Alopecia Areata Support Association
(Vic), Inc.
0017772V
Support services since 1980
© Alopecia Areata Support Association (Vic) Inc | Site updated January 17th, 2012 | Disclaimer | Designed by Free CSS Templates
TREATMENTS (cont.)
D.C.P TREATMENT
DCP is a chemical (dicyclopropylpropenone), which rapidly produces skin sensitivity.
In some people with severe alopecia, continued applications of DCP (enough to produce
a continuing rash or irritation) can result in regrowth of hair. This method is not
advisable for less severe cases, and does not always work-
NEW 
Skin and Cancer Foundation brochure
This brochure explains how the
DCP treatment is conducted
at the Foundation’s Hair Clinics in Carlton (3Mb pdf download)
P.U.V.A. TREATMENT
The success of using photosensitizing "psoralens" with ultraviolet light in the A
range (P.U.V.A.) in other skin conditions has suggested it could be used in alopecia
areata. There have been some encouraging reports, but long term studies have yet
to showwhat success this treatment will have, and who should be treated by this method.
WIGS
For children and adults with severe alopecia, wearing a wig may become the best "treatment".
Wigs do not stop hair from regrowing and cannot make the problem worse. Go to our
‘Resources’ page for information about rebates for wig purchases through the State
wide Equipment Program.
TREATMENT OF ANXIETY AND DEPRESSION
This is an important part of treatment when people with alopecia are very stressed
or are very upset by the problem. Many people find that seeing a psychologist or
counsellor helps them to develop improved coping strategies. Medicare rebates are
available for a number of sessions with approved professionals (See the Australian
Psychological Society website) Doctors differ in their opinion about using sedatives
or mild tranquilizers for alopecia sufferers who are obviously affected by stress
and problems.
REGAINE (TOPICAL MINOXIDIL)
Minoxidil was first used in tablet form for the treatment of high blood pressure.
Hair growth was observed as a side effect in patients taking the preparation for
this condition. Tests were then carried out to see if monoxidil could be applied
to the scalp, as a topical (liquid) preparation. Clinical trials involving thousands
of men established the efficiency of Regaine® (topical minoxidil) in treating alopecia
androgenetica (male pattern baldness) for a percentage of men. Regaine® is currently
indicated for the treatment of male pattern baldness. Those most likely to respond
include men who are balding on the crown rather than temples, and who have been balding
for less than ten years. In addition, there have been reports of Regaine's® effectiveness
for alopecia areata.
Regaine® takes 4-