Rapid Regrowth Tops Treatment Goals for Alopecia Areata: Survey

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Nearly 90% of clinicians have prescribed JAK inhibitors for AA, with high satisfaction reported in moderate-to-severe cases, according to a new survey. 

• Rapid and nearly complete hair regrowth ranked as the most important treatment goal among providers.

• Fewer than half of clinicians believe patients are aware of JAK inhibitor options.

Results from a new national survey presented at the 2026 Winter Clinical Dermatology Hawaii reveals that most US clinicians prioritize rapid and nearly complete hair regrowth, with strong satisfaction reported for Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor therapies.

The cross-sectional survey, conducted in May 2025, included responses from 225 US-based clinicians treating AA, including dermatologists, advanced practice providers, and primary care physicians. Almost 90% reported prescribing oral JAK inhibitors, and an average of 21.5% of their patients were actively using them.

More than 80% of clinicians managing moderate-to-severe AA noted their patients were satisfied with JAK inhibitor treatment. However, fewer than half of clinicians believed their patients were even “somewhat aware” of JAK inhibitors options, indicating a critical need for improved education and shared decision-making.

Treatment goals reflected this emphasis on efficacy: clinicians ranked “nearly complete regrowth as quickly as possible” as the top priority when selecting therapy. Side effect profile and treatment duration were also important considerations, though they ranked behind hair regrowth in urgency. Clinicians also reported that AA has a significant psychosocial impact on quality of life. Emotional distress was rated higher in patients with severe disease, with an average QoL interference score of 8.3 out of 10, vs. 7.3 in moderate cases.

“Clinicians prioritize rapid and nearly complete hair regrowth in AA treatment and report high patient satisfaction with oral JAK inhibitors,” the authors wrote. “Despite this, only half believe their patients are aware of JAK inhibitor options, highlighting an opportunity for improved patient education and shared decision-making."

Source: Mesinkosvska N, et al. Landmark survey of clinician perspectives, preferences, and challenges in the care of alopecia areata. Presented at: 2026 Winter Clinical Hawaii, January 16-21, Maui.