9+ Effective Alopecia Treatment Options Near Me Today


9+ Effective Alopecia Treatment Options Near Me Today

The question represents a seek for native medical interventions addressing hair loss circumstances. People experiencing thinning hair, bald patches, or different signs associated to alopecia typically use this phrase to find dermatologists, clinics, or specialists of their geographical neighborhood who supply related therapies.

Accessing geographically handy medical providers is essential for constant therapy adherence and follow-up appointments. The profit lies in simplifying the method of receiving diagnoses, initiating therapy plans, and managing potential unwanted effects below the supervision of an area healthcare supplier. Traditionally, people confronted challenges to find specialised care, making localized search capabilities a major development in healthcare accessibility.

The next sections will delve into the assorted therapeutic approaches out there for alopecia, components to contemplate when choosing a healthcare supplier, and the significance of customized therapy methods based mostly on the particular kind and severity of hair loss skilled.

1. Native dermatologists

The search time period “alopecia therapy close to me” essentially depends on the presence and accessibility of native dermatologists. These medical professionals are the first level of contact for people in search of analysis and administration of hair loss circumstances. The cause-and-effect relationship is direct: the necessity for alopecia therapy necessitates discovering a certified dermatologist in proximity. The absence of native dermatologists successfully negates the opportunity of receiving well timed and applicable care.

Native dermatologists are essential as a result of they supply in-person examinations, that are important for precisely diagnosing the particular kind of alopecia. For instance, differentiating between androgenetic alopecia (sample baldness), alopecia areata (an autoimmune situation), and telogen effluvium (stress-related hair shedding) requires scientific analysis. Moreover, native accessibility permits for constant follow-up appointments to observe therapy efficacy, handle unwanted effects, and alter therapy plans as wanted. The comfort issue is very essential for continual circumstances like alopecia, the place long-term administration is commonly required.

In abstract, the supply of native dermatologists is paramount for these looking for “alopecia therapy close to me.” Their experience in analysis, customized therapy plans, and ongoing administration is indispensable. Challenges in rural or underserved areas, the place entry to dermatologists could also be restricted, spotlight the important want for increasing healthcare entry to make sure equitable look after all people experiencing hair loss. The flexibility to simply discover and seek the advice of with an area dermatologist immediately impacts the effectiveness of alopecia therapy and general affected person well-being.

2. Remedy choices

The effectiveness of “alopecia therapy close to me” hinges considerably on the supply and number of therapeutic interventions provided by native suppliers. A direct correlation exists: the broader the vary of therapy choices accessible regionally, the larger the probability of discovering an appropriate and efficient resolution for a person’s particular kind and stage of alopecia. For instance, a clinic providing solely topical minoxidil could also be inadequate for sufferers with extreme alopecia areata requiring intralesional corticosteroid injections or systemic immunomodulatory medicine. The scope of accessible remedies, subsequently, dictates the potential for profitable administration.

Moreover, several types of alopecia reply to totally different remedies. Androgenetic alopecia, as an illustration, typically entails medicines like finasteride or dutasteride alongside minoxidil, whereas alopecia areata might necessitate topical or injected corticosteroids, phototherapy, and even immunosuppressants in extreme circumstances. A localized supplier providing a complete suite of therapies, together with each pharmaceutical and procedural choices like platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections or hair transplantation, is best outfitted to tailor therapy plans to particular person affected person wants. This customized strategy will increase the likelihood of constructive outcomes and affected person satisfaction. Contemplate the sensible implications: a person looking for “alopecia therapy close to me” hopes to discover a supplier able to providing a number of avenues for hair regrowth or stabilization, not a one-size-fits-all resolution.

In conclusion, the variability and class of therapy choices considerably influence the real-world worth of “alopecia therapy close to me.” The provision of numerous therapies, starting from standard medicines to superior procedures, empowers native suppliers to ship customized care and enhance therapy success charges. Nevertheless, disparities in entry to superior remedies in sure geographical areas current a problem, highlighting the necessity for larger funding in specialised dermatological providers and expanded entry to modern therapies throughout all communities. The last word aim is to make sure that people in search of native alopecia therapy have entry to the complete spectrum of evidence-based interventions required to deal with their particular situation successfully.

