Seborrheic dermatitis & scalp-related hair loss
Flaking, redness, itch and an oily scalp aren't just uncomfortable. Ongoing scalp inflammation can add to shedding and make other hair loss treatments work less well — so we treat the scalp as part of every hair plan.
- 8 years of hair care
- Thousands of patients treated
- Includes a shampoo plan
When the scalp is inflamed
Seborrheic dermatitis is a common, long-term inflammatory skin condition linked to oil production and a yeast called Malassezia that lives on the skin. On the scalp it causes greasy yellow or white flakes, redness and itching, often flaring with stress, cold weather or skipped washing.
Seborrheic dermatitis doesn't usually cause permanent hair loss on its own, but inflammation and scratching can increase shedding, and it often appears alongside pattern hair loss. Psoriasis, contact dermatitis and some scarring conditions can look similar and need a different approach.
Looking closely at your scalp
Live HD trichoscopy shows what's happening at the skin and follicle level — things you can't see in a mirror.
- Flaking, redness and oil around the follicles
- Signs that suggest psoriasis or a scarring condition instead
- Pattern hair loss or shedding happening at the same time
- Your current shampoo and styling routine
- Bloodwork when shedding or other symptoms suggest it
60 minutes with a doctor
One of the most comprehensive hair analyses in Metro Vancouver — performed and led by a medical doctor, one-on-one and in private. $250 + GST.
- Medical history. Your health, family history, medications and what you've already tried.
- Live HD trichoscopy. A magnified, on-screen look at your scalp and follicles.
- Detailed scalp examination. Inflammation, oil, irritation and overall scalp health.
- Blood test of over 40 biomarkers. Hormones, thyroid, iron, nutrition and more.
- Your recommendations and plan. Shampoo, medical therapy, natural DHT-blocker options and in-clinic treatments — plus a detailed report with your images.
Treating the scalp and the hair
Calming the scalp usually starts with the right medicated shampoo and routine, recommended at your analysis. Once inflammation is under control, we treat any hair loss underneath.
Scalp care is included in every Monarch MD hair analysis — every patient leaves with a shampoo recommendation matched to their scalp.
What to expect
Flaking and itch often improve within a few weeks of the right routine. Seborrheic dermatitis tends to come back, so the goal is long-term control. Any hair loss treatment then follows the usual timeline, with the main results at 6–12 months.
Related guides
Every plan is overseen by Dr. Eli Akbari
Dr. Eli Akbari, MD, FRCSC is a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon (RCPSC and AAFPRS) trained at the University of British Columbia and the University of Toronto. Our hair program has been established for the past 8 years, and we have treated thousands of patients across Metro Vancouver.
- A scientific, evidence-based approach — treatment chosen from your test results
- A detailed report with your scalp and trichoscopy images
- Rated 4.9 from 495 Google reviews
Scalp and seborrheic dermatitis questions
Can seborrheic dermatitis cause hair loss?
It can increase shedding through inflammation and scratching, but it rarely causes permanent hair loss on its own. It often appears alongside other types of hair loss, which is why we examine the scalp closely.
Is it dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis?
Dandruff is a mild form of seborrheic dermatitis. Redness, greasy scales, itching and flares point to the fuller condition.
What shampoo is best for seborrheic dermatitis?
Medicated shampoos with ingredients such as ketoconazole, zinc pyrithione, selenium sulfide or salicylic acid are commonly used. The right one, and how often to use it, depends on your scalp — every analysis includes a shampoo recommendation.
Can I have hair loss treatments with an inflamed scalp?
We usually calm the scalp first. Treating inflammation can make other hair loss treatments more effective.
How do I get assessed?
Book a hair analysis: 60 minutes with a doctor, including live HD trichoscopy, a detailed scalp exam, a 40+ biomarker blood test and a detailed report with images. $250 + GST.
Find out what's causing your hair loss
One private hour with a doctor, a magnified look at your scalp, a 40+ biomarker blood test and a clear plan — with a detailed report and images after your visit.
Request a hair analysis$250 + GST · Only a few spots left this weekPrefer to call? 604-912-0600