What is Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia?
My best friend in high school had a mother with a hairline that started about a third of the way back from where most hairlines begin. As if that wasn’t challenging enough, her hair was also very fine. She tried everything to disguise it, from wearing different hairstyles to wearing wigs for special occasions. In all the years I knew her, I just thought she had an unusually high forehead! Little did I know she had something called Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia, or FFA. I wish I knew then what I know now. Perhaps I could have helped her.
I’ve received numerous calls from women complaining that their hairlines are moving backward. I’m not talking about those pesky little “baby hairs” in the front that never grow long or a slight receding hairline. And, I’m not talking about hair that might have fallen out from braids that were too tight or years of chemical abuse. That’s a topic for another time. We’re talking about areas of hair, sometimes a band of hair, that’s no longer there, or an area that has just a few lone hairs remaining. We’re talking about FFA.
What is FFA and what can be done about it?
Let’s begin by breaking down the name Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia (FFA):
Frontal
Hair loss is typically seen around the front hairline, around the ears, the neckline and the eyebrows.
Fibrosing
Scarring. The skin often looks smooth and shiny because the follicles have been scarred over.
Alopecia
Hair loss.
FFA is most common in post-menopausal, Caucasian women with onset occurring around age 45 to 65. However, women of color and men can experience FFA too. The number of cases reported is increasing. Why? Perhaps because of the large number of Baby Boomers who are entering menopause or who are post-menopausal, which leads researchers to believe that hormones may play a role. And, because FFA often occurs around the front hairline where people apply face creams and sunscreens, ingredients used for UV protection are suspect.
However, most research suggests that the cause is autoimmune related and associated with something called Lichen Planopilaris (LPP). LPP is an inflammatory condition that affects the skin and hair. The autoimmune system attacks the hair follicles, literally killing them. The good news is FFA tends to progress slowly. The not-so-good news is, it’s often permanent. That’s why it’s important to get diagnosed early in order slow down the progression.
What can be done to treat FFA?
Consult with a Certified Trichologist, a specialist in disorders of the hair and scalp. They have the knowledge to correctly identify FFA and can provide treatment options that will help balance the scalp, reduce inflammation and slow down hair loss. They may recommend “problem specific” shampoos and treatments, topicals, nutritional supplements and the use of Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT). They can recommend a hairstylist who specializes in clients with hair loss or who specializes in hair pieces. They may refer you to a doctor to prescribe corticosteroids, immune suppressing drugs and androgen blockers. And, for more advanced cases they can refer you to a reputable hair restoration surgeon for PRP or FUE, some of the latest techniques for transplanting hair. Not only can a trichologist help in the identification and treatment of FFA, they can provide compassionate support and reputable referrals.
If you’re suffering from thinning hair or hair loss, I encourage you reach out sooner rather than later. Lost time can mean lost follicles. To schedule an in-person or virtual consultation, call at (773) 576-7500 or contact me at karen@gordonhair.com. I am here to help you achieve the hair you’ve always desired!