Does scarring alopecia cause bald patches?

Most people with Scarring Alopecia notice bald patches or areas where hair density is gradually reduced. Inflammation targets the follicle and may replace parts of it with scar tissue. Affected skin can look smooth or shiny, and some people have redness, scale, itching, tenderness or burning before obvious hair loss.

Bald patches have many possible causes, including non-scarring forms of hair loss, so their presence does not establish scarring alopecia. A dermatologist may examine the scalp closely and sometimes take a small biopsy to identify the pattern of inflammation.

Arrange a dermatology assessment when a patch is enlarging, new patches are appearing, or scalp discomfort accompanies hair loss. Bring a list of medicines and hair products, and describe braiding, extensions, chemical treatments or tight hairstyles that may stress the scalp.

Until reviewed, use gentle washing, avoid scratching and reduce traction from tight styles. Do not start strong scalp treatments without advice, because irritation can make an inflamed scalp harder to assess.

Seek prompt assessment for rapidly spreading loss, marked pain, pus, bleeding, open sores or intense scalp inflammation. Earlier review matters when follicles may still be inflamed, because treatment focuses on controlling the process and protecting unaffected areas.

Ask whether the pattern appears scarring or non-scarring, whether a biopsy is useful, what may be driving inflammation, and how treatment will be monitored. Ask which hairstyles and products are safest while the scalp is active.