I suffer from scalp seborrhoeic dermatitis, can I still have a hair transplant?

Question

I have suffered from seborrhoeic dermatitis for about 5-6 years now i beleive it has caused some thinning and scarring to some of my hair follicles. i have managed to keep it under control for a long time now by using medicated shampoos and keeping my hair short .although it does seem to get worse in the winter. Am i still able to have a hair transplant? Also how long after a hair transplant will i be able to go back to using medicated shampoos for my condision.thank you

Jae Pak, MD · Answer

Seborrheic dermatitis does not cause male pattern balding.   You should see a doctor for an exam.  Seborrheic dermatitis is not a contraindication for hair transplant surgery.

Jon E. Mendelsohn, MD, FACS · Answer

We typically have had success with this condition. The key is to get the hair transplant completed during a time when you are not having symptoms etc... and 10 days afterwards.You can use medicated shampoo from day 10 on however, you have to make sure you are doing this under the guidance of your hair doc. These products can be very harsh and potentially harmful to your hair.

Jeff Donovan, MD, PhD · Answer

Seb derm does not usually cause scarring (rare rare) but does get worse in certains seasons and with stress and some medications.Most people don't use shampoos long enough when they shower and frequently enough. Whe acting up, 2-3 times weekly letting sit 3-5 minutes is key. In this situation, using 2 antidandruff shampoos is helpful. Studies suggest that periodic use of a topical steroid can further quiet things down. I particularly like the clobetasol shampoosIn fact. a 2011 study showed that adding clobetasol shampoo to a typical antidandruff routine provided an even greater reduction in disease severity.  A low incidence of side effects was seen.With a story such as yours, I usually recommend that patients get their scalp in good shape before the transplant. These shampoos can be used after 3-4 weeks.Reference to study:Ortonne et al. Efficacious and safe management of miderate to severe scalp seborrheic dermatitis using clobetasol proprionate shampoo 0.05 % combined with ketoconazole shampoo 2%:  a randomized controlled study. Br J Dermatol 2011

Michael Meshkin, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

You can still have hair transplant if you have dry scalp, or dry hair or seborehtic dermatitis.  You need to use the right shampoo and follow the post op care during the healing process.

William Rassman, MD (retired) · Answer

This condition is not uncommon and it will not stop you from having a hair transplant. Some people think that this condition causes hair loss, but that is an 'old wives tale'. I have written extensively about this condition which you can see in the web reference below

I suffer from scalp seborrhoeic dermatitis, can I still have a hair transplant?

Answers (5)