An Unusual Pattern of Alopecia Areata

A user with alopecia totalis, borderline universalis, seeks advice on getting into a Xeljanz trial or appealing insurance for coverage. They experienced significant hair regrowth but are now seeing hair loss again and want to try Xeljanz.

A 25-year-old experiencing hair thinning all over the body and head, despite using minoxidil and having low vitamin D levels, is advised to seek a second opinion from a dermatologist specializing in hair loss. The likely diagnosis is diffuse alopecia areata, which may require treatment with a JAK inhibitor.

Androgenic alopecia (AGA) might have evolved to reduce prostate cancer risk by increasing UV exposure to the scalp, but this theory is debated. Treatments like minoxidil and finasteride are used for AGA, though the exact causes and evolutionary reasons for hair loss are unclear.

A person with alopecia universalis is considering using Xeljanz but is advised that Olumiant is more effective for their condition. They are under a dermatologist's care and should expect gradual progress, as follicles dormant for 20 years are challenging to reactivate.

The conversation discusses alopecia areata and whether diet changes can resolve it. One user mentions that their condition fluctuates without dietary changes, suggesting stress as a possible factor.

A 25-year-old male experienced significant hair loss due to telogen effluvium and androgenetic alopecia. He began using finasteride, minoxidil, and vitamins, seeing some regrowth but remains worried about hair density.