Generally speaking, the treatment options available to children under the age of 18 are limited. In November 2023, Health Canada approved Pfizer’s medication ritlecitinib (Litfulo®). It is the first and only approved treatment for adolescents aged 12 years and up with severe alopecia areata.

Other options for children include topical corticosteroids, topical calcineurin inhibitors, and corticosteroid injections. Some dermatologists, depending on their experience and other clinical factors, may discuss additional treatment options including oral corticosteroids, oral immunosuppressants, or topical allergen treatment.