Alopecia

What is pediatric alopecia?

Alopecia is a condition that causes partial or complete hair loss. Pediatric alopecia affects approximately 1 in 1,000 children and teenagers. Although it is less common in children than adults, hair loss can be emotionally distressing and impact self-confidence when left untreated.

There are several different types of alopecia, and each has its own causes and treatment approach. Early evaluation allows Dr. Trager to identify the cause and begin appropriate care as soon as possible.

What is alopecia areata?

Alopecia areata is an autoimmune form of hair loss in which the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy hair follicles. This commonly leads to smooth, round bald patches on the scalp, eyebrows, eyelashes, or other areas of the body.

Hair loss from alopecia areata can develop suddenly and may occur in cycles of shedding and regrowth. While the condition is not contagious, ongoing dermatologic care can help manage flare-ups and encourage hair regrowth.

What is telogen effluvium?

Telogen effluvium is a type of temporary hair shedding that occurs when a larger-than-normal number of hair follicles enter the resting phase of the growth cycle. This often happens after physical or emotional stress, illness, fever, surgery, nutritional deficiencies, or major life changes.

Unlike alopecia areata, telogen effluvium usually causes diffuse thinning rather than circular hair loss. In many cases, hair growth resumes naturally once the underlying trigger has resolved.

What are the symptoms of alopecia?

Alopecia in children and teens may present as:

• Smooth, bald patches on the scalp
• Generalized thinning of hair
• Hair regrowth followed by repeated shedding
• Permanent hair loss (rare)
• Hair loss affecting the eyebrows, eyelashes, or body
• Changes in hair texture or density

Symptoms vary depending on the type and cause of alopecia. Hair loss is not contagious.

What are the risk factors for alopecia in children?

Your child may have an increased risk of hair loss due to:

• Family history of alopecia
• Tight hairstyles such as ponytails or braids
• Harsh hair care products or chemical treatments
• Emotional or physical stress
• Poor nutrition or vitamin deficiencies
• Scalp infections such as ringworm
• Autoimmune conditions

It’s also normal for newborns to temporarily lose hair, especially on the back of the scalp, during the first few months of life. This hair typically grows back without treatment.

How is alopecia diagnosed?

To diagnose alopecia, Dr. Trager reviews your child’s medical history, lifestyle factors, and symptoms. He may recommend testing such as a hair analysis or blood tests.

Once the underlying cause is identified, a personalized treatment plan is created to support healthy regrowth.

How is alopecia treated?

Treatment depends on the type and severity of hair loss and some will need in-office treatment. Your child’s care plan may include:

• Vitamins or nutritional supplements
• Dietary adjustments
• Changes in hair care routines
• Stress management strategies
• Prescription or topical medications
• Injections
• Oral medications
• Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy
• Light-based treatments

Many children begin to see signs of regrowth within 4–12 weeks of starting treatment. Avoiding tight hairstyles and harsh products can help protect fragile hair during recovery.

Follow-up care helps ensure lasting results and allows adjustments to the treatment plan as needed. Contact TeleDerm Kidz anytime with questions or concerns.

Schedule a telehealth alopecia evaluation at TeleDerm Kidz by calling the office or requesting an appointment online today.