The present invention discloses compositions and methods for the prevention and treatment of skin and hair diseases, such as, for example, alopecia, psoriasis, and keloids. In one embodiment, the present invention discloses a method for preventing and treating hair loss by applying locally to a region lacking hair a p38.alpha. MAP kinase inhibitor. The p38.alpha. MAP kinase inhibitor is preferably formulated as a gel, ointment, spray or solution that can be applied topically, transdermally, or subcutaneously to the targeted region.