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Hair Loss and Scarring Alopecia

How the structures involved in Scarring Alopecia differ from normal
Illustration: How the structures involved in Scarring Alopecia differ from normal

Short answer

Scarring alopecia is hair loss caused by damage to hair follicles, so early assessment focuses on stopping activity and protecting remaining follicles.

This answers one question. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace an assessment by a licensed doctor.

At a glance

Key clue
Shiny skin or missing follicle openings can suggest scarring.
Priority
Assess active inflammation before considering cosmetic restoration.

How scarring changes the picture

Scarring alopecia can appear as smooth or shiny areas, reduced follicle openings, redness, scale, burning, itching, tenderness, or expanding hair loss. Some people notice Bald Patches, but not every bald patch is scarring. Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia is one condition in this group and may affect the frontal hairline and eyebrows. The key concern is whether inflammation remains active around follicles.

A dermatologist may examine the scalp closely and sometimes sample a small area to clarify the type. The appearance alone cannot reliably identify the cause or tell whether activity has stopped.

What you can do now

Arrange a dermatology review rather than waiting for the area to enlarge. Photograph the hairline and affected scalp, note burning or itch, and bring information about medicines and autoimmune conditions. Use gentle hair care and avoid tight styles or aggressive rubbing. Treatment may aim to reduce inflammation; Steroid Injection Into The Skin is one option a clinician may consider for selected active areas, depending on the diagnosis.

When to seek care promptly

Seek prompt assessment when hair loss is expanding, the scalp is painful or burning, redness or scale is increasing, or eyelashes or eyebrows are thinning. Pus, crusting, fever, or marked swelling needs timely medical attention because infection can require different care. Earlier review helps distinguish active disease from an inactive scar.

Questions for your doctor

Ask whether the follicles look inflamed, whether testing is needed, what treatment is intended to control, and how activity will be monitored. Ask which symptoms should trigger an earlier visit and whether current hairstyles or products could be aggravating the scalp.

Find care

General Clinics & Polyclinics in Abu Dhabi

That answer is general. If you want it applied to your own case, these are licensed general clinics & polyclinics listed in Abu Dhabi.

City

Ordered by verification status and how complete each clinic's public record is, then alphabetically. This is a directory listing, not a ranking — Zavis does not rate or recommend providers.

A factual listing drawn from the DHA, DOH and MOHAP licence registers. It is not a referral, an endorsement, or advice that any of these providers is right for you.

Questions people ask

Will hair regrow from a scarred follicle?

A severely damaged follicle may not regrow hair, which is why controlling active disease matters.

Are all bald patches scarring alopecia?

No. Smooth patches can have other causes, including Alopecia Areata, and examination is needed.

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Medical disclaimer. This page is general health information, not medical advice, and it cannot diagnose you. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider about your own symptoms and treatment. In an emergency in the UAE, call 998 for an ambulance.