Lichen Planopilaris Hair Loss Help
Over the last 20 years I have noticed an increase in women with Lichen Planopilaris which is similar to scarring alopecia that may be linked to autoimmune disorders. What separates LLP from other forms of hair loss is when hair sheds it is replaced by a scar and kills the hair follicle. It presents it self in patches in front of the hair line and/or through out the entire head. My clients with LLP experience extreme desperation and often see many physicians/dermatologists before diagnosed. Other forms of alopecia can go into remission and often hair growth is stimulated, but LLP takes quite some time, trial and error with medications and agony before it quiets down. It is also important to test for autoimmune disorders since there may be a correlation.
Often clients complain of itchiness, inflammation and sometimes pain on their scalp and this is when it is important to seek medical attention. A diagnosis is often given by a dermatologist after a scalp biopsy and once diagnosed the goal is to keep hair loss at bay.
Some good news; after 6 months +/- of taking the below medicines, the hair loss may slow down or cease. Many of our clients seek aesthetic help at this point (not during active shedding) and we can help with hair pieces and wigs. Medications often prescribed:
Topical & oral steroids, tetracyclines, plaquenil, methotrexate, calcineurin inhibitors, and others.
Often with a diagnosis of Lichen Planopilaris or alopecia, insurance providers will cover some or all of a scalp prosthesis or wig. It is important to check with your insurance provider to see if you have coverage, receive a prescription from your physician and we give the proper paperwork to you. Many providers want proof of payment and then you will seek reimbursement. It is always important to seek a free and private consultation where you can feel comfortable sharing your journey;
It is my goal to not interfere with the medical treatment plan your physician prescribes, but once LLP is stable then we address the aesthetic by providing beautiful natural looking hair.
