Hair Loss & Alopecia
Hair loss research splits by cause: patches from an immune reaction, gradual thinning with age, and rarer forms that leave scarring.
What research here looks at
Alopecia simply means hair loss. In alopecia areata the immune system targets hair follicles and hair falls out in patches, sometimes across the whole scalp or body. Pattern hair loss is gradual and runs in families. Scarring forms destroy follicles and are studied to stop them spreading.
Studies test tablets and creams that calm the immune reaction, treatments applied to the scalp, light-based devices and procedures. Progress is measured with photographs and counts taken the same way at every visit.
The studies you are likely to find
Alopecia areata studies
Test medicines that calm the immune reaction against hair follicles.
Pattern hair loss studies
Compare treatments for gradual thinning on the crown or temples.
Scarring alopecia studies
Look for ways to stop inflammation before it leaves permanent loss.
What taking part
can involve
Every study is different, and its consent form sets out exactly what it asks. These are the things studies in this area often include.
- Standard photographs of the scalp at every visit
- Hair counts in a small marked area, sometimes using a dot tattoo
- Scalp exams by a dermatologist
- Blood tests when a medicine is taken by mouth
- Keeping your usual haircut, products and color during the study
Lines that listings in this area
often publish
The type of hair loss diagnosed by a dermatologist
An amount of hair loss within the range the study measures at screening
How long the current episode of hair loss has lasted
Treatments used recently, which may need a break before starting
A hair transplant in the area being studied
These are patterns, not rules. Each study writes its own criteria, and only its team can say how a line applies to you.
Questions worth asking the study team
- How will my hair loss be measured?
- Do I need to stop treatments I use now?
- Can I dye, cut or style my hair during the study?
- What happens if my hair grows back, or falls out again, after the study?
Look for hair loss and alopecia studies
The register opens in a new tab, already set to this condition and to studies that are recruiting.
Search ClinicalTrials.govOrva does not run or choose these studies. Contact the team a listing names.
