Two research projects supported by the National Alopecia Areata Foundation (NAAF) were presented at the 2026 European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology (EADV) Congress (Sept. 28 – Oct. 3) addressing important questions about JAK inhibitor treatment and pediatric hair loss. New findings from NAAF’s inaugural (2025) VOICES-AA (Values, Outcomes, and Insights from Community Experiences) study explored patient use of and satisfaction with JAK inhibitors, as well as barriers to treatment. Among 852 survey participants, 35.4% reported currently using a JAK inhibitor. People using JAK inhibitors reported higher treatment satisfaction, with satisfaction highest among those who had been on treatment for seven to 12 months. Among people not using a JAK inhibitor, leading barriers included concerns about side effects (45%), lack of knowledge about the treatments (35%), and not having a healthcare provider recommend one (29%). The findings point to opportunities for greater patient and provider education about JAK inhibitors. View the poster presented at EADV A second NAAF-supported project focused on low-dose oral minoxidil in children younger than 12 with hair loss (including but not limited to alopecia areata). An international group of experts developed consensus recommendations to give clinicians practical guidance on patient selection, dosing, monitoring and counseling. The consensus statement provides an expert-informed framework for clinicians considering this off-label treatment in younger patients. Lead author Matt Akiska, MD, MPH, is a two-time NAAF Student Internship Award recipient. Learn more about the treatment recommendations for minoxidil in pediatric patients Together, these projects demonstrate how NAAF-supported research is helping address practical questions that matter to our community of patients, families and healthcare providers. Learn more about industry partners’ research presented at EADV 2026
