Novato, CA, Sept. 03, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The first U.S. expert consensus treatment recommendations for adults with severe alopecia areata have been published in JAMA Dermatology. Developed by leading dermatologists in partnership with the National Alopecia Areata Foundation® (NAAF®) and the American Hair Research Society (AHRS), the recommendations establish a clear, evidence-based framework for treating this complex autoimmune disease.
“These recommendations represent an important step forward in bringing clarity and consistency to the care of patients with severe alopecia areata,” said Arash Mostaghimi, MD, MPA, MPH, Vice Chair of Clinical Trials and Innovation, Brigham and Women’s Hospital Department of Dermatology, member of NAAF’s Scientific and Medical Advisory Task Force, and chair of the committee who established the consensus recommendations. “For the first time, patients, clinicians, and insurers have clear, expert-driven recommendations that reflect both the latest scientific evidence and the real-world impact of this disease on patients’ lives.”
Alopecia areata affects nearly 7 million people in the U.S. and can result in partial or complete hair loss on the scalp and body. While FDA-approved treatments have only recently become available, the absence of formal treatment guidance has created variability in care and denials in insurance coverage.
“Alopecia areata is not just about hair loss,” said George Gondo, NAAF’s Chief Mission Officer. “This expert consensus statement recognizes the broader impact of the disease, including effects on emotional well-being, and emphasizes the importance of treating the whole patient.”
The expert panel recommends FDA-approved oral Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors as first-line (primary) treatment for adults with severe alopecia areata, marking a major shift from previous approaches that often relied on less effective therapies. They also provide clear direction on treatment duration, switching therapies when needed, and moving away from older medications with limited evidence of effectiveness.
The recommendations define severity of disease using the Alopecia Areata Severity Scale, recognizing that alopecia areata is not solely about scalp hair loss. Developed in 2022, the Alopecia Areata Severity Scale considers percentage of scalp hair loss, as well as eyebrow and eyelash loss, body hair loss, treatment response, and the emotional and psychosocial impact on the patient. This broader definition acknowledges the significant and often overlooked burden of the disease.
Additionally, the treatment recommendations formally emphasize supportive care, including access to wigs (cranial prostheses) and camouflage options, mental health support, and the emotional and social impact of the disease. Including supportive measures reinforces that alopecia areata is not a cosmetic condition, but a chronic, autoimmune disease with meaningful effects on quality of life.
“For patients, this brings clarity and validation,” said Gondo. “It affirms that their experience is real, complex, and deserving of comprehensive care.”
Patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers can learn more about these recommendations at naaf.org/treatment-recs.
About NAAF
The National Alopecia Areata Foundation (NAAF) drives research to find a cure and accessible treatments for alopecia areata, supports those impacted, and educates the public about the disease. Founded in 1981, NAAF is the largest alopecia areata patient advocacy organization in the world, connecting members of the alopecia areata community, including those living with the disease, family members and caregivers, healthcare providers, and researchers through its many programs. NAAF is recognized by the Internal Revenue Service as a 501(c)3 charitable organization and has achieved the highest rankings from charity watchdogs. For more information, please visit naaf.org, email info@naaf.org, or connect with NAAF on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, or X.
Jenna Smith National Alopecia Areata Foundation (614) 893-1288 jenna@naaf.org
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