Alopecia areata is a common disorder that results in patchy hairloss on the scalp.  The hair follicles are still present and hair can regrow if the cells get the correct signals.  Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disease in which the body's immune system attacks the hair follicles by mistake.  We do not know what  activates the immune system  but researchers believe that it is a combination of genetic and environmental causes such as bacteria or viruses which may confuse the immune system into attacking its own cells.

Bald areas of alpopecia will often regrow with no treatment.  Treatments that can help speed the process include intralesional steroid injections, topical minoxidil, and anthralin for milder cases (less than 50% hair loss) . And oral steroids and topical immunotherapy for more severe cases.  Wigs can be used to hide the hairloss while undergoing treatment.

Alopecia areata can wax and wane.  While patients are usually physically healthy, emotionally, alopecia can be distressing.  The National Alopecia Areata Foundation offers information and support to anyone suffering from alopecia.

Do you have a raised bump on your scalp that is not painful, but doesn't go away?  You probably have a pilar or trichilemmal cyst.  Originating from the hair follicle, 90% of these grow on the scalp, and they do run in families.

Pilar cysts may or may not be tender depending on whether or not they have ruptured.  They usually grow slowly over years and unless they are manipulated.    On rare occasions, one may grow aggressively.  While still benign, the rapidly growing ones are called proliferating trichimlemmal cysts and need to be excised.

Treatment of pilar cysts is surgical excision.  After the skin over the nodule is numbed, an incision is made over the bump and the cyst is pulled out.  Usually only one stitch is needed to close the wound.  You may shampoo the next day and the  stitch is usually removed in 10-14 days.  

Call for a consultation today.  It you have a pilar cyst or two, you can be scheduled for surgical excision and have a smooth scalp in no time.

Mother's Day is next Sunday.  Spoil yourself or the other women in your life with an extra 15% all of our skincare products.  Everything from sunscreen to anti aging products are discounted.  It's a great time to stock up for summer.

Also, May is a great time to think about Miradry.  The hot, humid North Carolina summer is coming and Miradry can help you feel cool and confident.  Anyone with underarm sweating can benefit from the treatment.  It is not only for those with excessive sweating.  Appointments for this procedure are booking up fast, so call today and start enjoying new summer outfits without under arm sweat rings.