Alopecia Areata of the Eyebrows and Beard in a 29-Year-Old Male

Case Report – Reena Jogi, MD | Hair Loss Specialist in Katy & Houston, Texas

Hair loss affecting the eyebrows and beard can be especially distressing for men. At Reena Jogi, MD, we evaluate and treat autoimmune and inflammatory causes of hair loss for patients in Katy, Texas and Houston, Texas.

This case highlights a 29-year-old male diagnosed with alopecia areata involving the eyebrows and beard, after limited improvement with prior therapy.

Patient Case Overview

Chief Complaint: Hair loss of eyebrows and beard
Age: 29-year-old male
Duration: 2 years
Severity: Moderate, gradual onset

The patient presented as a new patient for evaluation of patchy hair loss affecting both eyebrows and beard area. He reported a history of hypothyroidism, raising concern about a possible autoimmune connection.

Previous Treatment:

  • Topical tofacitinib cream for 2 months (prescribed by outside dermatologist)

  • Minimal improvement

He denied scalp involvement and had not received intralesional injections previously.

Clinical Examination

A comprehensive examination was performed including:

  • Scalp and hair inspection

  • Eyebrows

  • Beard area

  • Dermatoscopic evaluation

Findings:

Patchy, non-scarring hair loss involving:

  • Left lateral eyebrow

  • Right lateral eyebrow

  • Left superior lateral buccal cheek (beard region)

  • Right superior lateral buccal cheek

No scarring or permanent follicle damage was noted.

Diagnosis: Alopecia Areata

Based on clinical presentation and dermatoscopic findings, the diagnosis favored Alopecia Areata, an autoimmune condition causing patchy hair loss.

What is Alopecia Areata?

Alopecia areata is:

  • An autoimmune disease

  • Characterized by sudden or gradual patchy hair loss

  • Can affect scalp, eyebrows, beard, or body hair

  • Often associated with other autoimmune conditions such as thyroid disease

In this patient’s case, his history of hypothyroidism may increase his predisposition.

Treatment Options for Eyebrow and Beard Alopecia in Katy, TX

We discussed several evidence-based treatment options, including:

  • Intralesional Kenalog (ILK) steroid injections

  • Topical corticosteroids

  • Topical minoxidil

  • Anthralin

  • Systemic therapies in extensive cases

After reviewing risks, benefits, and expected outcomes, the patient elected to proceed with:

✔ Intralesional Kenalog (ILK) Injections

Scheduled to begin in 1 week.

Why ILK Injections?

Intralesional steroid injections are considered first-line therapy for localized alopecia areata affecting the eyebrows and beard.

Benefits:

  • Directly reduces autoimmune inflammation around hair follicles

  • Stimulates regrowth in affected patches

  • High response rate in localized disease

Expectations:

  • Hair regrowth often begins within 4–8 weeks

  • Multiple treatments may be required

  • Condition can recur

Patient Counseling Provided

The patient was counseled that:

  • Alopecia areata is autoimmune in nature

  • It responds well to treatment but may relapse

  • Early treatment improves outcomes

  • Monitoring thyroid function is important

He verbalized understanding and will return for ILK injection #1 in one week.

When to See a Hair Loss Specialist in Houston or Katy, Texas

If you notice:

  • Patchy eyebrow hair loss

  • Beard thinning in circular patches

  • Sudden hair loss in localized areas

  • History of autoimmune conditions

Early evaluation by a board-certified dermatologist in Katy or Houston, TX is recommended.

Alopecia Areata Treatment in Katy & Houston – Reena Jogi, MD

At our clinic, we specialize in diagnosing and treating:

  • Alopecia areata

  • Eyebrow hair loss

  • Beard alopecia

  • Scalp hair loss

  • Autoimmune-related hair conditions

We provide advanced, personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient.

If you are experiencing patchy eyebrow or beard hair loss in Katy, Texas or Houston, Texas, schedule a consultation today.

Previous
Previous

Female Hair Loss in Perimenopause: Comprehensive Evaluation and Treatment in Katy and Houston, Texas

Next
Next

Rosacea vs. Adult Acne: A Case Report from Katy & Houston, Texas