Following a joke about Jada Pinkett Smith's close-cropped hairdo, the altercation at the 2022 Academy Awards between Will Smith and Chris Rock brought global attention to alopecia areata. Many were unaware that Jada has alopecia areata—an autoimmune condition that causes hair loss. While she has openly discussed her experiences with the autoimmune disorder since 2018, the discussion after the Oscars brought new awareness to a condition that affects approximately 160 million people worldwide.

In this article, I shed light on this condition and how it impacts those living with it, drawing on my experience working with individuals facing similar hair loss challenges.

What Is Alopecia Areata?

Alopecia areata causes round bald patches that, in some cases, can progress to alopecia totalis (total scalp hair loss) or alopecia universalis (total body and scalp hair loss). It impacts people of all ages and ethnicities. In my experience working with clients, alopecia areata can be unpredictable, appearing suddenly without warning.

What Causes Alopecia Areata?

This condition is autoimmune in nature, meaning the body’s immune system mistakenly targets and may destroy its own hair follicles. The immune system plays a central role in this, attacking the hair follicles and disrupting the natural hair growth cycle. While it can be triggered by genetics, other factors like toxins, chronic stress, inflammation, poor gut health and hormonal imbalances can also play a significant role in triggering autoimmunity.

Alternative Treatments and Diagnosis

Instead of relying solely on conventional treatments, like steroids or the newly approved baricitinib, I take a whole-body approach that is garnering long-term success. Functional medicine and nutrition offer ways to address the root causes of autoimmune conditions like alopecia areata. These include:

• Balancing the Immune System: Supporting immune function through gut health is crucial. By healing gut inflammation and restoring a healthy microbiome, we can help modulate the immune response and potentially reduce the autoimmune attack on hair follicles.
• Nutrition and Absorption: Optimizing nutrient absorption with an anti-inflammatory diet rich in nutrients that support immune health, such as omega-3s, vitamin D, and antioxidants, can help calm the inflammation that fuels alopecia areata. Certain supplements may also help balance the immune system and promote hair regrowth.
• Stress Management: Chronic or acute stress is a known trigger for autoimmune flare-ups. Incorporating stress-reducing practices like mindfulness, meditation, and restorative exercises can help prevent further hair loss by supporting a balanced immune system.

Diagnosis is often based on visual exams, but it’s equally important to run functional lab tests to assess gut health, nutrient levels, hormonal imbalances, toxic loads, and potential inflammatory triggers.

The Emotional Impact

Hair loss, especially when it’s unpredictable, can take a heavy toll on self-esteem and emotional well-being. Many people with alopecia areata feel anxiety over whether their hair will grow back. I’ve seen firsthand how deeply this condition impacts my clients and understand the need for both emotional support and a holistic approach to healing.

Is Hair Loss an Urgent Issue? Scarring?

While hair loss may not be life-threatening, it can certainly be life-altering. If you’re concerned about hair loss, consulting with a specialist is worth it to prevent more extensive hair loss and scarring. Even though hair loss like alopecia areata can sometimes improve on its own, addressing it promptly can make a huge difference. It is nearly impossible to reverse if it progresses to scarring of the hair follicles.
If you or someone you know is experiencing hair loss or suspect an autoimmune condition like alopecia areata, we are happy to evaluate your condition and explore natural functional medicine and nutrition approaches that address the root causes and find solutions. Early intervention can make all the difference.

In the meantime, take our QUIZ to find out the root cause(s) of your hair loss. And the HealthyHairFix™ Foundations 30-Day program can give you a jumpstart!