Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia (FFA)

When Your Hairline Starts Playing Hard to Get

If you’ve noticed your hairline creeping back like it’s trying to sneak out the door, you might be dealing with Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia (FFA). This form of scarring alopecia tends to pick on women, especially after menopause, and it’s about as subtle as a bull in a china shop.

What Is Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia?

FFA is a scarring condition that affects the front and sides of the scalp, leading to a receding hairline. It’s sneaky, slow-moving, and often leaves the affected areas smooth and shiny because the follicles have scarred over. It can also affect your eyebrows (as if the hairline drama wasn’t enough).

What Causes It?

The exact cause of FFA is still a bit of a mystery, but here are the usual suspects:

• Hormones: FFA is most common in postmenopausal women, so hormones might play a role.

• Autoimmune Factors: Like other scarring alopecias, FFA involves your immune system attacking your hair follicles.

• Environmental Triggers: Some research suggests sunscreen or other topical products might be linked.

Signs of Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia

• Receding hairline, often with smooth, scarred skin.

• Thinning or loss of eyebrows.

• Redness or irritation around the hairline.

• In some cases, itching or tenderness on the scalp.

What Can You Do About It?

• See a Specialist: Early intervention is key, so visit a dermatologist or trichologist for a diagnosis.

• Medications: Anti-inflammatory drugs, like corticosteroids or hydroxychloroquine, can help slow the progression.

• Hair Preservation: Protect the remaining hair by avoiding tight hairstyles and harsh chemicals.

• Eyebrow Solutions: Microblading or eyebrow pencils can help fill in thinning brows while you manage the condition.

A Little Southern Wisdom

Now listen, darlin’, I know losing your hairline feels personal, but don’t let it shake your confidence. You’re still you—strong, beautiful, and full of grace. Whether it’s wigs, treatments, or rocking your natural look, you’ve got options to keep you feeling like the fabulous person you are.

Courtesy of DermNet