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Cures for Alopecia Universalis

Alopecia Universalis is an extremely rare condition that results in the total loss of hair on the entire body. Currently there is no single drug intervention available to treat the total body hair loss that occurs with alopecia universalis, but there are a number of treatment options that have shown promising results. As with any medical intervention, it is important to fully explore any potential health risks or side effects before beginning a particular treatment method.

  1. Topical Immunotherapy

    • One of the most popular options for treating alopecia universalis is topical immunotherapy. In fact, the National Alopecia Areata Foundation reports that there is about a 50 percent success rate with patients who use this form of immunotherapy. Basically, topical immunotherapy involves the use of creams or lotions to produce an allergic skin reaction to the irritating substance with the goal of exciting hair follicles to once again grow hair. Though this method has shown success in selected patients, the side effects may be uncomfortable and include itching and a skin rash. Also, treatment with topical immunotherapy must continue until the hair follicles resume their normal growth pattern or hair loss will recur.

    Cortisone Treatment

    • Cortisone shots or pills have also shown success in treating sufferers of Alopecia Universalis, but they are accompanied by a number of side effects and cannot be continued indefinitely. Though relatively safe when monitored by a physician, cortisone pills are a short-term treatment option because of potential side effects resulting from chronic use.

      Cortisone shots are also an option, but are limited in their successful treatment of the condition as they only regrow hair at the site of injection. Additionally, if hair loss recurs, another cortisone shot must be administered to regrow the hair.

    Alternative Treatments

    • Another form of treatment for Alopecia Universalis is aromatherapy which has been reported to be successful, but these claims have not been substantiated. As with any treatment intervention, it is best to consult with a personal physician before beginning any treatment option.

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