Steroids for hair loss?

• Jada Pinkett-Smith treats her alopecia with steroids.
• Often, hair loss in circular patterns is caused by an autoimmune reaction that leads to hair loss.
• Steroid acne and impairment of the kidneys, liver and gastrointestinal tract are common side effects that can occur when taking steroids.
• The use of steroids is therefore not without risks and alternatives such as the use of thiocyanate should be considered.

It's every woman's nightmare: Jada Pinkett-Smith, 46, is losing her hair. The US actress said on Instagram that she suddenly had several clumps of hair in her hand while showering. BILD reports that the wife of Hollywood superstar Will Smith is using steroids to combat her hair loss and asks: Is this really beneficial or dangerous?

Side effects cannot be ruled out

Since Jada Pinkett-Smith treats her hair loss with steroids, it's very likely that she suffers from alopecia areata . The cause of alopecia areata is thought to be an autoimmune reaction, when the body's immune system attacks its own hair follicles. To stop the inflammation, the hair is shed. Systemic steroids and cyclosporines are intended to suppress the hair shedding reaction, but they have significant side effects.

BILD quotes renowned hair specialist Dr. Bruce Reith as saying that when taking systemic steroids, side effects such as steroid acne and impairment of the kidneys, liver, and gastrointestinal tract can be expected. Furthermore, steroids weaken the immune system, making one more susceptible to all kinds of infectious diseases. Other possible complaints include gum growth, high blood pressure, and edema. However, steroid treatment is justifiable if used for a limited period of time. 

Are there alternatives?

BILD refers to the active ingredient thiocyanate . "This is a molecule produced naturally in the body that activates cell division and growth processes in the body and, above all, has a preventative effect... In the context of cancer research, it was discovered by chance that the substance [thiocyanate] can stimulate new growth in the hair roots and significantly reduce hair loss*."