Which doctor is best for scalp problems?

Author: Katelyn Reichel  |  Last update: Thursday, September 11, 2025

If a scalp or hair disorder is accompanied by pain, sensitivity, burning, or itching, consult a board-certified dermatologist as soon as possible.

What type of doctor to see for scalp issues?

You'll want to consult a dermatologist, particularly one specializing in hair and scalp conditions, known as a trichologist. They can assess your hair type, texture, and overall hair health, providing tailored advice and treatment options.

What autoimmune disease attacks the scalp?

Classified as an autoimmune disease, alopecia areata is the product of a person's immune system attacking their own hair follicles, causing hair to fall out.

Is it better to see a trichologist or dermatologist?

See a certified trichologist. Like a licensed esthetician, a certified trichologist is a specialty. They are much better at diagnosing and treating problems related to hair and your scalp, and their knowledge is superior to that of a dermatologist.

How do I get my scalp checked?

If you find yourself with a chronic scalp issue, it's best to schedule an appointment with a trichologist or dermatologist to help determine the causes of those concerns and discover the right treatment plan for you.

How to Get Rid of Dandruff Once and for All

Where do I go if I have scalp problems?

Dermatologists can help people who have itching, scaling, hair loss, and bleeding due to scalp psoriasis. When you see a dermatologist, you receive a treatment plan tailored to your individual needs. Often a treatment plan will include more than one treatment.

Does insurance cover trichologists?

Unfortunately, most insurance companies will not cover blood work for hair loss or visits to a trichologist, however you should check with your provider to be sure. Just like any medical professional, it's important to find a trichologist who understands your needs.

Do dermatologists check your scalp?

A dermatologist examines your scalp to check for inflammation, redness, sores, or scarring. The doctor looks closely at your hair to determine how much is being lost, the pattern of the hair loss, and whether there is hair breakage.

Is it worth going to a trichologist?

Excessive hair loss, dandruff, baldness, itchy scalp or other ailments can significantly affect our well-being and self-confidence. In such cases, it is worth considering visiting a trichologist – a specialist who diagnoses and treats hair and scalp problems.

What does lupus look like on the scalp?

Discoid lupus causes round, coin-shaped lesions (sores). The sores most commonly develop on your scalp and face, but they may show up on other parts of your body. Discoid lesions typically do not hurt or itch. They may be scaly, thick or red.

What is scalp sarcoidosis?

The clinical presentation of scalp sarcoidosis varies, but is typically characterized by atrophic, indurated, annular, scaly, erythematous plaques or nodules, frequently accompanied by alopecia (3,6).

What is a scalp problem called?

In adolescents and adults, seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp (dandruff) or the face and body is a condition that comes and goes throughout life.

How much is a dermatologist visit for scalp?

On average, initial consultation with a dermatologist may cost somewhere around $150 to $200. However, the cost will likely depend on the location of the provider and what you are seeking treatment for. There are other factors too that affect the cost of an appointment with the skin care doctor.

Who should get a scalp treatment?

Almost everyone can benefit from a regular scalp treatment, but if you're noticing scalp irritation, increased hair loss, or excessive oiliness or dryness, it's time to incorporate a scalp treatment into your routine.

What doctor do I go to for scalp issues?

Severe infections can lead to permanent hair loss and scarring, so it's important to consult your dermatologist when you suspect a scalp condition such as folliculitis. Oral medications and some antibiotic creams or lotions can be prescribed, if needed to solve this condition.

What not to say to a dermatologist?

Here are some common lies that people tell their dermatologists that you really shouldn't.
  • #1. “I Wear Sunscreen Everyday.” Sunscreen can be tricky. ...
  • #3. “I've Had This Mole Forever.” ...
  • #5. “I Wash My Face Every Day.” ...
  • #8. “I'm Not On Any Medications/Don't Take Any Supplements.”

Is a dermatologist covered by insurance?

Dermatology can be split into two broad categories: medical and cosmetic. Insurance usually covers medical dermatology, because it is related to the health of your skin. Cosmetic dermatology services aren't necessary to stay healthy, so you typically have to pay for them yourself.

How much does a Trichologist cost?

Depending on your area, and a few other variables that we will cover below, you can expect these appointments to cost around $100 up to $200 or more for an initial consultation if you will be paying out of pocket.

What kind of doctor do you see for hair loss?

Effective treatment for hair loss begins with finding the cause. To get an accurate diagnosis, it helps to see a board-certified dermatologist. These doctors have in-depth knowledge about the many causes of hair loss and experience treating the diverse causes.

Does insurance pay for hair loss treatment?

Insurance companies typically classify hair loss treatments such as hair transplants and other restoration procedures as cosmetic. Meaning, they are considered elective and not medically necessary. As a result, they are rarely covered under standard insurance plans.

What is a scalp specialist called?

A trichologist is a specialist who focuses on trichology — the study of diseases or problems related to the hair and scalp, as well as their treatments.

What is the most common scalp condition?

Hair loss. Hair loss, including thinning and breaking, is a common scalp problem. Most people lose from 50 to 100 hairs a day. Hair gradually thins as people age.

What is the best shampoo for seborrheic dermatitis?

Tar-based shampoos or Dermax (not tar-based) are good for keeping symptoms of flaking and scaling at bay, and they can be alternated with a ketoconazole shampoo. Tar-based shampoos include: Neutrogena T/Gel Therapeutic Shampoo. Capasal Therapeutic Shampoo.

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