What to Expect from Steroid Injection for Lichen Planopilaris

The clinician checks the scalp, identifies active or symptomatic areas, and cleans the skin. A fine needle then delivers steroid medicine into selected scalp sites. You may notice brief pinching, pressure, or stinging. The purpose is to settle inflammation around affected follicles; it does not restore scarred follicles that have already been lost.

Scalp tenderness or small raised spots can occur briefly after treatment. Lichen planopilaris may need ongoing assessment because activity can be subtle while hair density changes. Your clinician may compare symptoms, scalp appearance, and hair shedding at follow-up.

Tell the clinician about scalp infection, allergies, medicines, and previous injection reactions. Follow specific instructions for washing and applying products after the appointment. Avoid picking at injection points, and record changes in itch, burning, tenderness, redness, and shedding so they can be discussed at review.

Contact the clinic if scalp pain, redness, warmth, swelling, or discharge is worsening, or if an area becomes unusually thin or indented. Seek urgent care for breathing difficulty, facial swelling, or widespread hives after treatment.

Ask how active scalp areas were identified, what improvement will be monitored, how to protect the treated scalp, and which symptoms should trigger an earlier review.