Does seborrheic dermatitis cause hair loss? This is a common question among those affected by the condition, especially when scalp itching and flaking are accompanied by thinning hair.
While seborrheic dermatitis is primarily known for causing redness, irritation, and greasy scales on the scalp, it can also contribute to temporary hair shedding in some individuals.
Understanding the relationship between this chronic skin condition and hair health is essential for effective treatment and prevention.
In this guide, we’ll explore how seborrheic dermatitis affects the scalp, why it sometimes leads to hair loss, and what you can do to promote healing and regrowth.
What Is Seborrheic Dermatitis and How Does It Affect the Scalp?
Seborrheic dermatitis is a chronic, inflammatory skin condition that primarily affects areas rich in sebaceous (oil) glands, including the scalp. It’s characterized by red, scaly patches and greasy, yellowish flakes.
On the scalp, it can resemble stubborn dandruff, but it produces more inflammation and persistent symptoms.
The condition is associated with an overgrowth of Malassezia yeast, a normal component of the skin flora that triggers an immune response in susceptible individuals.
This response leads to skin irritation, excess oil production, and flaking. When seborrheic dermatitis affects the scalp, it can cause intense itching, inflammation, and in some cases, temporary hair thinning or shedding.
Flare-ups often follow cycles, worsening during stress, seasonal changes, or illness, and can vary in severity from mild scaling to thick crusting.
Seborrheic Dermatitis: Causes and Risk Factors
The exact cause of seborrheic dermatitis isn't fully understood, but it likely results from a combination of genetic, environmental, and biological factors. A major trigger is the overgrowth of Malassezia yeast on oily skin.
Risk factors include a weakened immune system, neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, and certain medications. Hormonal changes, stress, cold weather, and a family history of skin conditions can also contribute.
People with oily skin or those who produce excess sebum are more prone to flare-ups. While it can affect anyone, seborrheic dermatitis is especially common in infants (as cradle cap) and adults between the ages of 30 and 60.
Main Symptoms of Seborrheic Dermatitis
Symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis on the scalp typically include greasy or dry white-to-yellowish flakes, redness, a burning sensation, and itching. The affected skin may appear swollen or inflamed, and in severe cases, thick, crusty patches can form.
The itching can be intense, leading to scratching that worsens irritation and may even damage hair follicles. In some individuals, the condition can extend beyond the scalp to affect areas such as the eyebrows, sides of the nose, behind the ears, and upper chest.
Symptoms tend to worsen during periods of stress, fatigue, or cold and dry weather and often follow a chronic, relapsing pattern.
Differences Between Dandruff and Seborrheic Dermatitis
While dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis are related and share overlapping symptoms, they differ in severity and presentation.
Dandruff is a milder form of scalp flaking without significant redness or inflammation. Seborrheic dermatitis, on the other hand, involves visible inflammation, greasy scales, and more persistent symptoms.
Dandruff usually causes fine, white flakes, whereas seborrheic dermatitis may produce thicker, yellowish scales and broader patches of irritated skin.
Both are associated with Malassezia yeast, but seborrheic dermatitis tends to require more intensive and ongoing treatment.
While dandruff can often be managed with over-the-counter shampoos, seborrheic dermatitis may require stronger, prescription-grade treatments to get the inflammation under control. A dermatologist can help distinguish between the two and recommend appropriate care.
Does Seborrheic Dermatitis Cause Hair Loss?
Seborrheic dermatitis itself doesn’t directly cause permanent hair loss, but the inflammation and irritation it produces can disrupt the normal hair growth cycle.
Chronic itching often leads to frequent scratching, which can traumatize the scalp and weaken hair follicles. This can result in increased shedding or thinning, especially during active flare-ups.
Additionally, the buildup of scales and excess sebum can clog hair follicles, further impairing growth. Fortunately, in most cases, hair loss related to seborrheic dermatitis is temporary and reversible with proper treatment and scalp care.
How Inflammation and Itching Can Lead to Hair Loss
Inflammation is the body's natural response to irritation or injury, but the inflammatory response triggered by seborrheic dermatitis can interfere with the hair growth cycle, particularly the anagen (growth) phase.
Persistent inflammation stresses the follicles, potentially pushing hairs into the telogen (resting) phase prematurely, leading to telogen effluvium. Itching exacerbates the issue, as repeated scratching can physically damage the scalp and dislodge hair strands.
Over time, this trauma can inflame hair follicles and prolong shedding. If not managed, inflammation can also hinder nutrient delivery to follicles, further weakening them. Prompt treatment to reduce inflammation is key to preventing or minimizing hair loss.
