Manchester Studio - Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia

The characteristics of FFA

FFA, along with many other auto-immune disorders, appears to be becoming increasingly common in Western society, and Manchester seems to be no exception to this.

The condition is characterised by inflamation at the hairline at the front and sides, which causes them to gradually recede, leaving behind scar tissue, (the disease is sometimes called scarring alopecia). The hair follicles within this scarring are destroyed and incapable of regrowth, and this can be difficult to accept and adjust to. Sometimes the condition seems to burn itself out but there is no telling when that might happen or how far the hairline may have receded before this occurs. In extreme cases the whole of the front half of the head can be affected.

It was only in the mid-1990s that FFA was recognised as a separate condition, and medical research into it is still barely beyond its outset. Despite this we do encourage you to see your doctor - particularly if you are at the early stages of this condition - as treatment (usually steroids) can slow down the progression of the disease. However you should be aware that there is no cure and it cannot be reversed.

An example of the life changing hair transformations we offer our lovely clients!

How we can help conceal FFA

Where the hairline has receded the only effective alternative to a full wig is a variation on our Intralace System incorporating the Natural Hair Line Parting and Sides. The main system can usually be integrated with your own hair unless there is extensive loss - in which case our Freewear system may be employed - while the Parting and Sides are fixed in place using a medical grade tape where the skin is bare. The results are a very natural appearance and are semi-permanent. You can see an example of this in Jenny's Story.

Our Manchester staff, under the guidance of two of our most experienced managers, are thoroughly trained and experienced in assessing and creating custom solutions and styles for women with FFA. They'll also instruct you in how to care for your hair system and how to re-apply the taped sections when this becomes necessary.