How effective is steroid injection for lichen planopilaris?

Lichen planopilaris is an inflammatory condition that targets hair follicles and can cause redness, scale, burning, itch, tenderness, and gradual hair loss. Injecting steroid into selected scalp areas aims to reduce inflammation close to affected follicles. This may ease symptoms and help limit ongoing activity when the diagnosis and treatment area are clear. It is not a hair-transplant procedure, and a scarred follicle cannot be expected to produce new hair simply because inflammation has settled.

A dermatologist may examine the scalp closely and use other tests when the diagnosis is uncertain. Injections are usually considered alongside a broader plan, which can include medicines applied to the scalp or taken by mouth. Attend follow-up even if itching improves, because inflammation may remain active without strong symptoms. Tell the clinician about scalp infection, medicines, pregnancy plans, and any previous reaction to steroid treatment. Gentle washing and avoiding scratching or tight hairstyles can reduce additional irritation.

Contact your dermatologist if scalp pain, redness, pustules, crusting, or hair loss is increasing. Seek prompt care for spreading warmth, drainage, fever, or severe tenderness, which can indicate infection or another active problem. Arrange review for new smooth shiny areas, expanding patches, or eyebrow loss, because these findings may signal ongoing follicle damage and a need to reassess treatment.

Ask whether your scalp shows active inflammation or established scarring, what signs will show that treatment is working, and how injections fit with other options. Discuss injection discomfort, skin thinning or colour change, hair-loss monitoring, and the timing of your next scalp examination.