3. Analysis accuracy

The phrase “alopecia therapy close to me” intrinsically assumes correct analysis as a prerequisite for efficient care. The success of any geographically handy therapy technique hinges upon appropriately figuring out the particular kind of hair loss. An incorrect analysis can result in ineffective and even detrimental interventions. For example, mistaking androgenetic alopecia for alopecia areata might consequence within the inappropriate use of immunosuppressants, probably inflicting pointless unwanted effects with out addressing the underlying situation. The cause-and-effect relationship is plain: correct analysis facilitates applicable therapy, whereas misdiagnosis undermines therapeutic efforts.

Contemplate the sensible implications. A affected person looking for “alopecia therapy close to me” expects the native supplier to distinguish between scarring (cicatricial) and non-scarring alopecias. Scarring alopecias, equivalent to lichen planopilaris or frontal fibrosing alopecia, require aggressive early intervention to stop everlasting hair follicle destruction. Therapies efficient for non-scarring alopecias, equivalent to minoxidil, are ineffective for these circumstances and early analysis and therapy with the suitable interventions equivalent to corticosteroids and different immunosuppressants is important to slowing or halting illness development. One other instance could be the necessity to distinguish between telogen effluvium (short-term hair shedding) from Persistent Telogen Effluvium the place the hair shedding has endured longer than six months. A complete medical historical past, bodily examination and lab testing are important in diagnosing and managing telogen effluvium.

In abstract, “alopecia therapy close to me” is simply as precious because the accuracy of the underlying analysis. Correct identification of the alopecia kind permits focused therapy methods, maximizing the potential for constructive outcomes and minimizing the danger of hostile results. Challenges come up in areas with restricted entry to dermatologists or specialised diagnostic instruments, probably resulting in misdiagnoses and suboptimal care. Subsequently, bettering diagnostic accuracy by means of coaching and expanded entry to superior diagnostic strategies is crucial for enhancing the effectiveness of localized alopecia therapy.

4. Price transparency

Price transparency performs a vital function within the efficacy of “alopecia therapy close to me.” The accessibility of therapy extends past geographical proximity; it necessitates clear and upfront communication relating to the monetary implications of analysis and therapeutic interventions. The absence of value transparency can create limitations to care, main people to delay or forego therapy regardless of the supply of native choices.

  • Preliminary Session and Diagnostic Testing Prices

    Clear pricing for preliminary consultations and diagnostic procedures, equivalent to trichoscopy or scalp biopsies, permits sufferers to make knowledgeable choices about in search of analysis. Hidden charges or unclear billing practices can deter people from pursuing a analysis, hindering well timed intervention. For example, if a clinic advertises “alopecia therapy close to me” however fails to reveal the price of important diagnostic assessments upfront, potential sufferers might hesitate to schedule an appointment, fearing surprising bills.

  • Remedy Price Estimates

    Offering clear and itemized value estimates for varied therapy choices empowers sufferers to check costs and assess affordability. This transparency is especially essential for continual circumstances like alopecia, the place long-term therapy could also be required. With out such estimates, sufferers might decide to a therapy plan with out totally understanding the monetary burden, resulting in potential non-compliance or discontinuation on account of unexpected prices. “Alopecia therapy close to me” turns into a hole promise if monetary constraints render it inaccessible.

  • Insurance coverage Protection and Fee Choices

    Clear info relating to insurance coverage protection and accepted cost strategies is crucial for facilitating entry to “alopecia therapy close to me.” Clinics that clearly talk which insurance policy they settle for and supply versatile cost choices, equivalent to installment plans, scale back monetary limitations for sufferers. Conversely, an absence of transparency relating to insurance coverage protection can result in confusion and frustration, discouraging people from in search of therapy. Some clinics may additionally supply package deal offers with reductions to make the general value of therapy extra accessible.

  • Medicine Prices

    For remedies involving prescription medicines like minoxidil or finasteride, offering details about medicine prices and potential generic options is essential. Sufferers must be knowledgeable about potential out-of-pocket bills and techniques for minimizing these prices, equivalent to using prescription low cost packages or evaluating costs at totally different pharmacies. Transparency relating to medicine prices permits sufferers to proactively handle their healthcare bills and cling to their prescribed therapy routine. “Alopecia therapy close to me” ought to embody clear info associated to the therapy and drugs prices

In essence, “alopecia therapy close to me” mustn’t solely point out geographical comfort but in addition monetary accessibility. Price transparency empowers sufferers to make knowledgeable choices, evaluate suppliers, and cling to therapy plans with out going through surprising monetary burdens. Enhancing value transparency in native alopecia therapy fosters belief between sufferers and suppliers, resulting in improved therapy adherence and general affected person satisfaction.