When Hair Loss Is Most Likely To Happen
Hair loss from seborrheic dermatitis is most likely during active flare-ups when inflammation, flaking, and itching are at their peak. Triggers such as stress, illness, cold weather, or inconsistent scalp hygiene can exacerbate symptoms and increase the risk of shedding.
Individuals who delay treatment or frequently scratch the scalp are especially vulnerable to breakage and thinning. Hair loss is also more common when thick, crusted plaques build up and suffocate the follicles.
Is Hair Loss From Seborrheic Dermatitis Permanent?
In most cases, hair loss from seborrheic dermatitis is not permanent. Once the inflammation is treated and the scalp heals, the hair follicles can function normally again, and new hair can grow, assuming no underlying hair disorder is present.
However, if the seborrheic dermatitis is severe and left untreated for a long time, there is a risk of scarring on the scalp.
Scarring can damage the hair follicles and lead to permanent hair loss in those areas. That's why it's important to get seborrheic dermatitis under control as soon as possible.
Can Hair Grow Back After Treating Seborrheic Dermatitis?
Hair will usually grow back once seborrheic dermatitis is treated and the scalp inflammation subsides. As the scalp heals and returns to a healthy state, the hair follicles can resume their normal growth cycle.
Keep in mind that hair growth is a slow process. It can take several months to see significant regrowth, so patience is key.
In the meantime, there are things you can do to support healthy hair growth, such as using gentle hair care products, avoiding harsh treatments, and nourishing your body with a balanced diet.
Happy Head's dermatologist-formulated shampoo and conditioner are designed for sensitive scalps and can help strengthen hair as it regrows.
Signs That Hair Loss Might Be Due to Another Condition
If hair loss continues despite managing seborrheic dermatitis, another underlying condition may be at play. Signs include sudden or patchy hair loss, excessive shedding unrelated to flare-ups, or visible bald spots with minimal flaking or inflammation.
Hair that falls out in clumps, especially with scalp pain or redness, may suggest alopecia areata, psoriasis, or a fungal infection such as tinea capitis.
Hormonal imbalances, nutritional deficiencies (such as iron or vitamin D), and autoimmune diseases can also cause persistent thinning.
A dermatologist can perform a thorough scalp exam and recommend diagnostic tests to identify other potential causes.
How To Prevent Hair Loss When You Have Seborrheic Dermatitis
The key to preventing hair loss from seborrheic dermatitis is to keep the condition under control. This means managing the inflammation, reducing itching and flaking, and supporting overall scalp health.
Managing Itching and Scratching
One of the biggest challenges with seborrheic dermatitis is resisting the urge to scratch. Scratching can damage the hair and make inflammation worse, so it's important to find ways to manage the itch.
Some tips to try:
- Use a medicated shampoo or scalp treatment to reduce inflammation and flaking.
- Apply a cool compress or ice pack to the itchy areas.
- Gently massage the scalp to improve blood flow and ease tension.
- Avoid harsh hair treatments and styling products that can irritate the scalp.
If the itching is severe, your dermatologist may prescribe a topical corticosteroid or other medication to help calm the inflammation.
Keeping the Scalp Healthy
In addition to managing seborrheic dermatitis flare-ups, it's important to take steps to keep your scalp healthy overall. A healthy scalp provides a better foundation for hair growth.
Some scalp-friendly habits to adopt:
- Wash your hair regularly with a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo.
- Condition your hair to keep it moisturized and prevent breakage.
- Protect your scalp from sun damage with hats or hair sunscreen.
- Eat a balanced diet rich in hair-healthy vitamins and nutrients such as protein, iron, and biotin.
- Manage stress with relaxation techniques such as meditation or deep breathing.
Treatments for Seborrheic Dermatitis-Related Hair Loss
If you're dealing with hair loss from seborrheic dermatitis, there are treatments available to help control the inflammation and promote hair regrowth. The right approach depends on the severity of your symptoms and your individual needs.
Over-the-Counter Shampoos and Medications
For mild cases of seborrheic dermatitis, over-the-counter treatments may be enough to manage symptoms and prevent hair loss. Look for shampoos and scalp treatments that contain these ingredients:
- Ketoconazole: an antifungal that can reduce yeast growth on the scalp.
- Salicylic acid: a gentle exfoliant that can help remove scales and flakes.
- Zinc pyrithione: an antibacterial and antifungal that can reduce inflammation.
- Coal tar: a thick, dark liquid that can slow skin cell growth and ease itching.
Use these products as directed, and give them time to work. It can take several weeks of consistent use to see improvement.
Speak with your dermatologist about the possibility of using peptides and botanicals, such as those found in Happy Head’s Hair Serum, to control inflammation, soothe irritation, and restore scalp health.
