LPP hair loss symptoms: what to know

Hair loss is a visible symptom rather than a diagnosis. Gradual thinning at the crown or along a part can occur with pattern hair loss, while round smooth patches may occur with alopecia areata. Scaling, broken hairs, tenderness, or inflamed skin can point toward a scalp disorder such as scalp ringworm. Hair loss after illness, major stress, or a change in the body may reflect telogen effluvium. Repeated tight hairstyles can contribute to traction alopecia. A hair-loss symptom does not by itself identify the cause.

A clinician may ask when shedding began, whether it is diffuse or patchy, and whether the scalp feels itchy, sore, or scaly. They may examine the scalp and hair shafts and consider other health factors before suggesting treatment.

Take clear photographs of the part, hairline, and affected areas in similar lighting so changes are easier to describe. Use gentle hair care, avoid tight pulling and harsh chemical processing, and tell the clinician about recent illness, new medicines, dietary restriction, or hormonal changes. Do not start a prescription hair-loss medicine without discussing its suitability. For background, see Hair Loss, Alopecia Areata, Female Pattern Hair Loss, or Traction Alopecia.

Arrange a medical assessment when hair loss is sudden, rapidly expanding, patchy, or accompanied by scalp pain, marked redness, pus, heavy scale, or broken hairs. Prompt care is especially useful when eyebrows or eyelashes are also changing, or when hair loss follows a new medicine or other significant health change. A clinician can decide whether testing or treatment is needed.

What pattern do you see, and what conditions should be considered? Does my scalp need testing? Could my medicines, recent illness, nutrition, or hairstyles be contributing? Which treatment options fit my health history, and how will we judge whether the plan is helping?