Steroid injections for hair loss are a targeted treatment often used when inflammation or immune system activity is damaging hair follicles.
Because hair loss can stem from many causes, not all patients respond to the same approach. Understanding when a localized anti-inflammatory treatment is appropriate can make all the difference.
We’ll explain how these injections work, who they benefit, how they compare to other proven hair growth treatments, and what you can expect if your dermatologist recommends this specialized therapy.
What Are Steroid Injections for Hair Loss?
Steroid injections for hair loss, also known as intralesional corticosteroid injections, are a localized treatment for hair loss stemming from autoimmune and inflammatory conditions.
These injections deliver a concentrated dose of steroids directly into the affected areas of the scalp to reduce inflammation around hair follicles. This method is especially effective for autoimmune-related hair loss, such as alopecia areata.
By suppressing immune activity at the injection site, these steroids help disrupt the attack on hair follicles, allowing hair to regrow.
The medication is delivered directly into the dermis using a fine needle, which provides a higher concentration at the target area with fewer systemic side effects than oral steroids. Treatments are typically spaced several weeks apart and may be repeated based on individual response.
Steroids Used in Intralesional Injections for Hair Loss
The most commonly used steroid is triamcinolone acetonide, typically at a concentration of 2.5 to 10 mg/mL, depending on the severity and location of hair loss. Several other types of steroids can be used in injections for hair loss, including:
- Betamethasone
- Dexamethasone
- Hydrocortisone
The choice of steroid depends on the specific type and severity of hair loss, as well as individual patient factors. A dermatologist will determine the most appropriate steroid and dosage for each case.
Who Can Benefit From Steroid Injections for Hair Loss?
Steroid injections are ideal for individuals with inflammatory or autoimmune-related hair loss. They’re most effective when the underlying cause involves immune system activity attacking the hair follicles.
Patients with sudden patchy hair loss or scalp inflammation may benefit significantly from this targeted therapy.
Conditions Steroid Injections Are Used To Treat
Steroid injections are most commonly used to treat alopecia areata, an autoimmune condition in which the immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles, causing round, smooth patches of hair loss.
Steroid injections can help suppress the immune response and promote hair regrowth in these affected areas.
In some cases, steroid injections may also be used to treat other forms of hair loss, such as:
- Lichen planopilaris
- Frontal fibrosis alopecia
- Hair loss related to Crohn’s disease or discoid lupus erythematosus
- Scalp psoriasis
- Traction alopecia (if scarring hasn’t yet occurred)
- Central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia (CCCA)
Steroid injections aren't typically used for the most common types of hair loss, such as male or female pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia) and telogen effluvium.
These conditions are usually treated with other methods, such as topical minoxidil, oral finasteride, or low-level laser devices.
Who Should Not Use Steroid Injections for Hair Loss?
Steroid injections are not appropriate for all types of hair loss. Individuals with diffuse thinning due to telogen effluvium, androgenetic alopecia, or nutritional deficiencies are unlikely to benefit, as these causes do not involve significant inflammation.
Additionally, patients with active scalp infections, skin atrophy, or poor wound healing should avoid this treatment, as corticosteroids can worsen these conditions.
People with uncontrolled diabetes or those prone to keloid formation should also proceed with caution, since steroids can affect blood sugar levels and skin integrity.
Finally, pregnant or breastfeeding women should discuss potential risks with a healthcare provider, as the safety of intralesional steroids in these populations has not been firmly established.
How Effective Are Steroid Injections for Hair Loss?
Steroid injections have shown promise in promoting hair regrowth, particularly for those with alopecia areata, but individual results can vary, and several factors can influence the treatment's effectiveness.
Response rates can vary depending on the extent and duration of hair loss. Patients with more extensive or long-standing alopecia areata may have lower success rates with steroid injections alone.
In these cases, combining steroid injections with other treatments, such as topical minoxidil or immunotherapy, may improve outcomes.
Factors That Affect Treatment Outcomes
While steroid injections can be a powerful tool in the fight against hair loss, it's important to have realistic expectations.
Not everyone will experience the same level of success, and some individuals may require multiple treatment sessions or a combination of therapies to achieve their desired results.
Several factors can influence the effectiveness of steroid injections for hair loss:
- Type and severity of hair loss: Steroid injections tend to be most effective for mild to moderate cases of alopecia areata. More extensive or chronic hair loss may require additional or alternative treatments.
- Age of the patient: Younger patients may have better response rates to steroid injections compared to older individuals.