Prescription Treatments for Severe Cases
If over-the-counter treatments aren't enough to control your seborrheic dermatitis and hair loss, your dermatologist may recommend prescription medications. Some options include:
- Topical corticosteroids: These anti-inflammatory creams or solutions can quickly calm inflammation and itching. They're usually used for short periods to avoid side effects.
- Oral antifungals: Medications such as fluconazole or itraconazole can be used to treat severe or resistant cases of seborrheic dermatitis.
- Topical calcineurin inhibitors: These non-steroid medications can reduce inflammation and help control symptoms long-term.
Home Remedies and Lifestyle Tips
In addition to medical treatments, there are some home remedies and lifestyle changes that may help control seborrheic dermatitis and support hair growth:
- Manage stress: Since stress can trigger flare-ups, find ways to relax and de-stress, such as yoga, deep breathing, or spending time in nature.
- Get some sun: Exposure to sunlight can help control yeast growth on the scalp. Just be sure to protect your skin from sunburn.
- Try tea tree oil: This essential oil has antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties. Mix a few drops with a carrier oil, and gently massage it into the scalp.
- Use a humidifier: Dry air can aggravate seborrheic dermatitis. Adding moisture to the air may help reduce flaking and itching.
Remember that home remedies should be used in conjunction with, not instead of, medical treatment. If your symptoms are severe or you're not seeing improvement, consult with a dermatologist.
What Triggers Seborrheic Dermatitis Flare-Ups and Hair Loss?
Seborrheic dermatitis can be a frustrating condition because it often comes and goes with seemingly no rhyme or reason. However, there are some common triggers that can cause flare-ups and worsen hair loss:
- Stress: Stress hormones can disrupt the skin's barrier function and make inflammation worse.
- Cold, dry weather: Low humidity and cold temperatures can dry out the skin and aggravate flaking and itching.
- Hormonal changes: Fluctuations in hormones, such as during puberty or menopause, can trigger seborrheic dermatitis.
- Certain medications: Some drugs, such as interferon, lithium, and psoralen, can aggravate seborrheic dermatitis.
- Underlying health conditions: Neurological conditions such as Parkinson's disease and HIV/AIDS can increase the risk of seborrheic dermatitis.
Identifying your personal triggers can help you anticipate and prevent flare-ups.
Tips To Reduce Flare-Ups
While you may not be able to avoid all triggers, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of flare-ups:
- Manage stress with relaxation techniques, exercise, or therapy.
- Protect your skin from extreme weather with moisturizer and protective clothing.
- Avoid harsh hair care products and treatments that can irritate the scalp.
- Wash your hair regularly to prevent oil and yeast buildup.
- Consider dietary changes, such as reducing sugar and yeast-containing foods.
By taking a proactive approach to managing triggers, you may be able to reduce the frequency and severity of seborrheic dermatitis flare-ups and the associated hair loss.
Seborrheic Dermatitis and Hair Loss: There Is Hope
Although seborrheic dermatitis can be persistent and uncomfortable, it is treatable, and in most cases, any associated hair loss is reversible. Recognizing the signs, addressing triggers, and following a consistent treatment plan can help restore both scalp health and hair density.
It's also important to rule out other potential causes of hair loss when symptoms don’t improve with dermatitis treatment.
By working with a dermatologist and staying proactive, you can successfully manage both seborrheic dermatitis and hair loss while protecting your hair from further damage.
Talk to a board-certified dermatologist to discuss your goals and find the solution that is best for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does hair loss from seborrheic dermatitis grow back?
Yes, hair loss from seborrheic dermatitis is often temporary. Once the inflammation is treated and the scalp heals, hair usually begins to regrow. However, frequent scratching or long-term inflammation can prolong recovery or lead to thinning over time.
How do you stop seborrheic dermatitis from losing hair?
To help stop hair loss, treat the underlying inflammation with medicated shampoos, topical antifungals, or corticosteroids. Avoid scratching, manage stress, and follow a consistent scalp care routine to reduce flare-ups and support healthy hair growth.
Should I wash my hair often if I have seborrheic dermatitis?
Yes, regular washing—often several times per week—helps manage seborrheic dermatitis by reducing oil buildup, yeast overgrowth, and flaking. Use a dermatologist-recommended shampoo with antifungal or anti-inflammatory ingredients for best results.
What happens if seborrheic dermatitis is left untreated?
If left untreated, seborrheic dermatitis can worsen over time, causing persistent inflammation, itching, scaling, and an increased risk of hair thinning or loss. Chronic flare-ups may damage the scalp barrier, making it harder for hair to grow back normally.
