Hi Claire , I had AA five years ago . I lost over 60% of my hair . I was first given steriod cream which only worked on the front of my head . The back of my head was bald and shiny , my dermatologist didn't hold much hope for my hair returning but still went ahead with the injections . After 9 months of treatment my hair came back . It was painfull and my side affects were only on the day of the injections . I was really fortunate that it worked for me . Hope this helps Janet X X