What causes scar hair loss and how to treat it

Scar induced hair loss is usually caused by factors such as trauma, infection, and inflammatory diseases that damage hair follicles. Treatment methods mainly include drug therapy, laser therapy, surgical treatment, etc. Scar induced hair loss may be caused by burns, folliculitis, discoid lupus erythematosus, lichen planus, scleroderma, etc. It can be improved by local injection of glucocorticoids, dot matrix laser, hair transplantation, and other methods.

1. Trauma

Head burns, scalds, or mechanical injuries can directly damage hair follicle structures and form fibrotic scar tissue. Early wound care is crucial for preventing scar formation, and it is necessary to keep the wound clean and use medical dressings for protection. If stable scars have formed, local blood circulation can be stimulated by microneedle radiofrequency to help soften fibrous tissue.

2. Infection

Bacterial folliculitis or fungal tinea capitis, if left untreated, may lead to purulent infection, resulting in permanent damage to hair follicles. Staphylococcus aureus infection is common in immunocompromised individuals, characterized by redness, swelling, and pustules. In the acute phase, antibiotic ointment should be used to control infection, while in the chronic phase, low-energy laser can be attempted to improve the local microenvironment.

Thirdly, discoid lupus erythematosus

is an autoimmune disease that attacks the basal cell layer of hair follicles, forming butterfly shaped atrophic scars. The initial manifestation is clear red patches with scales, followed by central atrophy and depression in the later stage. Hydroxychloroquine needs to be used to regulate immunity, combined with local application of tacrolimus ointment. Stable stage patients may consider using small hair transplant to repair their appearance.

Fourth, lichen planus

Moss like rash affecting the scalp can cause excessive keratinization of hair follicles, ultimately forming porcelain white atrophic spots. Typical symptoms include purplish red papules and reticular white lines, which may be accompanied by severe itching. The treatment mainly involves the use of potent corticosteroid packs, while stubborn cases require the combination of oral retinoids.

Fifth, scleroderma

Localized scleroderma leads to abnormal proliferation of collagen fibers, causing the scalp to become hard and lose elasticity. Early manifestations include hardened patches with wax like luster, and later irreversible hair loss. Pulse dye laser can improve local blood circulation, combined with snow glycoside cream ointment to help soften fibrotic tissue. Patients with scar hair loss should avoid pulling and stimulating the affected area in daily life and choose mild silicone free shampoo products. When going out, do a good job of physical sun protection to prevent UV rays from aggravating pigmentation. supplementing with vitamin E and zinc elements appropriately can help with skin repair. It is recommended to re-examine the hair follicle status every three months, and surgical intervention can only be considered if the stable period lasts for more than six months. Maintaining a regular daily routine and controlling anxiety during treatment have a positive effect on improving prognosis.