Lichen Planopilaris Scalp Pictures: What to Look For

This inflammatory scalp condition targets hair follicles. Early images may show redness or small scales clustered around individual hairs, while active areas can look tender, itchy, or darker than nearby skin. As inflammation damages follicles, the surface may become smooth and shiny and hair may not regrow in that patch. Similar appearances can occur with other causes of hair loss, so a dermatologist compares the pattern with symptoms, examination findings, and sometimes a biopsy.

Take clear, well-lit photographs from the same angles if you are tracking change, and avoid scratching or picking scale before an appointment. Record symptoms such as burning, tenderness, itch, or increased shedding. A dermatologist may discuss anti-inflammatory options, including [Steroid Injection Into The Skin](/treatments/injectables/intralesional-steroid-injection/) or [Oral Corticosteroid Treatment](/treatments/medical-dermatology/oral-corticosteroid-therapy/), depending on activity and your health history.

Arrange a dermatology assessment when hair loss is expanding, the scalp is painful or burning, or you see redness and scale around many follicles. Prompt review is useful when a patch is changing quickly, because treatment aims to settle inflammation before more follicle damage occurs.

Could this pattern represent scarring hair loss, and would trichoscopy or a biopsy help? Which signs would show that inflammation is active? How should I photograph or monitor the scalp between visits?