September is Alopecia Awareness Month
Alopecia affects almost seven million Americans,1 including men, women, and children. This condition can cause hair loss anywhere on the body, but is most notable when it affects the hair on your head.
Types of Alopecia
There are three main types of alopecia2:
Alopecia areata is identifiable by round patches of hair loss on the scalp or body.
Alopecia totalis is when hair loss is visible across the whole scalp.
Alopecia Universalis is the most extreme form of alopecia and is evident by the complete loss of hair on both the scalp and body.
What is Alopecia Awareness Month?
It started initially as a week-long observance in 1986. 3 Since then, it has developed into a national movement, supported by the National Alopecia Areata Foundation (NAAF) as an awareness month observed during September. Thus, it's an opportunity to learn more about it and how it affects those living with it.
If you want to help raise awareness, here are five things you can do:
1.Learn About It
September is an ideal month to learn more about hair loss and this condition. There is a lot of information available online. You can learn the basics of what it is (or read extensively about it if you want to) and discover how it affects those living with the condition. The NAAF website is an excellent place to start learning about alopecia.
2.Connect with Others
If you have alopecia and want to connect with others with the same condition, it might be worth checking to see if there are support groups in your local area or joining a virtual support group. Talking to others will enable you to share your story with people who understand your daily challenges.
Alternatively, if you would like to connect with and show support to someone you know with this condition, lending an ear when they want to talk about it can help them feel like they are not alone.
3.Utilize Social Media
A great way to find out when fundraisers and events are going on is by joining NAAF on social media. Join them on Facebook and Instagram to stay updated on all the latest activities.
4. Organize a Fundraiser
If you feel passionate about the cause, you might want to consider raising money for alopecia research and support. Whether you enjoy baking, art, or sports, you can put your talent to good use.
5. Wear Something Blue
Blue is the official color, so dig through your wardrobe and wear a blue shirt or sweater to show your support.
You can make a difference by being aware of alopecia and how it affects sufferers' lives. Raising awareness fosters support for those with the condition while influencing efforts to improve treatments and find a cure.
It's important to create awareness about alopecia. If you or someone you know is struggling with this hair loss condition, New-U can help. Click here to schedule a free consultation.
Source List:
1. "What you need to know about alopecia areata." National Alopecia Areata Foundation. https://www.naaf.org/alopecia-areata
2. "What you need to know about the different types of alopecia areata." National Alopecia Areata Foundation.
https://www.naaf.org/alopecia-areata/types-of-alopecia-areata
3. Werner, Carly. "September is Alopecia Awareness Month: 8 Ways to Get Involved." Healthline, August 17, 2022.