Lichen Planopilaris Trichoscopy

A trichoscope provides a close view without cutting the hair. The clinician may look for perifollicular scale, white or red areas around follicles, broken hairs, and loss of the small openings where hairs emerge. Findings can suggest active inflammation or established scarring, and they can help distinguish lichen planopilaris from other shedding and scarring disorders. The appearance is interpreted alongside symptoms and the scalp examination, not in isolation.

Arrive with the scalp in its usual state unless the clinic gives different instructions; avoid covering active scale with styling products immediately beforehand. Mention itch, burning, tenderness, shedding, past treatments, and any hair-care practices that irritate the scalp. If inflammation needs treatment, your dermatologist may discuss [Steroid Injection Into The Skin](/treatments/injectables/intralesional-steroid-injection/) or [Oral Corticosteroid Treatment](/treatments/medical-dermatology/oral-corticosteroid-therapy/).

Book an assessment when a widening patch, scalp discomfort, or follicle-centered scale continues. Return sooner if a treatment plan is followed but new areas develop. Trichoscopy can also be useful during follow-up because repeated views may show whether active signs are settling or spreading.

Which trichoscopy findings suggest active inflammation? Do the findings fit lichen planopilaris or another hair disorder? Would a biopsy change the treatment plan? What should I photograph between appointments?