Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia: Recognizing & Stopping It
Frontal fibrosing alopecia (FFA) is a type of scarring alopecia that selectively affects the frontotemporal hairline.
First described by Kossard in 1994, it is considered a variant of lichen planopilaris and requires an accurate dermatologic trichology evaluation for proper diagnosis and management.
Clinical Presentation of Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia
Frontal fibrosing alopecia appears as a band-like area of scarring hair loss along the frontal, temporal, and parietal regions.
The occipital area is rarely affected. The scalp in the affected zone looks smoother and paler than the forehead skin, lacking signs of photoaging.
Due to skin atrophy, temporal veins often appear more prominent.
Typical signs include:
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Loss of vellus and intermediate hairs along the new hairline
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Perifollicular hyperkeratosis sometimes associated with redness
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Gradual recession of the frontal hairline, which may extend up to 9–10 cm from the glabella
Associated Symptoms
In 50–75% of patients, partial or complete eyebrow loss occurs.
Some may also experience alopecia of the limbs, often unnoticed.
In certain women, small papules on the face can develop due to inflammation involving vellus hair follicles.
Who Is Most Affected by Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia
Frontal fibrosing alopecia predominantly affects postmenopausal women, and its incidence is increasing worldwide.
The fact that it occurs mostly in women suggests a possible link with hormonal factors or chemical substances commonly used in cosmetics, although current studies have not confirmed a single cause.
When to See a Dermatologist and Trichologist
If you notice:
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A progressive recession of your hairline
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Thinning or loss of eyebrows
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Lack of improvement despite previous treatments
…it is important to schedule a dermatologic trichology consultation.
An experienced dermatologist can:
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Identify the disease early
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Evaluate inflammation and disease activity
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Prescribe targeted therapies to stop the progression of hair loss
Request a consultation with Dr. Fabrizio Presta
Stay Informed
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Trichology consultation with digital trichoscopy in Verona
At our medical clinic, you can book a trichology consultation in Verona with Dr. Fabrizio Presta. During the consultation, an innovative examination is performed: digital trichoscopy with videodermatoscope.
Thanks to the latest-generation technology, Fotofinder Universe 3, this device allows us to:
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Precisely assess the condition of the hair follicles
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Record detailed images of the scalp
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Monitor the progression of hair loss over time
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Produce the RFT (Trichological Photographic Report): a photographic documentation delivered to the patient, useful for tracking progress during therapy
Learn more about the main hair diseases
Find out more about the different types of alopecia and available treatments:
