What Is Scarring Alopecia?

Hair loss/alopecia is classified as scarring, when the hair loss leads to permanent damage to hair follicles, leaving scars. This is essentially irreversible hair loss, and in this setting the main aim is to make an early diagnosis, so treatment can be initiated early to prevent further hair loss and preserve as much hair as possible. If there are any associated symptoms, such as itching or scalp discomfort, these can also be addressed.

To make a diagnosis of scarring alopecia, generally it is advisable to see a Dermatologist, especially one with a specialist interest/expertise in hair loss. They will listen to your story, ask further questions and examine your scalp and the rest of your skin. They might do blood tests, and may also perform a scalp biopsy, whereby a small sample of skin is taken from the scalp. This sample is usually best evaluated by a Pathologist, who has experience in diagnosing hair disorders.

Examples of types of scarring alopecia (this is not a complete list), includes: Lichen planopilaris (includes frontal fibrosing alopecia subtype), Central Centrifugal Cicatricial Alopecia and Folliculitis Decalvans.