If you have discoid lupus on your scalp, it can be uncomfortable, especially when it’s itchy, flaky, and painful. MyLupusTeam members frequently discuss their challenges in finding the best shampoo for their lupus. These difficulties can involve the frustration of trying different shampoos without guaranteed success because what works for one person might not work for another. Additionally, it can be tough to navigate the wide range of shampoos and find something that is gentle, effective, and appropriate for managing discoid lupus on the scalp.

“My problem that is driving me insane is flaky and itching scalp and skin. I noticed I also have a sore-like itch on the lower part of the back of my head. I have a tree tea oil shampoo and use a lavender shower gel, and it feels great for about an hour and then my head starts itching,” one MyLupusTeam member wrote.

What Is Discoid Lupus?

Discoid lupus, also known as discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE) or chronic cutaneous lupus, is the most common type of cutaneous (skin) lupus and affects the skin and scalp. Discoid lupus is characterized by skin lesions (sores or rashes) that are thick, scaly, circular, and about the size of a coin. About two-thirds of people with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), the most common type of lupus, have cutaneous lupus symptoms. Among MyLupusTeam members, 80 percent report skin rashes that may affect the scalp in some cases.

Like other types of lupus, discoid lupus is an autoimmune condition in which the immune system attacks healthy tissue. Complications from discoid lupus include scarring that can block hair follicles, thinning hair or hair loss (called alopecia), and an increased risk of skin cancer. Although discoid lupus is not typically associated with itching or pain, lupus-affected skin and scalp may be itchy or painful, and many people with discoid lupus report these symptoms.

As one member wrote, “Burning all over. Itching all over my face, scalp, and ears. I have discoid lupus.”

Finding the Best Shampoo

Each case of lupus, including discoid lupus, is unique and, like other autoimmune diseases, can affect individuals differently. A shampoo that works for one person may not be effective for someone else. It’s important to find the best shampoo for your particular condition.

If your scalp is affected by lupus, here are five tips to help you find a shampoo that is right for you.

1. Choose a Gentle Shampoo

Because of the risk of hair loss with discoid lupus, the Lupus Foundation of America recommends using very mild shampoos and hair products, such as baby shampoo.

One MyLupusTeam member shared their experience: “I have also lost a lot of hair. It has been going on for quite a while but seems to be leveling off some. I use Nioxin shampoo and conditioner and switch off with baby shampoo and a spray leave-in conditioner.”

Shampooing less frequently may also reduce some symptoms. “I do not shampoo every day either. I always rinse my hair in the shower to wet and style, but I don’t shampoo daily,” another member said.

2. Avoid Hair Products and Treatments With Harsh Chemicals

Treating your scalp with care also means avoiding harsh chemicals in shampoos and chemical hair treatments that may irritate or aggravate lesions on your scalp. For instance, hair dye and fragrances have been associated with lupus flare-ups and disease activity.

Even shampoo ingredients listed as “natural fragrance” may be made with chemicals that can irritate your scalp and skin. Make a habit out of checking ingredients in shampoos and discussing any unfamiliar ingredients with your rheumatologist or dermatologist.

For example, one of the most irritating ingredients found in many shampoos and cleansers is sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS). There are shampoos on the market that are SLS-free and a bit less irritating than those that contain this active ingredient. It’s always a good idea to read product labels, consult with a dermatologist, or conduct a patch test before using a new product if you have concerns about SLS or any other ingredient.

“​​Try to stay away from chemicals, perms, relaxers, bleach, developer, and harsh cleansers as found in a lot of shampoos, etc.,” a MyLupusTeam member suggested.

Another member had this advice: “The itching is a real issue. I’ve learned to stay away from sulfa (sulfate)-containing products. One line of products that works for me that has really helped is CeraVe. No sulfates or parabens. It is available at Walgreens.”

3. Look for Natural Ingredients That May Be Helpful

Some people find shampoos with natural substances such as coconut oil or aloe vera gel can help soothe their scalps. Natural therapies are sometimes called complementary therapies because they complement standard medical treatment plans.

“I have started to use Philip Kingsley Flaky Itchy Scalp Shampoo and it seems to work,” a MyLupusTeam member wrote. “It has aloe in it because it is a complementary therapy shampoo. Other shampoos like Head & Shoulders and Tresemme do not seem to work for my scalp.”

4. Always Test a New Shampoo

When trying a new shampoo or hair product, always test it first on a small area of affected scalp to see if you have an unpleasant reaction or inflammation. Testing a shampoo may not indicate how well a product works over time to relieve lupus symptoms, but it can help you determine if it makes any symptoms worse.

5. Talk to Your Doctor About Your Symptoms

Let your doctor know if you have symptoms on your scalp from discoid lupus that you are having difficulty controlling. Your doctor may refer you to a dermatologist if you don’t already see one. A dermatologist may recommend a shampoo or have advice about products to avoid. In some cases, your doctor may advise that you try a prescription shampoo or an ointment or lotion for your scalp.

Scalp symptoms can occur from medication side effects and from other types of cutaneous lupus that may cause an inflammatory reaction on the scalp. Your doctor may suggest tests to determine if anything other than discoid lupus is causing your scalp symptoms.

There is no clear evidence that dietary supplements can promote hair growth. Be sure to discuss any supplements with your doctor before taking them. Some supplements can interact poorly with medication and may have other adverse side effects.

Managing discoid lupus on the scalp requires finding the right shampoo to ease symptoms like itchiness, flaky scalp, and pain. By following these five tips, you can improve your chances of finding the best shampoo for your needs. Opt for gentle, fragrance-free shampoos that do not contain harsh chemicals. With the right shampoo and proper care, you can work toward finding relief and maintaining a healthier scalp.

Find Your Team

MyLupusTeam is the social network for people with lupus and their loved ones. On MyLupusTeam, more than 223,000 members come together to ask questions, give advice, and share their stories with others who understand life with lupus.

Have you found a shampoo that soothes your discoid lupus symptoms? Share your experience in the comments below, or start a conversation by posting on your Activities page.