Alopecia areata or hair loss occurs in one in 1,000 people. If medical reasons for the hair loss are ruled out, opinion and hypothesis point towards autoimmunity and stress as possible causes. Dealing with the gradual or sudden loss of head hair, eyebrows, eyelashes, nasal, ear and body hair poses unique challenges for those it affects. Autoimmune-associated alopecia areata has no age boundaries and affects children, men and women equally. The dramatic change in appearance can result in psychological trauma, loss in confidence, bullying, low self-esteem and relationship difficulties.