Lichen planus scalp treatment: what to know

A dermatologist chooses treatment according to the scalp findings, activity, symptoms, and whether hair follicles appear scarred. Mild or limited areas may be treated with medicine applied directly to the scalp, while more extensive inflammation may need medicine taken by mouth or another specialist option. Treatment can control active inflammation, but it cannot reliably restore a follicle that has already been destroyed. [Lichen Planus](/conditions/lichen-planus/) may also affect skin elsewhere.

Use prescribed scalp medicine exactly as directed and keep follow-up visits, even if itching improves before the inflammation has settled. [Topical Corticosteroids](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-corticosteroids/) are commonly considered for local inflammation; a clinician may discuss [Oral Corticosteroid Treatment](/treatments/medical-dermatology/oral-corticosteroid-therapy/) when stronger or wider treatment is needed. Wash gently, avoid picking scale, and pause irritating dyes, relaxers, or fragranced products. Do not restart leftover steroid medicine without advice.

Contact the treating clinician promptly if hair loss continues, the scalp becomes increasingly painful, or new pustules, crusts, or open areas appear. Seek urgent help for facial swelling, breathing difficulty, or a severe reaction after a medicine. New mouth sores, genital sores, or eye symptoms also deserve timely assessment because lichen planus can involve more than the scalp.

Ask which areas are active, whether the follicles are scarred, how to apply treatment through the hair, and what side effects to watch for. Clarify when improvement should be reviewed and what maintenance plan will reduce relapse risk.