Does active folliculitus decalvans disqualify a patient's candidacy for hair restoration? (Photos)

Question

My diagnosis is folliculitus decalvans. It started in 2000 and has worsens with time. I'm balding and have bleeding sores with puss and crust that do not respond to minocycline, doxycycline, clindamycin (oral and topical), rifampicin, tretinoin, cephalexin, clobetasol, or accutane. The only other recommended alternative is dapsone. My confidence is ruined and anxiety is through the roof. Is hair restoration even an option for me?

Jeff Donovan, MD, PhD · Answer

A hair transplant is not an option for an individual with active folliculitis decalvans. Unfortunately it would not work and likely would flare things worse.

William Rassman, MD (retired) · Answer

Folliculitis Decalvans is a terribly aggressive disease. I have seen this appear in a couple of patients over the past 27 years in practice and it is difficult to manage,  I would consider an alternative, like Scalp Micropigmentation which will not be aggravated by this disease.  You seem to keep your hair cut short and that means that you would be an excellent candidate for this procedure as it will cover all of the scarring your have on your scalp.

Does active folliculitus decalvans disqualify a patient's candidacy for hair restoration? (Photos)

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Does active folliculitus decalvans disqualify a patient's candidacy for hair restoration? (Photos)

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Everything you need to know about Hair Loss Treatment

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.