JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Alopecia areata (AA) is an autoimmune, hair loss–inducing condition affecting individuals of all genders and ethnic backgrounds worldwide. As social media platforms and AI chatbots increasingly influence patient behavior, individuals with AA may turn to these sources for treatment guidance.

Objective:

This study evaluates the accuracy of AA-related information on social media and assesses whether patients are exposed to misinformation that could hinder appropriate care. Influencers may recommend treatments applicable to alopecia broadly or promote therapies lacking medical benefit.

Methods:

YouTube and TikTok were searched using the hashtags #alopecia and #alopeciatreatment. Posts were selected based on hashtag relevance. Videos were categorized using standard AA treatment guidelines into: (1) Accurate and Evidence-Based (aligned with guideline-supported treatments), (2) Varied and Not Evidence-Based (unverified treatments without clear misinformation), (3) Misinformed and/or False (inaccurate or misleading claims), or (4) Other (unrelated to alopecia management).

Results:

Of 120 YouTube posts, 19.1% were Accurate and Evidence-Based, 7.5% Varied and Not Evidence-Based, and 73.3% Other; none were classified as Misinformed or False. Of 269 TikTok posts, 15.9% were Accurate and Evidence-Based, 5.6% Varied and Not Evidence-Based, 1.1% Misinformed or False, and 77.3% Other. The majority of applicable videos recommending AA treatment aligned with standard, data-backed guidelines.

Conclusions:

AA patients are frequently exposed to generalized alopecia content on social media, which may not consistently offer condition-specific guidance. Healthcare professionals should help ensure that social media platforms and AI tools are leveraged to promote accurate education and proactively combat misinformation surrounding AA treatment.