Alopecia areata is a common autoimmune disorder characterized by the sudden onset of hair loss in defined patches, typically on the scalp, but it can also affect other areas of the body. The immune system mistakenly targets hair follicles, leading to their shrinkage and temporary cessation of hair growth. This condition can affect individuals of any age, gender, or ethnicity, and its exact cause remains elusive. While the hair loss itself is not physically harmful, it can have significant emotional and psychological impacts on those affected.