Ashley Tisdale Changed Her Haircare Routine After Alopecia Diagnosis
Ashley Tisdale, 39, experienced a significant change in her approach to haircare following her diagnosis of alopecia areata in her mid-20s. This condition became apparent when she spotted a bald spot on her hairline during a colorist appointment. Since then, she has made conscious efforts to pamper her hair and scalp.
In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Tisdale revealed, "I've started to be way nicer to my hair and my scalp." She went on to discuss her past hair habits, which included vibrant colors, dying, and bleaching. Since her diagnosis, she has not returned to bright blonde styles and has also given up extensions for better hair health.
"I couldn’t take it for granted," Tisdale explained her new perspective. "So I treat my hair better and not stress it out so much."
Tisdale candidly shared, "The hardest part about alopecia areata is that there is really no cure." For this autoimmune disease, uncertainty accompanies the diagnosis. Patients often feel anxious, wondering about flare-ups and the extent they could affect their daily lives. "When you get diagnosed, you might ask yourself, 'Well, what do I do now?'"
She further added that flare-ups have been linked to high stress. "If I see one of the bald spots, I realize I need to calm down," she mentioned, noting her flare-ups tend to occur every few years during periods of high physical and emotional stress.
Tisdale has teamed up with Pfizer and Litfulo, an FDA-approved treatment for individuals 12 and older who suffer from severe alopecia areata. Although she does not actively take this medication, she views the partnership positively. Tisdale stressed the importance of educating others about available options after diagnosis.
She reflected on her own experience, explaining, "When I was diagnosed, I didn’t know any options and what to do." Navigating alopecia can feel overwhelming, especially for young individuals. "Hair is kind of everything," she said. However, she encourages those affected, "To know that you’re not alone and there are options is great.
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