Thinning hair is a really common concern with lupus, and there are several approaches worth exploring. The most important first step is getting lupus activity under control — when the disease is well-managed, hair loss often improves too.
Here are some gentle hair care habits that can help prevent further thinning:
- Use mild Show Full Answer
Thinning hair is a really common concern with lupus, and there are several approaches worth exploring. The most important first step is getting lupus activity under control — when the disease is well-managed, hair loss often improves too.
Here are some gentle hair care habits that can help prevent further thinning:
- Use mild products like baby shampoo and leave-in conditioner
- Avoid heat styling tools, chemical treatments, and alcohol-based products
- Keep hairstyles loose — avoid tight buns or braids
- Try coconut oil as a natural conditioner to reduce breakage
- Protect your scalp from UV light with hats, scarves, or SPF products Some MyLupusTeam members have had success with supplements like biotin (vitamin B7) and folic acid. One member shared, "I take the max dose of biotin every day and it has helped tremendously, along with fish oil, vitamin D and C, and a multivitamin."
That said, always check with your rheumatologist before starting any supplement — some OTC products can actually interfere with lupus medications. On the medical side, a dermatologist or rheumatologist may suggest options like:
- Topical steroids (e.g., clobetasol) to encourage regrowth
- Steroid injections into the scalp
- DHEA (by prescription only — note that men with lupus are advised not to take DHEA)
- Adjusting any current medications that may be contributing to hair loss
If you're unsure what's causing the thinning, your doctor can do a hair pull test, scalp biopsy, or blood tests to help figure it out. Worth bringing up at your next appointment! 😊
August 30
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