Hair loss from relaxer scalp dermatitis
Hi everyone, when I was 17 I decided to put a relaxer in my hair stupidest thing. I’ve could’ve done. I started losing my hair. I lost almost half of it. My hair never returned to the same thickness that it was. It was pretty decent. Fast-forward 32 years later, my hair is shutting like crazy and I have really bad scalp dermatitis not really sure if this is because I’m 49 and we should hair like crazy or because of the dermatitis which has cleared up within two weeks but still losing hair does anyone have any thoughts?
I appreciate anyone who has gone through this and any suggestions or thoughts they may have
Hey there — first off, I just want to say you’re not alone in this. So many women experience exactly what you’re describing, especially after chemical treatments like relaxers. It can feel really discouraging to watch your hair change so much, especially when you’ve already been through a lot with it.
Given that you're 49, yes — some hair shedding can be hormone-related as you approach perimenopause or menopause. But combined with scalp dermatitis, it definitely sounds like there might be an inflammatory element making it worse. Even though the visible symptoms have cleared, the inflammation might still be affecting your follicles.
Here’s what’s helped others (including myself) in similar situations:
🔹 Scalp treatments: Something like PRP or mesotherapy for hair loss can be amazing for calming the scalp and stimulating new growth. I know someone who had post-relaxer hair loss and saw noticeable thickening after a few sessions.
🔹 Gentle daily routine: Try a sulphate-free shampoo with calming ingredients like tea tree or ketoconazole (anti-fungal, if your dermatitis was yeast-related). Avoid over-brushing or tight styles.
🔹 Scalp oils and massage: Rosemary oil + scalp massage 2–3 times a week helps a ton with circulation and follicle strength. You’ll see less breakage over time.
🔹 Get blood work done: Check your iron/ferritin, thyroid levels, vitamin D, and hormones — these all affect hair growth and health.
Your hair journey isn’t over — this might just be a new chapter. With some support (and maybe a little expert help), you can regain thickness and calm that shedding. ❤️ Happy to help you build a gentle recovery routine if you want.
I'm experiencing this also
I went to another derm MD she agreed my ferritin level very low and gave me script for iron supplement. Finally getting answers great doc who listens and cares.
thank you for coming here to share this very encouraging update! It can make a very big difference, when you feel that you have a doctor who listens to you, and provides care based on what your share. Hopefully this is the first step in your healing journey! Chava B. Wald, Moderator & Contributor
sometimes trying to identify what the cause/trigger is can take time and not always so simple. I didn't share in my previous post, that for a number of years I too was experiencing hair loss for what seemed like no obvious reason. I kept going to my doctor to check my bloodwork, to see that there was nothing to be concerned of. I didn't change a thing, and after about 4 years I am noticing that my hair loss has slowed down, and finally my hair is slowly growing back in. Please do check back in if you do have any updates that you feel comfortable sharing! Just know we are always here for you. Sending healing hugs Chava B. Wald, Moderator & Contributor You could be onto something. If you feel that your lower range ferrtin could be contributing to it, talk to your doctor about it. Remember, trust your gut, and speak up for yourself! Thinking of you. Chava B. Wald, Moderator & Contributor i agree definitely will ask
About ferrtin level