5. Handy Appointments

The practicality of “alopecia therapy close to me” is intrinsically linked to the benefit with which people can schedule and attend appointments. Accessibility extends past geographical proximity to embody scheduling flexibility and minimal wait occasions. The provision of handy appointments immediately influences affected person adherence to therapy plans and the general effectiveness of care.

  • Versatile Scheduling Choices

    Clinics providing numerous scheduling choices, equivalent to on-line reserving, night or weekend appointments, and short-notice availability, improve the comfort issue for people in search of “alopecia therapy close to me.” This flexibility accommodates different work schedules and private commitments, decreasing limitations to care. For instance, a clinic providing night appointments permits sufferers to obtain therapy with out taking day off work, growing the probability of constant attendance.

  • Minimal Wait Occasions

    Prolonged wait occasions for appointments can deter people from pursuing “alopecia therapy close to me,” significantly if signs are quickly progressing or inflicting important misery. Clinics that prioritize environment friendly scheduling and reduce wait occasions enhance affected person satisfaction and scale back the danger of therapy delays. Streamlined appointment administration methods and proactive communication relating to wait occasions are important for optimizing affected person expertise.

  • Telemedicine Integration

    The combination of telemedicine into “alopecia therapy close to me” expands accessibility by offering digital session and follow-up choices. Telemedicine permits sufferers to obtain care from the consolation of their properties, eliminating journey time and decreasing the necessity for in-person appointments. That is particularly helpful for people in rural areas or these with mobility limitations.

  • Appointment Reminders and Comply with-Up Techniques

    Efficient appointment reminder methods, equivalent to textual content message or e-mail reminders, reduce no-show charges and make sure that sufferers adhere to their scheduled appointments. Moreover, proactive follow-up methods, together with automated appointment reminders, improve affected person engagement and encourage constant participation in therapy. “Alopecia therapy close to me” is simplest when coupled with sturdy appointment administration and follow-up protocols.

In abstract, the comfort of appointment scheduling considerably impacts the perceived worth of “alopecia therapy close to me.” Clinics that prioritize versatile scheduling, minimal wait occasions, telemedicine integration, and efficient reminder methods improve affected person accessibility and enhance the probability of profitable therapy outcomes. Bettering the comfort of appointment administration is essential for optimizing affected person care and maximizing the advantages of localized alopecia therapy choices.

6. Affected person opinions

Affected person opinions function a important component in evaluating the standard and effectiveness of “alopecia therapy close to me.” These opinions supply insights into real-world experiences, contributing to knowledgeable decision-making when choosing an area healthcare supplier.

  • Accuracy of Analysis and Remedy Efficacy

    Critiques typically spotlight the accuracy of analysis offered by a dermatologist, a key think about profitable alopecia administration. Sufferers steadily share experiences relating to the effectiveness of prescribed remedies, providing views on whether or not the intervention led to hair regrowth, stabilization of hair loss, or administration of signs. Constructive opinions on this area recommend competence in figuring out the particular kind of alopecia and delivering applicable therapeutic methods.

  • Communication and Affected person Care

    The standard of communication between the healthcare supplier and the affected person is steadily addressed in opinions. Sufferers typically touch upon the dermatologist’s capability to clarify the analysis, therapy choices, and potential unwanted effects clearly and empathetically. Critiques may additionally mirror the dermatologist’s attentiveness to affected person considerations and willingness to deal with questions completely. Constructive suggestions on this space signifies a patient-centered strategy, contributing to general satisfaction.

  • Clinic Setting and Accessibility

    Affected person opinions typically present insights into the clinic’s surroundings, together with cleanliness, consolation, and the professionalism of the employees. Accessibility components, equivalent to appointment scheduling ease, wait occasions, and the supply of handy parking, are additionally steadily talked about. Constructive opinions on this regard recommend a well-managed clinic that prioritizes affected person comfort.

