Hair loss (alopecia) is a common symptom of lupus that can affect the hairline, scalp, eyelashes, and body hair. It can range from mild thinning to significant loss, with some people experiencing up to 100% hair loss in affected areas. Over 33,000 MyLupusTeam members have reported experiencing hair loss as part of their Show Full Answer
Hair loss (alopecia) is a common symptom of lupus that can affect the hairline, scalp, eyelashes, and body hair. It can range from mild thinning to significant loss, with some people experiencing up to 100% hair loss in affected areas. Over 33,000 MyLupusTeam members have reported experiencing hair loss as part of their condition.
Hair loss can be caused by:
• Lupus itself
• Medications used to treat lupus
• Disease activity If you're experiencing hair loss, it's important to discuss this with your doctor. They may:
• Perform a hair pull test to check shedding
• Do a scalp biopsy
• Order blood tests to determine the cause
• Adjust your medications if they're contributing to the hair loss
Treatment options may include topical steroids or adjusting your current medications. Remember to consult with your rheumatologist before trying any over-the-counter hair loss treatments, as they may interact with your lupus medications.
September 17, 2025