Frontal Fibrosing
Alopecia
A scarring alopecia that causes permanent hair loss at the front and sides of the hairline. Early diagnosis is critical — it can be stopped, but not reversed once follicles have scarred.
What is Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia?
Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia (FFA) is a specific type of scarring hair loss where the hair follicles are destroyed, resulting in permanent hair loss. It typically presents as a receding hairline at the front and sides of the scalp, and may also affect eyebrows and body hair.
This condition is not contagious. Early diagnosis is everything — once a follicle scars, it can no longer grow hair.
Where does it develop?
- Scalp — receding hairline beginning at the front and temples
- Eyebrows — often the very first sign, preceding scalp hair loss
- Face, arms, legs and pubic area in more extensive cases
Signs and symptoms
- Itchy or painful scalp along the hairline
- Rash along the hairline, face or scalp
- Loss of eyebrows — may precede scalp hair loss and worsens over time
- Receding hairline with smooth, pale, scarred skin where hair once grew
- Small raised bumps on the face
- Hair loss spreading on the scalp, arms or legs
What causes it?
FFA is believed to be an autoimmune condition where the body attacks its own hair follicles. When this occurs, follicles scar over and can no longer produce hair. The exact trigger remains unknown to specialists worldwide.
Who is at higher risk?
- Women who are in or past menopause
- Those with a close blood relative with FFA
- People living with Rosacea, thyroid disease, or type 2 diabetes
Can it be reversed?
If caught early, medical treatment can stop further progression and some regrowth may occur. Once follicles have fully scarred, a hair transplant can restore hair in the affected areas by transplanting healthy follicles into the scarred zones.