• Stem cell-based therapies, particularly mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), show promise in treating alopecia areata by promoting hair regrowth through immunomodulation and paracrine effects.
• The breakdown of hair follicle immune privilege is a central mechanism in AA pathogenesis, and stem cells may help restore this privilege.
• Clinical studies have demonstrated significant efficacy of stem cell-based treatments in AA patients, but long-term safety and efficacy require further investigation.
• Cell-free strategies such as conditioned media and exosomes derived from stem cells are emerging as potential therapeutic options for AA.