Can Dermatitis Cause Hair Loss?

Dermatitis is a general term used to describe multiple skin conditions that cause swelling and irritation. While dermatitis isn’t a cause for hair loss, some specific types of skin complaints can contribute to damage to the scalp and hair, often primarily due to scratching. [1]

While atopic dermatitis [2], or eczema, is well known, the primary types of the skin condition most often linked to hair loss are rarer and include seborrheic [3] and allergic contact dermatitis [4] – both of which are often associated with temporary thinning of the hair or irritation to the scalp. 

If you’re concerned about skin sensitivities impacting your hair or have noticed possible hair loss alongside varied types of dermatitis, this guide, compiled by our specialist hair restoration teams, will clarify the causes, complications, and treatment options available.

Understanding How Hair Loss and Dermatitis Can Go Hand in Hand

As we’ve covered, dermatitis doesn’t necessarily cause hair loss, nor does it always mean that a person with more sensitive skin is more likely to experience thinning and hair loss if they aren’t already genetically predisposed to pattern hair loss.

The two types of dermatitis we’ve listed above may, though, be more commonly linked to hair loss, although the severity and speed of changes to your hair may depend heavily on the extent of your symptoms, how quickly you treat them, and whether you experience ongoing irritation, often due to reactions to certain products or shampoos.

Seborrheic Dermatitis and Hair Loss

This dermatitis is common and often impacts the scalp. As before, it can contribute to hair loss if untreated and left to progress, but it is usually fairly simple to manage and control. As a chronic skin condition, it is important that you seek relief from symptoms since scratching and abrasion to your scalp are most likely to blame for hair loss.

Sufferers experience higher-than-usual production of sebum, a type of natural oil created by our glands. This can lead to greasy, red, and flaky skin that is often very itchy, alongside dandruff.

Researchers aren’t entirely sure of the causes, with many believing that this form of dermatitis is hereditary or linked with immune system deficiencies. Some people find that along with excess sebum, their skin produces an extra amount of yeast, which can also cause more serious inflammations that impede the growth of healthy hair.

Over-the-counter products and medicated shampoos can treat the condition, although medical practitioners can also prescribe medications if these are unsuccessful, with options like corticosteroids and antifungal topical treatments that can tackle prolonged symptoms. [5]

Hair Loss and Allergic Contact Dermatitis

Allergic contact dermatitis, or ACD, is another fairly common condition that usually affects women and is linked with allergies and skin reactivity to specific ingredients, including metals and finishes used in hair accessories, products, and shampoos.

The main symptom is an inflamed, itchy scalp that is almost impossible to ignore. It is usually associated with hair thinning and loss if exposure to the allergen or contaminant causing the irritation isn’t identified and removed. [6]

This type of dermatitis can be diagnosed following allergen testing, with some of the most frequent culprits including:

• Nickel in combs, brushes and hairpins
• Shampoo fragrances
• Air fresheners
• Deodorants and dry shampoos
• Scented oils and aromatherapy products
• Products used in the installation of hair extensions
• Ingredients used in detangler sprays

Like any allergic response, the good news is that you can quickly remedy the symptoms and return your scalp and hair to good health by avoiding the trigger and switching to other hair products and shampoos that use non-irritant ingredients.

Managing Hair Loss Aggravated by Dermatitis

The ideal approach is to ensure you understand the nature of the dermatitis you are suffering from and take action to manage your symptoms, whether by avoiding allergens, using medicated shampoos, or visiting your GP to seek help controlling the severity of your dermatitis.

Earlier interventions are always better since reducing inflammation and itching can help prevent permanent damage to your hair follicles that are difficult to reverse or ensure you avoid excessive scratching that can cause scarring.

Dr Matee, Director of Surgical Services for KSL Clinic, says, ‘Scalp irritation is very common, and getting to the root cause is important to ensure we can prevent ongoing issues and keep your hair and scalp in optimal condition.

If you have noticed thinning and hair loss, we may recommend therapies like platelet-rich plasma treatments to activate cellular healing and stimulate dormant follicles or a bespoke hair transplant to replenish areas of hair loss that are unlikely to grow back otherwise.

Our initial consultations are entirely free of cost or obligation and provide access to sector-leading hair restoration specialists. We will remain on hand to ensure you make informed decisions throughout and remain in control of your hair regrowth journey.’