What should you know about greasy hair falling out?

Oiliness does not by itself explain hair loss. Dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis can make the scalp itchy and inflamed, while shedding may follow stress, illness, hormonal change, nutritional problems, tight hairstyles, or a hair-growth condition. Round smooth patches suggest alopecia areata; gradual thinning at the part or temples suggests a pattern of hair loss. Scaling with broken hairs can occur with scalp ringworm. A clinician will ask when shedding began, examine the roots and scalp, and look for a distribution pattern.

Wash the scalp gently and regularly, and avoid scratching, tight pulling, bleaching, or heavy products that make examination difficult. Handle wet hair carefully and use a wide-toothed comb. Take photos of the parting or patches over time and record recent illness, major stress, new medicines, diet changes, or hairstyle changes. Do not start prescription hair-loss treatment without discussing pregnancy potential, other medicines, and the likely diagnosis with a clinician.

Arrange a medical assessment for ongoing or visibly increasing shedding, widening parting, or any patch of reduced density. Seek prompt care for painful swelling, pus, marked scaling, broken hairs, fever, or rapidly appearing smooth patches. Early examination can identify inflammation or infection and prevent an unsuitable treatment from masking the pattern.

Is the oiliness causing scalp inflammation, or is it separate from my hair loss? Which tests or examination findings would clarify the cause? Would finasteride treatment be appropriate for me, and what safety considerations apply?