Hair loss & the scalp

Some hair loss conditions may be accompanied with an oilier or flakier scalp. This does not mean that you will necessarily see more hair coming out or that the scalp condition is causing the loss. The change in the scalp comes about because genetic hair loss is often the result of increased sensitivity to male hormones in the follicle; this can also lead to the sebaceous or oil glands becoming larger and more active, resulting in a greasier scalp. Some flaky scalp conditions are aggravated by increased scalp oil, so it is quite common for the scalp to flake or look oilier with this hair-loss condition. However, mild flaking does not usually cause the hair to fall out nor does the hair loss make the scalp flaky. They are just the result of the same trigger mechanism.

Occasionally, the scalp can have acne-looking lesions or red patches. It may appear smooth or, if you gently pinch the skin, look like the skin of an onion. Some of these scalp conditions may be relevant in assessing the cause of your hair loss, as they could indicate a scarring type of hair loss (cicatricial alopecia) or alopecia areata.

If you have a scalp problem or are unsure if your scalp condition is causing hair loss, see a specialist.