For most, the answer is a qualified yes. Some cases of alopecia areata are temporary, and the hair does grow back. But in some cases, it returns thinner and lighter in color. There are treatments that can help regrow hair by using topical, oral and injectable steroids and drugs. There are also some surgical options where the scalp area can be reduced to tie in sections where hair still grows to cover the bald spots. But in about 5 to 10 percent of cases, the hair does not grow back.

The National Institutes of Health are studying various ways to attack the alopecia areata problem. Methods currently underway include:

1)     Animal testing – Mice with similar issues to human development of alopecia areata are being studied to determine how the disease might progress in humans. Once the triggering mechanism is determined, potential ways to fix the issue can be developed.

2)    Hair follicle studies – There is still much that is unknown about how hair develops, forms and grows. Because stem cells are not affected by alopecia areata and still can send signals to help hair follicles, it’s hoped that connection will reveal the root causes of alopecia areata.

3)    Gene therapy – Scientists have identified the genetic variations that cause alopecia areata. They have also determined the disease is similar to the onset of type 1 diabetes, celiac disease and rheumatoid arthritis, among other autoimmune issues. As research into gene therapies develops, it is hoped that a way to stop whatever signal the genes use to trigger alopecia and other autoimmune diseases can be developed.

Until a breakthrough is made, alopecia areata sufferers will have to contend with treatments that can offer relief, but not a cure. Parents, coaches, teachers, business associates and others who know of someone who has the condition should know that it is not contagious, and the afflicted person is otherwise healthy. The biggest concern with alopecia areata is psychological, so treating the afflicted normally and with dignity is perhaps the best way to provide support.