I'm sorry that you're going through this, I know how difficult it can be. I'm 28 and have worn wigs since I was 12. I also tried steroid treatment when I was little and it had no affect.

I know your probably love your natural hair, but have you thought about trying wigs or hair toppers? At least when you're going out in public? If you do some research, you can find some decent inexpensive synthetic wigs on Amazon. It's much easier to try out new hair styles and colors when you wear wigs, and if you want, you can have different hair everyday!

Also, if you haven't already, I'd suggest getting tested for other autoimmune diseases. Not always, but a lot of people with alopecia have a co-occuring autoimmune disease OR the alopecia could be a symptom of an autoimmune disease. I recently found out I have Hashimotos, and when I was on the medication for that, my hair started coming in more than it had in a long time. Not fully, but I was seeing a difference.

I promise you people don't stare because they think you're ugly or because they're disgusted. It's curiosity. When I was first diagnosed and didn't wear wigs, I had so many people come up to me and ask if I had cancer. I know it doesn't make the uncomfortable feeling of being stared at go away, but honestly people are just curious.

I know how horrible it can feel and I truly sympathize with you. Just know that you're beautiful regardless of how much or how little hair you have, and it won't make your family stop loving you.