Will My Hair Grow Back After Alopecia?

Hair can grow back after some types of alopecia, but regrowth is not guaranteed. The outlook depends on the cause of the hair loss and whether the follicles remain intact. Alopecia areata can allow regrowth; follicles destroyed by scarring cannot produce new hair. A GP or dermatologist can advise on your circumstances.

Alopecia is a medical term for hair loss, rather than one single condition. This is why another person’s experience may be quite different from yours, even if you both describe your hair loss as alopecia.

For an overview of the different conditions, read our Complete Guide to Alopecia Types.

These differences are why getting a diagnosis matters. If you have unexplained hair loss, speak to your GP rather than trying to identify the cause from photographs online. You can also read our scarring alopecia guide for more about permanent follicle damage.

Regrowth may start with fine hairs that are difficult to see. New hairs can initially appear white or lighter than your usual colour, and they may become more noticeable as they grow.

These can be encouraging changes, but early regrowth cannot tell you how much hair will return or whether it will remain.  It’s understandable to want to check the area regularly. If checking becomes upsetting, you might prefer to take an occasional photograph in similar lighting, provided that feels helpful to you. You do not need to examine your scalp every day.

With alopecia areata, regrowth may happen over months, although it can take longer. There is no guaranteed timetable, and some people do not experience regrowth. Other causes of hair loss follow different patterns. For example, with telogen effluvium, shedding can settle before your hair feels as full as it did previously. Returning to your usual volume may take many months.

Try not to measure your progress against someone online who describes a quick recovery. Their diagnosis, treatment and circumstances may be different from yours. If you are unsure whether your hair loss is improving, your clinician can help you understand what they are looking for and when a review would be useful.

Yes. Alopecia areata can recur after regrowth, so hair returning does not necessarily mean the condition has gone permanently. That uncertainty can be difficult. You may feel relieved when you see new hairs, then anxious about losing them again. Those feelings are understandable, and you deserve support with the emotional side of hair loss as well as its physical effects. Let your GP or dermatologist know if you notice further changes, particularly if you are receiving treatment.

Stress can be associated with some forms of hair loss, including telogen effluvium. However, that does not mean every case of alopecia is caused by stress, or that relaxing will make your hair return.  Please don’t put pressure on yourself to “stop worrying so my hair will grow back”. Looking after your sleep, eating regularly and making space for emotional support can help you cope. You can do these things for your wellbeing without treating them as a test you have to pass for regrowth.

The most useful starting point is finding out what is causing your hair loss. Treatment advice should follow that diagnosis.

Speak to your GP before spending money on products or commercial treatments. Be cautious about promises to cure alopecia or guarantee regrowth. The NHS recommends getting medical advice about the cause of hair loss before approaching a commercial hair clinic.

Questions you could take to your appointment include:

• What type of hair loss do I have?
• Is regrowth possible with this diagnosis?
• What are the benefits and limitations of treatment?
• How will we assess whether treatment is helping?
• When should I come back for a review?

If hair loss is accompanied by scalp pain, burning, redness or scaling, mention these symptoms when seeking advice. Some inflammatory conditions can damage follicles, making assessment particularly important.

You do not need to wait for a definite answer about regrowth before exploring a wig. Some people want an option that helps them feel more like themselves while they wait. Others prefer a headscarf, hat or no covering at all. You might also feel differently from one day to the next.

Wearing a wig does not mean you have given up on your own hair. You can hope for regrowth and choose something that helps you feel comfortable today. If you decide to explore alternative hair, comfort, fit and attachment matter. Tell your wig adviser about any tenderness, existing hair or scalp treatment so they can help you consider suitable options. If your scalp is inflamed or you use prescribed treatments, ask your clinician about any precautions.

This can be a difficult possibility to think about, particularly when you are still adjusting to hair loss. You do not have to make every decision now. You might start by talking to someone you trust, asking your GP about emotional support or exploring practical options at your own pace. At Simply Wigs, we understand that people come to us at very different stages. Some want to browse quietly. Some have a long list of questions. Others simply want to speak to someone who will listen. Whatever feels right for you, there is no deadline for deciding how you want to manage your appearance.