Patient Guide2 min read

Scalp Health and Hair Transplant: Conditions That Must Be Treated First

Certain scalp conditions must be identified and treated before hair transplant. A guide to seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis, scalp infections, and other conditions affecting candidacy.

By Dr. Hamid Aydın's Team·2026-12-01
Scalp Health and Hair Transplant: Conditions That Must Be Treated First

Scalp health is an important but often overlooked aspect of hair transplant candidacy. Certain active scalp conditions must be identified, treated, and controlled before transplantation — proceeding with an inflamed or infected scalp risks poor graft survival and post-operative complications.

Seborrheic Dermatitis

Seborrheic dermatitis (dandruff at its milder end; more severe scalp inflammation at its more serious end) is extremely common. Mild, controlled seborrheic dermatitis does not contraindicate transplantation, but active flares should be controlled with medicated shampoos (ketoconazole, zinc pyrithione, selenium sulfide) before the procedure. Post-transplant, the medicated shampoo programme is adjusted to avoid disturbing grafts.

Scalp Psoriasis

Active scalp psoriasis plaques in the transplant zones (recipient or donor) create a challenging surgical environment. Psoriasis can trigger the Koebner phenomenon — where new psoriasis lesions appear at sites of skin trauma or injury. This can affect graft survival and healing. Psoriasis should be in remission or well-controlled before transplantation; coordination with a dermatologist is advisable.

Tinea Capitis (Fungal Infection)

Any active fungal infection must be treated and confirmed clear before transplantation. Systemic antifungal treatment is required (topical alone is not sufficient).

Folliculitis

Active scalp folliculitis (infected hair follicles) must be fully resolved before transplantation. The underlying cause should be identified and treated.

Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia and Lichen Planopilaris

These scarring alopecias cause inflammation that destroys follicles. Transplanting into an area with active scarring alopecia leads to destruction of transplanted follicles. These conditions must be confirmed in stable remission before transplantation — and often patients are advised to wait at least 2 years of stability.

Scalp Assessment as Part of Consultation

A thorough scalp assessment — and often trichoscopy — is part of our pre-operative evaluation to identify any conditions requiring treatment before proceeding.

Scalp health assessment is an important part of every consultation. Our team will identify any conditions that need to be addressed before your transplant.

Further Reading

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