Hair, Skin & Rash
Hair & Scalp Conditions — Online Evaluation & Treatment
Thinning hair. An itchy, flaky, or irritated scalp. Patches of hair loss that showed up suddenly. Hair and scalp concerns affect people of all ages and backgrounds, and most of them have identifiable causes and real treatment options. A licensed provider can help you understand what's going on and what to do about it.
Start a VisitAbout hair & scalp health
💬 Hair and scalp concerns are more common than most people realize — and more treatable
Hair loss, scalp irritation, and related conditions are among the most common concerns people quietly carry for months before seeking care. Partly because they feel cosmetic. Partly because it's not clear where to start. And partly because many people don't realize how much a clinical evaluation can actually help.
Hair and scalp conditions cover a wide range — from dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis to pattern hair loss, scalp psoriasis, fungal infections, and hair loss tied to hormonal changes, nutritional deficiencies, or medical conditions. Many of these are very treatable once properly identified. The challenge is that several of them look similar on the surface, which is why an evaluation matters before reaching for a product that may not be addressing the right cause.
What we evaluate and treat
Scalp conditions including dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, scalp psoriasis, and scalp eczema. Hair loss related to pattern baldness, hormonal changes, nutritional factors, stress, and medication effects. Scalp infections and inflammatory conditions. A licensed provider will review your symptoms and history to identify the most likely cause and recommend appropriate treatment. Some presentations require in-person or specialist care, and your provider will guide you clearly if that applies to your situation.
- →Getting the right evaluation matters. Itchy, flaky scalp can be dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, scalp psoriasis, or a fungal infection — and each one is treated differently. Similarly, hair loss can have many contributing causes. A provider evaluation helps identify which applies to you before treatment begins.
- →Hair loss is often connected to something else. Thyroid disorders, hormonal changes, iron deficiency, significant stress, and certain medications are all common contributors to hair loss that look similar to genetic pattern hair loss. Identifying and addressing contributing causes is part of a thorough evaluation.
- →Earlier is usually better for hair loss. Most hair loss treatments work best while follicles are still active. If hair loss has been a concern for a while, earlier evaluation gives more options.
Conditions we evaluate
📋 Hair & scalp conditions — what they look and feel like
These conditions share overlapping symptoms but have different causes and respond to different treatments. Here's a guide to help you recognize what you may be dealing with.
| Condition | What it looks and feels like | Who it typically affects |
|---|---|---|
| Dandruff Pityriasis capitis |
White or yellowish flakes on the scalp and in the hair. Scalp may feel itchy or slightly oily. Flakes tend to be dry and fall easily. Generally mild and manageable. | Very common — affects roughly half of adults at some point. More common in men and tends to peak in young adulthood. |
| Seborrheic Dermatitis | Oily, yellowish or white scaling on the scalp, which may extend to the eyebrows, sides of the nose, ears, or chest. More inflamed and stubborn than typical dandruff. Scalp may appear red and feel itchy or sore. Tends to come and go. | Affects people of all ages, including infants (as cradle cap). Associated with a yeast called Malassezia that lives on the skin. Can be triggered or worsened by stress, cold weather, or illness. |
| Scalp Psoriasis | Thick, silvery-white scale on a red or pink base. Can appear in patches or cover large areas. May extend past the hairline. Scalp may feel dry, tight, or itchy. Scratching can cause bleeding and temporary hair loss. | Affects people with psoriasis — roughly 3% of the population. Scalp is one of the most common sites. Often the first or only location affected. |
| Scalp Eczema Atopic dermatitis of the scalp |
Dry, itchy, sometimes inflamed patches. May weep or crust in more severe cases. Often occurs alongside eczema elsewhere on the body. | More common in people with a personal or family history of eczema, asthma, or allergic rhinitis. Can occur at any age. |
| Male Pattern Hair Loss Androgenetic alopecia |
Gradual thinning at the temples, crown, or both. Follows a predictable pattern. Hair thins rather than falling out in patches. Very common and generally progressive without treatment. | Affects approximately half of men by age 50. Influenced by genetics and the hormone DHT. For detailed information and treatment options, see our dedicated Hair Loss page. |
| Female Pattern Hair Loss Androgenetic alopecia in women |
Diffuse thinning across the top of the scalp, often most noticeable at the part line. The hairline generally stays intact. Less predictable in pattern than male hair loss. Can be distressing and is frequently undertreated. | Very common — affects up to half of women at some point in their lives, particularly after menopause. Hormonal changes, including those during perimenopause and menopause, are a major contributing factor. See our Menopause & Hormonal Health page for more on hormonal hair loss in women. |
| Telogen Effluvium | Diffuse shedding across the whole scalp — noticeably more hair than usual coming out in the shower, on a brush, or on a pillow. Often sudden and distressing. Usually follows a significant physiological trigger by a few weeks to months. | Affects both men and women. Common triggers include illness, surgery, significant weight loss, extreme stress, childbirth, and nutritional deficiency. Often improves after the trigger resolves, though recovery takes time. |