  • Price Transparency and Billing Practices

    Experiences with value transparency and billing practices may additionally floor in affected person opinions. Sufferers might touch upon whether or not the prices of consultations, diagnostic assessments, and coverings have been clearly defined upfront and whether or not billing procedures have been simple and correct. Constructive suggestions suggests a clear strategy to monetary issues, fostering belief and confidence.

In abstract, affected person opinions supply multifaceted insights into the standard of “alopecia therapy close to me,” encompassing diagnostic accuracy, therapy efficacy, communication, clinic surroundings, and value transparency. These opinions contribute to a extra complete understanding of the affected person expertise, enabling people to make knowledgeable choices when in search of native dermatological care. By contemplating these views, people can improve the probability of discovering a supplier who aligns with their particular wants and preferences, in the end bettering therapy outcomes and satisfaction.

7. Publish-treatment assist

The effectiveness of “alopecia therapy close to me” extends considerably past the preliminary intervention, encompassing complete post-treatment assist. This part is integral as a result of alopecia administration is commonly a long-term course of, requiring ongoing monitoring, changes to therapy plans, and administration of potential unwanted effects. The absence of sturdy post-treatment assist can undermine the advantages of even essentially the most superior therapies, resulting in affected person dissatisfaction and potential therapy failure. A direct cause-and-effect relationship exists: sufficient post-treatment assist enhances long-term therapy adherence and improves general affected person outcomes.

Contemplate a real-life instance: a person receiving intralesional corticosteroid injections for alopecia areata experiences important hair regrowth. Nevertheless, with out correct post-treatment monitoring, potential unwanted effects equivalent to pores and skin atrophy or telangiectasias might go unnoticed and unmanaged. Equally, sufferers present process hair transplantation require meticulous post-operative care to make sure graft survival and reduce issues. Entry to native suppliers for follow-up appointments, wound care, and drugs administration is essential. “Alopecia therapy close to me” ought to thus be understood as a steady course of, not a singular occasion, and native suppliers have to be outfitted to supply ongoing assist and steering.

In abstract, the supply of complete post-treatment assist is a important element of efficient “alopecia therapy close to me.” It ensures long-term therapy adherence, facilitates early detection and administration of unwanted effects, and maximizes the potential for sustained hair regrowth or stabilization. Challenges stay in standardizing post-treatment protocols and making certain equitable entry to those providers throughout totally different geographical areas. Nonetheless, recognizing the significance of post-treatment assist is crucial for bettering the general high quality and effectiveness of native alopecia administration methods.

8. Specialist availability

The effectiveness of “alopecia therapy close to me” is considerably influenced by the prepared availability of specialists with experience in diagnosing and managing advanced hair loss circumstances. Entry to specialised information and superior therapy modalities are important components in figuring out the success of native therapeutic interventions.

  • Diagnostic Experience for Advanced Instances

    Specialists possess the superior diagnostic expertise essential to differentiate between varied forms of alopecia, particularly in circumstances presenting with atypical signs or overlapping options. Correct analysis is paramount, as therapy methods range considerably relying on the underlying reason for hair loss. For example, differentiating between cicatricial alopecias, which require immediate and aggressive intervention to stop everlasting hair follicle destruction, and non-cicatricial alopecias calls for specialised information. The absence of available specialists might delay correct analysis, probably resulting in suboptimal outcomes.

  • Entry to Superior Remedy Modalities

    Sure types of alopecia, equivalent to extreme alopecia areata or refractory androgenetic alopecia, might require superior therapy modalities past the scope of basic dermatology. Specialists usually tend to supply remedies equivalent to systemic immunomodulatory brokers, photodynamic remedy, or superior hair transplantation strategies. “Alopecia therapy close to me” is thus enhanced when specialists present entry to a broader spectrum of therapeutic choices tailor-made to particular person affected person wants.

  • Administration of Remedy-Resistant Instances

    Specialists are sometimes consulted for managing treatment-resistant circumstances of alopecia, the place preliminary therapies have failed to provide the specified outcomes. Their experience in advanced case administration permits them to re-evaluate the analysis, discover different therapy methods, and handle potential issues. The provision of native specialists offers a important useful resource for people who haven’t responded to plain remedies, providing the next probability of attaining constructive outcomes.

