If you’re dealing with an itchy, flaky scalp and noticing more hairs than usual in your brush, you might be wondering if the two are connected. The short answer is yes, seborrheic dermatitis can indeed lead to hair loss. It can be a frustrating cycle—the more you itch, the more inflamed your scalp becomes, and the more hair seems to shed. But the good news is that this type of hair loss is often temporary and manageable once you get the underlying inflammation under control.
How Scalp Inflammation Affects Your Hair Follicles
Seborrheic dermatitis doesn’t directly destroy hair follicles. Instead, the hair loss happens as a side effect of the condition’s symptoms. The intense itching and scaling create an unhealthy environment for your hair to grow. When you constantly scratch, you physically damage the follicles. Furthermore, the buildup of scales and inflammation can disrupt the natural growth cycle of your hair, pushing more follicles into a resting phase, which leads to increased shedding when you wash or brush your hair.
Practical Steps to Soothe Your Scalp and Protect Your Hair
Managing the condition is the most effective way to stop the shedding and encourage regrowth. Start by using an over-the-counter medicated shampoo containing ingredients like ketoconazole, selenium sulfide, or pyrithione zinc. Use these as directed, often a few times a week, and let the lather sit on your scalp for a few minutes before rinsing. It’s also crucial to resist the urge to scratch. Scratching may offer momentary relief but it significantly worsens inflammation and hair breakage.
When to See a Doctor About Your Hair and Scalp
If you’ve tried over-the-counter solutions for a few weeks without success, or if the hair loss is significant, it’s a good idea to consult a dermatologist. They can provide a definitive diagnosis and may prescribe stronger topical treatments, such as corticosteroid lotions, to quickly reduce inflammation. A doctor can also confirm that the hair loss isn’t being caused by another, unrelated condition, giving you peace of mind and a clear path forward.
While seeing hair in the drain can be alarming, remember that hair loss from seborrheic dermatitis is typically reversible. By focusing on calming the inflammation and treating the root cause of the flaking and itching, you create the healthy environment your hair needs to grow back strong.