- Overall health: Patients with certain medical conditions or those taking medications that affect the immune system may have different responses to steroid injections.
- Consistency of treatment: Regular, consistent treatment sessions are necessary for optimal results. Skipping or delaying injections may reduce the treatment's effectiveness.
- Skill of the injector: The experience and technique of the dermatologist administering the injections can impact the treatment's success. It's essential to choose a qualified, skilled professional for these procedures.
What To Expect During a Steroid Injection for Hair Loss
Understanding what happens during treatment can help reduce anxiety and ensure a smoother experience. While some mild discomfort is possible, the process is generally well tolerated and does not require significant downtime.
The Treatment Process Step by Step
Steroid injections for hair loss are performed by a dermatologist and are typically administered during a short outpatient visit. Here's what to expect:
- Scalp Examination: The dermatologist evaluates your scalp to determine injection sites.
- Cleaning the Area: The skin is cleansed with an antiseptic to reduce infection risk.
- Optional Numbing: A topical anesthetic may be applied, especially for sensitive areas.
- Injection: Using a fine-gauge needle, corticosteroid (usually triamcinolone acetonide) is injected into the affected areas, spaced about 1 cm apart.
- Post-Treatment Care: The dermatologist may apply a soothing ointment or give instructions for scalp care.
- Duration: The procedure typically takes 10–15 minutes, depending on the extent of hair loss.
There is usually no need for bandaging, and patients can return to normal activities right away.
Your provider will schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and administer additional injections as needed. They may also recommend complementary treatments, such as topical medications or hair growth supplements, to enhance your results.
How Many Sessions Are Needed?
Most patients require multiple sessions spaced about 4 to 6 weeks apart. A typical course involves 3 to 6 treatments, though this varies based on the severity and type of hair loss.
Results are often assessed after a few months to determine if continued injections are beneficial. If no improvements are seen after six treatments, injections should be stopped.
Risks and Side Effects of Steroid Injections for Hair Loss
While these injections are generally considered safe when administered by a qualified professional, it's essential to be aware of potential complications and take steps to minimize their occurrence.
Common side effects of steroid injections for hair loss are usually mild and resolve on their own within a few days to weeks. They can include:
- Pain or tenderness at the injection site.
- Temporary thinning or lightening of the skin (hypopigmentation).
- Bruising or bleeding at the injection site.
- Itching or mild irritation of the scalp.
Rare but serious side effects can include:
- Skin atrophy (thinning of the skin) or denting.
- Telangiectasia (visible small blood vessels on the surface of the skin).
- Allergic reactions to the steroid solution.
- Infection at the injection site.
- Systemic absorption of the steroid can lead to hormonal imbalances or other complications.
Report any concerning symptoms or side effects to your dermatologist promptly. They can assess the situation and make adjustments to your treatment plan if necessary.
How To Lower the Risk of Side Effects
There are several steps you can take to minimize the risk of side effects from steroid injections:
- Choose a qualified, experienced provider: Seek treatment from a board-certified dermatologist with extensive experience in administering steroid injections for hair loss.
- Follow aftercare instructions: Carefully adhere to your provider's instructions for caring for your scalp after injections.
- Communicate with your provider: Be open and honest about your medical history, allergies, and any medications you are taking. This information can help your provider tailor your treatment plan to minimize risks.
- Attend regular follow-up appointments: Consistent monitoring can help identify and address any potential complications early on.
How Steroid Injections Compare to Other Hair Loss Treatments
Steroid injections are just one option among several medical treatments for hair loss, and they may be used alone or in combination with other therapies.
Understanding how they compare to other therapies, including topical and oral steroids, minoxidil, and finasteride, can help you make an informed decision.
Steroid Injections vs. Topical and Oral Steroids
Steroid injections deliver corticosteroids directly into the affected area, offering a high local concentration with minimal systemic exposure. This targeted approach is typically more effective than topical steroids for inflammatory scalp conditions such as alopecia areata or lichen planopilaris.
Topical steroids, though convenient and noninvasive, may not penetrate deeply enough to reach the follicular inflammation and often require prolonged use.
Oral steroids can be effective in more widespread or aggressive cases, but they come with a higher risk of systemic side effects, including weight gain, blood sugar fluctuations, and immune suppression.
In contrast, intralesional injections minimize these systemic risks while still providing strong anti-inflammatory effects at the follicular level. However, injections require office visits, can be uncomfortable, and aren’t ideal for large areas of diffuse thinning.
