Infographic: Lupus and black hair

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Hair care tips to consider with lupus:

How to do more with less

• Keep your hair cut short to prevent breakage from extra weight.
• Shaped cuts with light layers to give the illusion of thickness (for fine/thin hair).

Trying a new style

• Make sure extensions and hairpieces aren't too tight — pulling on the scalp can cause more hair loss.
• Accessories like hats, wraps, and headscarves can help cover hair loss — and protect your scalp from ultraviolet (UV) light when you spend time outdoors.
• Wigs should be quality, breathable, comfortable, and not too tightly fitted.
• Only a professional should custom-fit a new wig unit to your head.
• Aim to buy wigs units made of human hair (not synthetic).

Changes to hair and scalp

• Over the counter (OTC) hair loss treatments (like Rogaine®) don't work for hair loss related to lupus. And dietary supplements that claim to make hair grow may cause problems with your lupus medicines. Always talk to your doctor before taking any new supplements or OTC treatments.
• If you have scarring on your scalp from lupus skin problems, hair may not grow back on those parts of your scalp. But treating lupus skin problems can protect the hair you still have, and help hair grow back in areas without scars.
• Use gentle hair products, like baby shampoo. Avoid using curlers, hot combs, or chemical treatments that can damage your hair.
• When seeing a new stylist or barber, always request a consultation first to discuss your specific issues.
• If you are experiencing severe thinning, hair loss, itching, discoloration (hyper/hypopigmentation), blistering on scalp, see a board certified dermatologist.

Find support

A support group can help connect you with others who understand the challenge of living with lupus and hair loss. Visit Lupus.org/support-groups