Eczema and psoriasis are two common skin conditions that can affect the scalp, leading to discomfort, irritation, and in some cases, hair loss. While these conditions do not directly cause permanent baldness, the inflammation, itching, and flaking they cause can contribute to temporary hair shedding. Understanding how eczema and psoriasis affect the scalp and what treatment options are available can help individuals manage their symptoms and prevent hair loss.

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition that causes redness, itching, and dryness. When it affects the scalp, it can lead to irritation and flaking, similar to dandruff but often more severe.

• Inflammation and Itching – Constant scratching due to irritation can weaken hair follicles, leading to breakage and increased shedding.
• Dryness and Scaling – A dry, flaky scalp can disrupt the natural hair growth cycle, making hair more brittle and prone to falling out.
• Secondary Infections – Open wounds from excessive scratching can lead to infections, further damaging hair follicles.

While hair loss caused by eczema is usually temporary, long-term inflammation without proper treatment can affect hair regrowth.

Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that causes skin cells to multiply rapidly, leading to thick, scaly patches known as plaques. When psoriasis affects the scalp, it can result in significant irritation and discomfort.

• Plaque Build-Up – Thick plaques on the scalp can obstruct hair follicles, affecting hair growth and leading to shedding.
• Inflammation – Chronic inflammation weakens hair follicles over time, making it difficult for new hair to grow.
• Hair Breakage – The rigid plaques can cause hair to become brittle and break easily.

Scalp psoriasis does not directly cause permanent hair loss, but prolonged inflammation and irritation can contribute to temporary thinning. Proper management of symptoms is essential for maintaining hair health.

Managing eczema and psoriasis effectively can help prevent hair loss and promote a healthier scalp. Some treatment options include:

1. Medicated Shampoos – Ingredients such as coal tar, salicylic acid, and ketoconazole can help reduce inflammation and flaking.
2. Topical Steroids – Prescription corticosteroid creams or ointments can help control inflammation and itching.
3. Moisturizing the Scalp – Keeping the scalp hydrated with gentle, fragrance-free oils and lotions can prevent excessive dryness.
4. Avoiding Irritants – Harsh hair products, heat styling, and excessive washing can worsen symptoms.
5. Light Therapy (Phototherapy) – UV light treatments can help reduce psoriasis symptoms and improve scalp health.

In most cases, hair lost due to eczema or psoriasis grows back once the underlying condition is managed effectively. However, long-term untreated inflammation can lead to scarring, which may affect regrowth in severe cases. Seeking treatment early and following a proper scalp care routine is essential for preventing long-term hair loss.

If eczema or psoriasis has caused significant hair thinning over time, and hair does not grow back despite treatment, a hair transplant may be an option. Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) and Direct Hair Implantation (DHI) are popular procedures that restore lost hair by transplanting healthy follicles into affected areas. However, individuals with active scalp conditions should first focus on controlling inflammation before considering a hair transplant.