  • Analysis and Medical Trials

    Specialists usually tend to be concerned in analysis and scientific trials, offering sufferers with entry to cutting-edge therapies and modern therapy approaches that will not be broadly out there. Participation in scientific trials can supply people with refractory alopecia the chance to discover novel remedies below shut medical supervision. “Alopecia therapy close to me,” when linked to specialist experience, can thus function a conduit for accessing the newest advances in alopecia analysis and therapy.

In conclusion, the supply of specialists considerably enhances the worth of “alopecia therapy close to me,” making certain entry to correct diagnoses, superior remedies, and knowledgeable administration of advanced or treatment-resistant circumstances. The presence of native specialists not solely improves the probability of profitable outcomes but in addition fosters a way of confidence and reassurance amongst people in search of native alopecia care.

9. Insurance coverage protection

The worth of “alopecia therapy close to me” is immediately proportional to the extent of insurance coverage protection relevant to the analysis and administration of hair loss circumstances. Insurance coverage protection acts as a major determinant of accessibility, remodeling a geographically handy service right into a financially viable choice for people in search of therapy. The absence of sufficient insurance coverage advantages can successfully negate the accessibility implied by geographical proximity, rendering native providers unaffordable and, consequently, inaccessible for a lot of.

Insurance policy typically range significantly of their protection of alopecia remedies. Some insurance policies might cowl diagnostic procedures, equivalent to scalp biopsies, and coverings for alopecia stemming from underlying medical circumstances, like thyroid issues or lupus. Nevertheless, protection for remedies addressing androgenetic alopecia (male or feminine sample baldness) or alopecia areata, typically thought of beauty circumstances, could also be restricted or fully excluded. For instance, a person looking for “alopecia therapy close to me” may discover a extremely regarded native dermatologist, however the price of prescribed minoxidil or finasteride will not be lined below their insurance coverage plan, resulting in important out-of-pocket bills and probably hindering long-term adherence to the therapy routine. Some insurance coverage corporations might require prior authorization for sure remedies, including complexity to the method. Moreover, the kind of insurance coverage planHMO, PPO, or POScan affect the selection of suppliers and the extent of protection out there.

In abstract, whereas finding “alopecia therapy close to me” addresses the problem of geographical entry, the important issue of insurance coverage protection dictates whether or not that therapy is financially inside attain. Clear communication between healthcare suppliers, insurance coverage corporations, and sufferers is crucial to navigate the complexities of protection and make sure that people in search of native alopecia care can entry inexpensive and efficient therapy choices. Bettering insurance coverage protection for alopecia is a key step in enhancing healthcare fairness and making certain that people can successfully handle this typically emotionally distressing situation.

Regularly Requested Questions Concerning “Alopecia Remedy Close to Me”

This part addresses frequent inquiries regarding native alopecia remedies, offering factual and unbiased info to information knowledgeable decision-making.

Query 1: What components must be thought of when selecting an area supplier for alopecia therapy?

The choice course of ought to incorporate the supplier’s experience in diagnosing and treating varied forms of hair loss, the vary of accessible therapy choices, affected person opinions, value transparency, insurance coverage protection, and comfort of appointment scheduling.

Query 2: Are over-the-counter remedies adequate for addressing alopecia?

Over-the-counter remedies, equivalent to minoxidil, could also be helpful for sure forms of alopecia. Nevertheless, an expert analysis is beneficial to find out the underlying reason for hair loss and to make sure that the chosen therapy is suitable and efficient. Prescription-strength medicines and specialised procedures could also be obligatory in some circumstances.

Query 3: How lengthy does it usually take to see outcomes from alopecia therapy?

The timeline for seen outcomes varies relying on the kind of alopecia, the chosen therapy, and particular person response. Some remedies, equivalent to topical minoxidil, might require a number of months of constant use earlier than noticeable hair regrowth happens. Different interventions, like corticosteroid injections, might produce quicker outcomes. Reasonable expectations must be established with the treating supplier.

Query 4: What are the potential unwanted effects related to frequent alopecia remedies?

Frequent alopecia remedies will be related to unwanted effects, which range relying on the particular intervention. Topical minoxidil might trigger scalp irritation or undesirable hair progress in different areas. Finasteride, used for androgenetic alopecia, might result in sexual unwanted effects in some people. Corticosteroid injections may end up in pores and skin atrophy or telangiectasias. All potential unwanted effects must be mentioned with the supplier previous to initiating therapy.

Query 5: Is it potential to stop alopecia?