Steroid Injections vs. Minoxidil and Finasteride
Steroid injections target inflammation and immune-related follicle damage, making them most effective for conditions such as alopecia areata. In contrast, minoxidil and finasteride are primarily used for androgenetic alopecia, the most common type of hair loss.
Minoxidil works by extending the growth phase of hair follicles and increasing blood flow, promoting thicker, longer hair over time. It is available over the counter or in stronger strengths by prescription.
Finasteride is a prescription medication that blocks the conversion of testosterone to DHT, a hormone that shrinks follicles in androgen-sensitive individuals.
While minoxidil and finasteride are often used long-term to maintain or improve density, they don’t treat inflammatory or autoimmune forms of hair loss. Steroid injections, on the other hand, don’t address hormonal hair loss and are typically used in short treatment courses.
Combining Steroid Injections With Other Treatments
Steroid injections are often most effective when used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. For conditions such as alopecia areata or lichen planopilaris, dermatologists may combine intralesional corticosteroids with minoxidil to support regrowth and stimulate dormant follicles.
In androgenetic alopecia with inflammatory features, finasteride may be added to address underlying hormonal factors. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy is another adjunctive option that can complement steroid injections by enhancing follicular health and growth signaling.
Nutritional support, stress management, and addressing autoimmune triggers may also be beneficial.
Combination therapy allows for a tailored approach that targets multiple aspects of hair loss, increasing the likelihood of regrowth and long-term stability while minimizing over-reliance on a single modality.
How Much Do Steroid Injections for Hair Loss Cost?
The cost of steroid injections for hair loss can vary depending on several factors, including the provider, location, and extent of treatment needed. On average, a single session of steroid injections can range from $100 to $500 or more.
Factors that can influence the cost of treatment include:
- The number of injections required per session.
- The size and number of areas being treated.
- The type of steroid used.
- The provider's experience and qualifications.
- Geographic location.
Insurance Coverage
Steroid injections for hair loss are typically considered a cosmetic procedure and are not covered by most health insurance plans.
However, some plans may offer coverage if the hair loss is caused by a medical condition, such as alopecia areata. It's always best to check with your insurance provider to understand your specific coverage and out-of-pocket costs.
Remember to factor in the potential need for multiple treatment sessions. Most patients require several rounds of injections to achieve optimal results, and maintenance treatments may be necessary to prevent relapse. This can add up to a significant investment over time.
Some providers may offer payment plans or financing options to help make treatment more affordable. Ask about these possibilities during your consultation.
When To Consider Steroid Injections for Hair Loss
Consider steroid injections for hair loss if:
- You have been diagnosed with alopecia areata.
- Other treatments, such as topical steroids or oral medications, have not been effective in promoting hair regrowth.
- Your hair loss is causing significant emotional distress or impacting your quality of life.
- You are willing to commit to a series of treatments and follow-up appointments.
- You have discussed the potential risks and benefits with a qualified dermatologist and feel comfortable with the treatment plan.
Steroid Injections for Hair Loss: The Bottom Line
Hair loss can be physically and emotionally challenging, especially when it stems from inflammatory or autoimmune conditions. Fortunately, targeted steroid injections offer a well-established option to help calm inflammation and support regrowth.
While not suitable for every type of hair loss, they can be highly effective when used appropriately, whether alone or in combination with other therapies, and monitored by a skilled dermatologist.
If you’re struggling with patchy hair loss or scalp inflammation, talk to your dermatologist about whether steroid injections for hair loss may be right for you.
Talk to a board-certified dermatologist to discuss your goals and find the solution that is best for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do steroid injections help with hair loss?
Yes, steroid injections can help reduce inflammation around hair follicles, particularly in autoimmune conditions such as alopecia areata. They often stimulate regrowth in affected patches, but results vary, and repeated treatments are typically needed for lasting improvement.
What is the cost of steroid injections for hair loss?
The cost of steroid injections for hair loss typically ranges from $100 to $500 per session, depending on the provider, location, and extent of treatment. Multiple sessions may be necessary, which can increase the overall expense over time.
Does insurance cover steroid injections for hair loss?
Insurance may cover steroid injections when used to treat medical conditions such as alopecia areata, but coverage varies by provider and policy. Cosmetic hair loss treatments are usually not covered, so it’s important to verify your benefits beforehand.
Are steroid injections painful?
Most patients experience only mild discomfort during steroid injections for hair loss. A small needle is used, and a topical anesthetic may be applied to reduce pain. Some soreness or tenderness may linger afterward, but this usually subsides within a day or two.
