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Updated: Jul 4, 2026
06:41
A New Technique for Quantitative Analysis of Hair Loss in Mice Using Grayscale Analysis
Published on: March 9, 2015
Hypnotic approaches for alopecia areata.
Ria Willemsen1, Johan Vanderlinden
1Department of Dermatology, Academic Hospital UZ Brussel, Brussels, Belgium. riawil@scarlet.be
Summary
Hypnotherapy may help hair regrowth in alopecia areata (AA), an autoimmune condition. Patients receiving hypnosis also reported reduced anxiety and depression, improving overall well-being.
Area of Science:
- Psychoneuroimmunology
- Dermatology
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Alopecia areata (AA) is an autoimmune disorder causing scalp hair loss, often exacerbated by stress.
- Limited research exists on hypnotherapy's efficacy for treating AA.
- This study investigated hypnotherapy in patients with extensive AA resistant to conventional treatments.
Observation:
- Twenty-eight patients with severe alopecia areata participated in the study.
- A hypnotherapeutic approach combining symptom-oriented suggestions and self-esteem enhancement was employed.
- The study was conducted at the Academic Hospital UZ Brussel in Brussels, Belgium.
Findings:
- Significant hair regrowth was observed in 12 out of 21 patients, including four with total scalp hair loss.
- All patients experienced a notable reduction in anxiety and depression scores.
- Hypnotherapy demonstrated positive effects on both hair growth and psychological well-being.
Implications:
- Hypnotherapy shows promise as an adjunctive treatment for alopecia areata.
- The findings suggest a potential role for psychological interventions in managing autoimmune skin conditions.
- Further research is warranted to elucidate the mechanisms underlying hypnotherapy's effects in AA.
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