Some forms of alopecia, equivalent to androgenetic alopecia, have a genetic predisposition and will not be fully preventable. Nevertheless, sure way of life components, equivalent to sustaining a nutritious diet, managing stress, and avoiding harsh hair remedies, might assist reduce hair loss. Early intervention and immediate therapy of underlying medical circumstances can even play a task in stopping or slowing the development of sure types of alopecia.

Query 6: What function does scalp care play in alopecia administration?

Correct scalp care can contribute to general hair well being and will assist the effectiveness of alopecia remedies. Light cleaning, avoiding harsh chemical substances, and defending the scalp from solar publicity are essential issues. In some circumstances, specialised shampoos or topical remedies could also be beneficial to deal with particular scalp circumstances that may exacerbate hair loss.

In conclusion, the efficacy of “alopecia therapy close to me” hinges on knowledgeable decision-making, life like expectations, and adherence to the prescribed therapy plan. Consulting with a certified dermatologist and actively collaborating within the administration course of are important for attaining optimum outcomes.

The next part will delve into the combination of way of life modifications and complementary therapies right into a complete alopecia administration technique.

Important Ideas for Native Alopecia Administration

The next suggestions intention to optimize the effectiveness of geographically handy alopecia therapy. Adherence to those tips can considerably influence therapeutic outcomes.

Tip 1: Prioritize Early Analysis: Immediate analysis by a certified dermatologist upon noticing preliminary indicators of hair loss is essential. Early analysis facilitates well timed intervention and improves the probability of stopping irreversible hair follicle harm, significantly in circumstances of scarring alopecia.

Tip 2: Choose a Supplier with Related Experience: Be certain that the chosen supplier possesses demonstrable expertise in diagnosing and treating the particular kind of alopecia. Verification of board certification and specialised coaching is beneficial.

Tip 3: Adhere to the Prescribed Remedy Routine: Constant adherence to the prescribed therapy plan is paramount. Deviations from the beneficial dosage or frequency can compromise therapy efficacy. Any considerations relating to unwanted effects or therapy effectiveness must be promptly communicated to the supplier.

Tip 4: Handle Stress Ranges: Stress can exacerbate sure forms of alopecia. Incorporating stress-reduction strategies, equivalent to mindfulness meditation, yoga, or common train, can contribute to general well-being and probably enhance therapy outcomes.

Tip 5: Keep a Balanced Weight loss program: Dietary deficiencies can negatively influence hair well being. A well-balanced food regimen wealthy in nutritional vitamins, minerals, and protein is crucial. Session with a registered dietitian could also be helpful in figuring out and addressing particular dietary wants.

Tip 6: Shield the Scalp from Solar Publicity: Extended publicity to daylight can harm the scalp and exacerbate hair loss. Use sunscreen, put on a hat, or search shade throughout peak solar hours.

Tip 7: Train Warning with Hair Styling Practices: Harsh hair styling practices, equivalent to tight braiding, extreme warmth styling, or chemical remedies, can harm hair follicles and contribute to hair loss. Reduce using such practices and go for gentler options.

Tip 8: Search Psychological Help if Wanted: Hair loss can have a major emotional influence. Searching for assist from a therapist or counselor can assist people deal with the psychological challenges related to alopecia.

Implementing these suggestions, along side applicable medical therapy, can improve the effectiveness of native alopecia administration methods. Prioritizing early analysis, choosing a certified supplier, and adhering to the prescribed therapy plan are elementary for attaining optimum outcomes.

The next part will summarize the important thing takeaways from this text and supply concluding remarks.

Conclusion

The previous exploration of “alopecia therapy close to me” has underscored the multi-faceted issues essential for efficient administration. Geographical proximity is merely one facet; equally essential are the supply of certified specialists, numerous therapy choices, correct diagnostic capabilities, clear prices, handy appointments, sturdy post-treatment assist, constructive affected person opinions, and complete insurance coverage protection. The absence of any of those components can considerably diminish the worth of localized therapy.

People experiencing hair loss are inspired to prioritize complete analysis and individualized therapy plans. The seek for geographically handy care must be coupled with a diligent evaluation of the supplier’s experience and the accessibility of obligatory sources. In the end, knowledgeable decision-making is paramount for attaining optimum outcomes and mitigating the doubtless distressing results of alopecia.