the anagen of the hair cycle. However, the promises of the researches in this arena still remain a moot question as of today!

Alopecia areata is a disease whereby the sufferer loses his or her and bald patches appear on the head due to unmanageable hair loss. It would not be inappropriate to say that the patient ‘mysteriously’ loses the hair. It’s valid because the researchers have been trying to work out the link between the outbreaks of this disease with its possible foundation. Studies carried out by scientists are still unable to divulge the alopecia areata causes.

Despite the absence of any concrete evidence regarding the alopecia areata causes, certain hypotheses are nonetheless present. The research is being conducted for the acceptance or rejection of these tentative statements. However, there are few components discovered that provide a supposed relationship between the disease and its causes.
Genetic aspects are considered to be quite significant in this regard. It is suggested that there could be hereditary link for causation of alopecia areata. It is not confirmed that how or which specific genetic code triggers this situation. Nonetheless, it has been monitored that there is a greater rate of alopecia areata recurrence in case of family history with this disease. Such category of patients is also more vulnerable to a severe form of alopecia areata too.

While heredity is a possible determinant for the basis of alopecia areata, there are facts supporting the role of anomalous immune system. This irregularity culminates into a condition called autoimmunity. It means that the chemical substances named cytokines are released by the immune system and the resistance of the immune system increases abnormally. Consequently, the defense cells of body assault certain tissues. In case of alopecia areata, the body’s personal immune system lashes out on the hair follicles and interrupts the regular hair growth. It stimulates the hair loss in a patient from head and other parts of body in form of patches. The biopsy results of the bald scalp shows the presence of immune components that are normally not present in case of a healthy person. The big question mark in this case is that it is not yet figured out what makes immune cells to work this way. The discovery of autoimmunity mechanism is so far the greatest breakthrough in finding out alopecia areata causes.

The other autoimmune diseases include vitiligo, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, allergic reactions, thyroid disorder etc. Reportedly, the patients suffering from these health problems are known to be more prone towards having alopecia areata. Even when there is not solid proof for this notion, the trend reveals that people with the family history of autoimmune disorders are relatively more at risk.

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Alopecia is a widespread ailment that triggers hair loss. We commonly know it as baldness. When this progresses, your hair becomes thinner and visible patches of scalp start appearing. At this stage, you are just desperate to adopt the most effective and powerful measures that could help you get rid of the problem. Unfortunately, the available options are not safe enough for you to consider. Most of these techniques are associated with risk during treatment. Also, several complications are involved in post-treatment phases. And all the processes require considerable sum of money. So, is it really worth going through all the pain and expenditure when there is a much cheaper, safer choice present? I’m talking about the specially designed alopecia wigs which you can comfortably be used on your scalp without any side-effects, at a reasonable price. The alopecia wigs are especially designed with lace fronts that extend from one ear to another on the scalp. This can be easily worn without an artificial look.

You would now have the query as to how can such a thing that is so simple compete with the professionally promoted surgical or other methods. Well, those alternatives have some major negatives: They restrict your options as you have to be extra careful while making use of them to make them to work their best. Their initial and maintenance costs could consume all your savings. And your petty carelessness to abide by the instructions can cause you great inconvenience. However, with alopecia wigs, there’s no such hassle. You can easily wear it and it becomes inconspicuous and looks like your natural hair. It gives a boost to your personality and you can select from a wide range of styles, hair colors, and bases, whatever suits you the most. No risk, no pain.

Unlike other hair replacements that give an awkward look, alopecia wigs with lace fronts fit perfectly, irrespective of your head shape and size. As alopecia exposes the scalp to UV rays, these wigs block them and save the head from any damage. With lace front wigs, you don’t have to worry about any skin irritation too. They can be worn as frequently as needed. You can use them the maximum for your benefit, by changing your style and outlook, whenever you feel like. So, if you want the best solution for maintaining or enhancing your attractive look, go for alopecia wigs.

Get us to know your views and opinions on these wigs. Use the form below and do keep us posted.

