To Treat or Not to Treat: Two Roads Traveled With Alopecia Areata

August 2025 in “ Pediatric Dermatology ”

Catherine S. Taghizadeh, Carolyn Goh

alopecia areata Janus kinase inhibitors AA JAK inhibitors

TLDR Individual choice in treating alopecia areata greatly impacts quality of life.

This document discusses the complex decision-making process in managing alopecia areata (AA), highlighting the importance of patient-centered care and the availability of new treatments. It presents two personal narratives: C.G., a dermatologist with AA, who chooses to embrace baldness, and C.S.T., a medical student, who experiences significant hair regrowth and improved self-identity through Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors. These stories illustrate the profound psychosocial impact of AA and the role of individual choice in treatment decisions, emphasizing how these choices can affect the disease course and quality of life.

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community Is it ok to take Xeljanz (A jak inhibitor) while taking finasteride?

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The conversation is about whether it is safe to take Xeljanz, a JAK inhibitor, while also taking finasteride for hair loss. The concern is that Xeljanz weakens the immune system, which could be risky.

Compressed part of research of theory of androgenic/anabolitic balance. AGA h-responders analytic. Theory of physio-metabolitic method of anti AGA treatment

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MagicBold in Research 865 upvotes 1 year ago

The treatment for androgenetic alopecia involves using finasteride and minoxidil with intense exercise and cold exposure to boost metabolism and reduce androgenic effects, potentially leading to hair regrowth. This approach may activate biological pathways for improved hair and overall health.

community What else is good. Besides the big 3.

in Chat 35 upvotes 1 year ago

Key treatments for hair preservation include minoxidil, finasteride/dutasteride, and microneedling, with additional options like specific shampoos, oils, biotin, zinc, tretinoin, clascoterone, and low-level laser therapy. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, reducing stress, and addressing nutrient deficiencies can also support hair health.

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in Progress Pictures 151 upvotes 2 years ago

User Tricky9555 tried various hair loss treatments for 8 months with no visible results. Others suggested considering a hair transplant, checking thyroid levels, and being patient for up to 24 months for potential results.

community Article of all potential future cures

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Ritlecitinib and PP405 show promise for hair regrowth. Diagnosing the cause of hair loss is crucial before treatment.

community Well here I am 3-4 years later.

in Update 56 upvotes 2 years ago

The conversation is about someone who has been taking finasteride for hair loss without success, considering switching to dutasteride or giving up treatment. Suggestions include trying dutasteride, microneedling, infrared therapy, multivitamins, and high-concentration topical solutions combining finasteride and dutasteride.

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research Serum Zinc Concentration in Patients With Alopecia Areata

October 2023 in “Acta dermato-venereologica (Print)”

People with severe hair loss have lower zinc levels in their blood.