Causes of dry scalp and hair loss

Scale, broken hairs, tenderness, and areas of swelling can occur with scalp ringworm and need medical treatment. Smooth, sharply outlined patches of loss may occur with alopecia areata. Gradual thinning at the temples, hairline, or crown can fit male pattern hair loss, while widening parting or reduced density over the top can fit female pattern hair loss. Tight hairstyles, extensions, or repeated pulling can contribute to traction alopecia. Hair shedding that follows illness, major stress, or a change in the body may be telogen effluvium. Dryness may also come from harsh washing or product irritation and may not explain the hair loss by itself.

Use a gentle shampoo, avoid very hot water and vigorous scratching, and pause products that sting. Loosen hairstyles and avoid repeated tension while the scalp settles. Take clear photos of the scalp and note when shedding began, recent illness, stress, diet changes, medicines, and styling practices. A clinician can inspect the scalp, assess the hair pattern, and decide whether testing or treatment is needed. Do not start a hair-loss medicine without checking whether it suits you.

Book an assessment for sudden, patchy, worsening, or scarring-looking loss, or for scalp pain, pus, marked redness, or broken hairs. Prompt review is particularly useful when hair loss follows a new medicine or is accompanied by other new symptoms. Early examination can separate a treatable scalp infection from a hair-cycle or pattern disorder.

Is the dryness causing the shedding, or are they separate problems? Does the pattern suggest ringworm, alopecia areata, traction, telogen effluvium, or pattern loss? Should I change my hair routine or consider a treatment such as finasteride?