A hair system refers to a type of adopted hair. This can either be a wig or a hairpiece or an extension too. Whatever it be, there are certain factors that need utmost consideration when it comes to the choice of the hair system.
For those of us who suffer from baldness, we tend to rely on these artificial hair systems to get rid of the problem of hair loss. When it comes to the choice of a hair system, there are several factors like the type of hair, the make, the process for attaching it to the human scalp and the like need to be considered and finalized.

Critical Factors

The important points that need to be considered when it comes to non-surgical hair replacement procedures constitute the following:

1. Type of Hair: The first and foremost important point is the type of hair that would be used for the hair system. In case of non surgical hair replacement, either human or animal hair can be used. A combination of both is often used to make it more affordable.
Pros of Using Human Hair
- They look very natural
- They are very comfortable since they are taken from normal human beings.
- They can be of wither Asian or Indian/European origin. Asian hair is affordable and is available at nominal rates while Indian and European hair proves to be costlier.
Cons of Using Human Hair
- The hair systems made out of human hair is usually expensive
- Asian and Indian hair is brittle and can be torn easily
- They loose the shine and color when exposed to sun for extended hours.

2. Process of Manufacture: The hair systems in case of non surgical hair replacement can be hand made or machine made. Customized hand tied wigs are the costliest hair systems available in the market. When it comes to the choice of foundation for the hair system, it can either be mesh or polymer. The polymer type is inexpensive but uncomfortable. The mesh type gives a very natural look and is expensive. It has proven to be comfortable too.

3. Attachment to Scalp: This is yet another factor that is very important in case of non surgical hair replacement. You can either opt for attaching the hair system permanently for 5-6 weeks using glue. You can also get it threaded into your scalp at a salon. Such wigs can only be removed at a salon for cleaning. That is often uncomfortable too. You can also opt for hair systems that can be removed any time and cleaned. They are usually fixed to your scalp using 2 sided tapes. Such hair systems are easy to handle, comfortable to wear but possess the risk of coming out anytime leading to unwanted embarrassments.

4. Cost: In case of non surgical hair replacement procedures, it is important to understand the cost involved before proceeding with the option. Hair systems are available from a few hundred to few thousand dollars. Usually you would require a couple of pieces since you can use one for your daily routine while you can handover the other at the salon for proper maintenance. Opt for the ones that are available at a few thousand dollars for the fact that they have proven to be comfortable and durable than the cheaper ones available in the market.

Hair replacement systems are just the successors of the conventional wigs. The two main advantages of these systems over the wigs can be summarized as

• The modern base materials that are used in the manufacture of the hair replacement systems have made them to become widely acceptable for the comfort that they offer. The wearer need not have the fear of the wig slipping off.
  The natural look that they provide is yet another factor that forces people to opt for these systems.
• On a comparison with the hair transplants, the hair replacement systems fare better due to the fact that there is no surgery involved in case of the latter.

The Design

The choice of materials in case of hair replacement systems mainly depends upon a couple of factors:
- The natural look that the system would offer
The look comes from the fine threads that the base is made of. Ultra fine lace is usually invisible and offers an undetectable appearance when used. Threads made out of polyester and nylon is delicate and hard to distinguish from the scalp of the wearer. They can give the scalp a very natural look that is most sought after. Since they are light weight and delicate, they have proven to be comfortable too. However, the disadvantage of such delicate and fine material is the longevity associated with them. Since they are very delicate, they can be damaged due to acids present in sweat. They can get torn easily too. As a result, the durability of the materials that give a natural look still remains moot.
- The longevity of the system chosen
Durability comes from the base material that is used in the hair replacement system chosen, Polyurethane and silicone are a couple of base materials that offer an unimaginable durability to the system. A combination of both is generally recommended. Silicone is sturdy. It is resistant to the chemicals present in sweat and offers strength while polyurethane has the property of coloring well with dyes which further gives a very natural appearance when worn.
However, both silicone and polyurethane are impermeable to air and water. As a result, the hair replacement systems made out of polyurethane and silicone as base materials are often uncomfortable to wear.

