Hair Loss and Lupus

Hair loss, along with sores and rashes, is a common symptom of lupus. You may start to notice that more hair falls out when you’re brushing or washing it. This article will explain why hair loss occurs in lupus patients, the long-term effects, and how to treat it.

*Disclaimer:

The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. It should not be used as a substitute for professional diagnosis, treatment, or advice from a qualified healthcare provider. Reliance on any information provided in this article is solely at your own risk.

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Studies show that over 50% of lupus patients develop some level of hair loss. This is often because lupus will attack the healthy tissue on the scalp and damage the hair follicles. However, certain treatments and medications for lupus, such as immunosuppressives and steroids, may also contribute to hair loss.

The symptoms of lupus-induced hair loss you should look out for include:

• Thinning of hair all across your head

• Brittle and weak hair that breaks easily

• Increased shedding and clumps of hair falling out

• Loss of volume

• Increasingly visible patches of scalp

Of course, your hair won’t suddenly lose volume overnight. Hair damage will begin accumulating and developing progressively the longer the attacks on your scalp remain unchecked. Thus, it’s important that you recognize the early signs of hair loss when dealing with lupus, as the sooner you spot it, the better chances you have of treating it and reversing the effects.

A main concern of most lupus patients is whether their hair will grow back. This is an understandable concern, however, much like other facets of lupus, the answer is that the recovery process will depend from person to person.

If you were able to catch the signs on time, seek help, and receive the appropriate treatment, then regrowth is possible. However, if you have scarring and extensive hair loss that has gone untreated for an extended period of time, then the loss could be permanent.

There are other factors at play too, such as:

• Age

• Genetics

• Disease severity

• Extent of hair loss and how quickly you began treatment

Additionally, if your hair loss was caused by medications, then hair loss could cease once you stop or switch treatments. However, always speak to a doctor before adjusting your treatment plan.

Your doctor may discuss medication that can counter the effects of hair loss, such as finasteride and dutasteride, to mitigate the effects of hormones that damage the roots of your hair. If that doesn’t help, more advanced treatments can include low-level laser devices and hair transplants.

Additionally, there are lifestyle measures you can take in your personal life that can also help manage the effects of hair loss, such as:

• Choosing gentle hair products, like baby shampoo

• Avoiding heat treatments such as hot rollers, curling irons, and hot combs

• Wearing your hair loose instead of tying it tight and pulling on your scalp

• Using softer accessories like scrunchies over hair ties

• Sleeping with a silk pillowcase

• Massaging your scalp

• Avoiding permanent dyes with harsh chemicals

In general, use a gentle and soft touch with your scalp, and your hair loss might see improvement.

Hair loss is a common symptom in lupus that can lead to your hair thinning or coming out in clumps. It’s important you catch the symptoms as soon as possible to increase your chances of regrowth. To treat the damage, be kind to your scalp and discuss with your doctor whether you should halt any medications you suspect may be causing the loss.

Lupus and hair loss | Lupus Foundation of America

How To Spot And Treat Hair Loss From Lupus | The Independent Pharmacy

Tips for Hair Loss From Lupus | WebMD