What is the outlook for alopecia?

Full recovery of hair is common when the hair loss is not long-term or widespread. Normal thickness is often achieved within months to a year in cases of telogen effluvium, anagen effluvium and alopecia areata. However, when hair loss affects half of the scalp or more, it is much less likely that hair will regrow. Hair regrowth is also less likely when hair loss starts at a young age, or occurs together with nail abnormalities, allergies or an autoimmune condition. The results of taking medications vary depending on the option chosen and the type of hair loss. Medications used for pattern hair loss tend to slow the progress of hair loss, rather than stimulate new growth.