As such, there is always a compromise between durability and the look/appearance that these systems offer. If you are a person, who really wants to have an undetectable scalp and a very durable system, then opt for a replacement system with base made up of polyurethane and silicone mixture. But if you feel that comfort and convenience is what you are bothered about when it comes to the choice of hair replacement systems, opt for the system that has its base made up of delicate materials like nylon or polythene.

Whatever you choose, get to know the advantages and disadvantages associated with the replacement system before you opt for the same. Be clear with the facts and opt for the one that suits your tastes better.

Hair replacement UK has advanced a lot since its inception. Modified and modernized surgical options are present nowadays. Some of the successful techniques are:

Surgical Hair Replacement

The essential prerequisite to any option of hair replacement UK is the presence of at least a few healthy hair on the posterior or sides of the head. A qualified and capable surgeon generally minimizes the risks associated but the possibilities can never be ruled out. To ensure that the healing process is easy, the candidates go through the tests of their blood pressure, blood-clotting and skin-scar issues. During the surgery, the healthy hairs are planted in the balding area by using any one of the following grafting processes:

Grafting

Punch grafting was the first to be applied in surgical hair replacement UK. Initially, this involved placing of 10-15 hairs on the balding region. With time, it has metamorphosed tremendously because it provided an inconsistent look to the hair. Mini-grafting was then introduced. This includes implantation of only 2-4 hairs and hence this appears genuine. Micro-grafting followed the former. This technique made use of 1-2 hairs each. They are planted 1/8th of an inch apart to ensure required blood circulation in the head. The surgery does not end with the operation and the local anesthesia. The candidate undergoes further treatment which involves intense physical exertion with the aim of attaining the required output. 

Non-Surgical Hair Replacement

Surgical hair replacement UK has its associated implications related to the risks and the cost. Hence the non-surgical methods are more sought by many. The advancement in this field has led people to find the closest possible alternative to natural hair. Few types of these procedures are bonding, micro linking, fusions, etc, which bond the hair to the natural ones on the scalp.
The general perception towards wigs and toupees was negative as they appeared artificial, but the revolution swept this concept away considerably as the good-quality wigs and toupees have come out and they have proven to be made from original hair of some donor. An adhesive is required to fix these to the head. However, this has to be maintained through professional help and personal care. Since the well-groomed and chic toupees cost quite high in he marketplace, the person has to have financial means to purchase and maintain them on a long term. Else, it’s better to avoid any hairpiece than opting for a bad one. 

Semi-Surgical Hair Replacement

The semi-surgical methods attach structured hairpieces permanently by stitching them to the scalp. This procedure has a very high level of risk as a foreign material is introduced in the skin and most of the practitioners avoid this approach and do not recommend this to the people.

Weaving

Weaving, also called hair integration, is relatively a safer option, but it applies well only if the scalp has less hair, but not completely bald patches. It involves braiding of synthetic hair into the natural ones. Its usual disadvantages are stunted growth of natural hair, problems with the health of scalp and excessive cost associated to the application. To minimize the drawbacks, reapplication is required after every few weeks usually, so that increases the costs even more.
It is prudent to seek professional help and go through sensitivity test while making the decision of getting a weave. Ensure that you choose certified professionals for the process. Post-weave situation calls for extra care with respect to cleanliness and maintenance of hair. It is advised that the patients going through chemotherapy or alopecia areata do not adopt this option as their existing hair would eventually fall out of the weave and this method would not work out well.

Spray-on Hair Replacement

Spraying on the micro fibers of keratin is an instant method that provides the thinning hair a fuller look at an inexpensive price. It serves the best temporary remedy until the person adopts a more long lasting option, or the results of the procedure applied are pending.

If you are suffering from baldness or loss of hair problem, you might have considered undergoing versatile treatment methodologies. However, the ideal solution for this problem would be the hair transplantation that would render a permanent resolution for this problem of yours.

When you consider the situation a few years back, the hair transplant cost was not affordable. This was almost $15-$20 per graft. A session would constitute the transplantation of a few hundred grafts only. The grafts that were used in this transplantation were also of low quality. But, Of late, the competitive market and the mushrooming of hair transplant clinics have turned the situation upside down. Internet has proven to be a storehouse of information pertaining to the hair transplantation surgeries and as a result the hair transplant cost is drastically coming down. Due to the availability of resources, the quality of the transplants is improving too.

