Should alopecia areata be treated under dermatology or dermatologic surgery?

Alopecia areata can generally be treated at a dermatology clinic and does not require referral to a dermatologic surgery department.

Alopecia areata is a relatively common hair loss condition seen in dermatology, possibly caused by factors such as autoimmune disorders, genetic predisposition, or mental stress. It leads to single or multiple patchy areas of hair loss on the scalp, and in severe cases may progress to universalis alopecia (complete body hair loss) or totalis alopecia (complete scalp hair loss). Since hair is considered an appendage of the skin, diagnosis and treatment can be appropriately managed by dermatologists. Additionally, dermatology clinics are often equipped with specialized instruments such as trichoscopes and dermatoscopes, which assist in evaluating the condition and help make more accurate assessments of the nature and severity of alopecia. Once diagnosed, dermatologists may employ treatments such as scalp phototherapy or intralesional injections, both of which are typically administered within the dermatology department. Therefore, patients with alopecia areata should seek care from a dermatologist.

Patients with alopecia areata should not only follow appropriate treatment plans under medical guidance but also maintain good personal hygiene, regularly clean their hair and scalp, and avoid using irritating shampoos.