Colorado Cosmetology Written Practice Exam

What is the term for hair loss that occurs in a round or oval patch and the immune system attacks hair follicles?

1. Androgenic alopecia

2. Alopecia areata

3. Postpartum alopecia

4. Traction alopecia

The correct answer is: Alopecia areata

The correct answer is "Alopecia areata," which refers specifically to a type of hair loss characterized by the sudden appearance of one or more round or oval patches of hair loss. This condition occurs when the immune system mistakenly targets the hair follicles, leading to the disruption of the hair growth cycle. The exact cause of alopecia areata is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve genetic factors and an autoimmune response. Androgenic alopecia, often referred to as male or female pattern baldness, typically presents as a gradual thinning of hair rather than patchy loss and is influenced by hormonal and genetic factors. Postpartum alopecia is related to hormonal changes after childbirth and usually manifests as overall thinning, rather than patchy bald spots. Traction alopecia is caused by continual tension or pulling on the hair, resulting in hair loss at the sites of stress, rather than localized patches due to immune system activity.