A quick research on this area would tell you that the hair transplant procedures would be charged based on the number of grafts or based on the number of sessions. Nowadays, the approximate cost comes to $5 per graft transplantation. However, this fee comes down if the length of the session increases.

When you decide that you are going to opt for a hair transplant, the first and foremost thing that you should do is to enquire about the surgery at several clinics in depth. A discussion or an in depth consultation with your medical practitioner can help you understand as to what is the type of surgery that you need and how many grafts/sessions you would require.

Contact at least a few clinics and get to know the heart transplant cost that would be involved if you opt for a surgery. Yet another factor that is of utmost importance is the risks that are associated with this surgery.

When you contact a clinic to get the quotation from them for the surgery, talk to the practitioner there to really know whether the chemicals that are being used there. Check whether you are allergic to any of them. If so, discuss and finalize on alternatives.

Ensure that you understand whether there will be a need for the graft removal at any time in future after the surgery. Get an idea as to what are the other risks that are associated with this surgery in detail.

Compare the hair transplant cost and the cost involved in hair loss treatment. Be clear of the fact that though the hair transplant surgery is a permanent solution for your hair loss problem, it is quite expensive.

When you opt for the surgery in cities like Chicago and New York, where you have a competitive market for hair transplantation, you can expect to get the surgery done at affordable rates. Remember to make a wide comparison of both the rates and quality of at least a few clinics before you decide on finalizing the clinic and the methodology for your hair transplant.

The Alopecia areata treatment depends upon the two basic forms of the disease: Mild form with gradual baldness, with 50% of the hair lost and the severe type, causing most or all of the hair lost.

Background

Background knowledge about Alopecia is essential for you to understand the alopecia areata treatment in detail. Alopecia is an autoimmune disease that has an erratic pattern. It makes the white blood cells to invade the hair follicles, so hair growth stops. The subcategories of alopecia namely alopecia totalis and alopecia universalis can cause gradual hair loss of head and the whole body respectively. Researchers are still unsure about whether an internal (gene) or external factor (virus) onsets this affliction. Currently, 1.7% of the total world population is victim to this and this data includes people of all age and race groups. It poses physical and psychological dilemma for patients due to its unexpected and sudden onset and occasional recurrence.

Research

In their pursuit of knowing the possible links and causes and in their venture to devise an effective alopecia areata treatment procedure, researchers revealed the role of some specific genes that make people more vulnerable to this. Also, 20% patients have affected relatives, and such people are prone to the severe form of alopecia areata.

Treatment

There is no sure-shot alopecia areata treatment as yet. However, most commonly practiced way is to stimulate the hair follicles to grow hair through the use of prescribed chemicals.

For the mild condition, cortisone injections are given directly into the scalp painlessly and it occasionally has petty skin depressions as side effects. Mostly, cortisone cream is followed by 5% topical minoxidil that is usually applied twice daily for better action.

Apart from this, anthralin ointment is also used on bald patches once daily. The application period is kept half hour or so, to avoid skin irritation. The expected time frame of successful hair re-growth is 8 – 12 weeks.

However, the above methods fail in treating the severe form of alopecia areata. Cortosine pills are occasionally recommended to patients as its risk level is high. Especially younger patients are not given this medicine due to the high tolerance level of theirs. So, in most cases topical minoxidil 5% is used and proves to be better for extensive alopecia too. Diphencyprone (DPCP) or squaric acid dibutyl ester (SADBE) are used in the alopecia areata treatment in Canada and UK. This chemical cause skin reaction on scalp and it aids 40% of patients to re-grow hair after half a year of treatment.

Just because there is no complete cure from the alopecia areata at present, you should not give up your hope. After all, it’s the will power that retains a person’s vitality. Moreover, scientists are striving to discover a valid alopecia areata treatment by extending their experiments on hair follicles, stem cells, genetic material, etc. and very soon there would be a better option available in the treatment.

If you have other ideas regarding the treatment options, we would be happy to hear from you. Just let us know your views via the feedback form displayed at the bottom of this page.