| Alopecia Areata | Smooth, round patches of sudden, complete hair loss. Can affect the scalp, beard, eyebrows, or other body hair. The skin in the patches looks normal. Can be limited to one area or spread. | An autoimmune condition affecting people of all ages and backgrounds. Can come and go unpredictably. Associated with thyroid disease in some patients. Requires in-person dermatology evaluation for diagnosis and treatment. |
| Tinea Capitis Scalp ringworm |
Scaly, itchy patches of hair loss on the scalp. May have broken hair stubs. More common in children but can occur in adults. A painful, boggy, swollen scalp lesion (kerion) requires prompt in-person care as it can cause permanent scarring. | A fungal infection requiring systemic antifungal treatment. Not addressable with topical antifungals alone. Requires in-person evaluation and possibly fungal testing. |
| Hair Loss from Systemic Causes | Diffuse thinning or shedding that may not follow a clear pattern. May be accompanied by other symptoms depending on the underlying cause — fatigue, weight changes, cold sensitivity (thyroid), or changes in menstrual patterns (hormonal). | Can affect anyone. Thyroid disorders, iron deficiency, nutritional deficiencies, hormonal imbalances, and medication side effects are among the most common systemic causes of hair loss. Testing helps identify which applies. |
When to seek in-person or specialist evaluation
See a dermatologist in person for: sudden patchy hair loss in round or irregular shapes (possible alopecia areata); painful, swollen, draining, or boggy scalp lesions (possible kerion — can cause permanent scarring); hair loss with significant scalp inflammation, bleeding, or skin changes; extensive hair loss affecting large areas of the body; and hair or scalp conditions that have not responded to appropriate treatment. Some conditions cannot be diagnosed accurately without in-person examination, dermoscopy, or biopsy.
Not sure what you're dealing with? A licensed provider can review your symptoms and help identify the most likely cause.
Start a VisitTreatment overview
💊 How hair & scalp conditions are treated
Treatment depends entirely on what's causing your symptoms. A provider evaluation helps identify the right category before any treatment is recommended. Here's a general picture of how common conditions are typically approached.
| Condition | General treatment approach |
|---|---|
| Dandruff | Medicated shampoos are the first-line approach. Several OTC options are available. For persistent or more stubborn dandruff, prescription-strength treatments may be more effective. Your provider can advise on what's most appropriate for your situation. |
| Seborrheic Dermatitis | Antifungal shampoos or topicals address the Malassezia yeast that contributes to the condition. Prescription anti-inflammatory treatments may be added for more inflamed presentations. Seborrheic dermatitis is a chronic condition that tends to flare and remit — ongoing maintenance treatment is often part of the plan. |
| Scalp Psoriasis | Medicated shampoos, topical steroids, vitamin D-based topicals, and other prescription treatments are the mainstay of scalp psoriasis management. Moderate-to-severe scalp psoriasis or psoriasis affecting other areas of the body may benefit from dermatology involvement. |
| Scalp Eczema | Topical corticosteroids are commonly used for flares. Emollient-based shampoos and gentle scalp care help reduce dryness and irritation between flares. Trigger identification and avoidance is part of a longer-term management approach. |
| Male and Female Pattern Hair Loss | FDA-approved medications are available and work best when started while hair loss is still active. Treatment options differ somewhat between men and women. Your provider will discuss what's appropriate based on your specific presentation, health history, and goals. For detailed information on male pattern hair loss treatment, see our Hair Loss page. For hair loss related to hormonal changes in women, see our Menopause & Hormonal Health page. |
| Telogen Effluvium | The primary goal is identifying and addressing the underlying trigger — whether that's a nutritional deficiency, thyroid condition, medication effect, or other cause. Shedding usually slows once the trigger resolves, though recovery takes time. Testing is often part of the evaluation to identify contributing factors. |
| Scalp Infections (Tinea Capitis) | Requires oral antifungal medication — topical antifungals are not sufficient for tinea capitis. Testing may be needed to confirm the diagnosis. In-person evaluation is recommended, particularly when there is significant inflammation or pain. |
The evaluation comes before the treatment
The right treatment depends on the right diagnosis. An itchy, flaky scalp can look the same whether it's dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis, or a fungal infection — but each requires a different approach. A provider visit helps you avoid weeks of using something that isn't addressing the actual cause.
A licensed provider can help identify the right approach for your specific condition.
Start a VisitHow online care works
💻 What telehealth can do for hair & scalp concerns
Many hair and scalp conditions are well-suited for telehealth evaluation. A clear description of your symptoms combined with photos often provides enough information for a licensed provider to assess the likely cause and recommend appropriate treatment. Photos are especially useful for scalp and hair conditions.
| What telehealth can do | What may require in-person or specialist care |
|---|---|
| Evaluate scalp symptoms (flaking, inflammation, itching, scaling) using photos and symptom description to assess likely cause | Dermoscopy, scalp biopsy, or fungal testing for atypical or uncertain presentations |
| Prescribe prescription medicated shampoos, topical treatments, and other scalp medications when appropriate | In-person evaluation for painful, draining, or boggy scalp lesions |
| Evaluate hair loss patterns, review contributing factors, and discuss appropriate treatment options | Tinea capitis requiring oral antifungal — in-person evaluation and possible fungal testing recommended |
| Order lab work to screen for thyroid disease, iron deficiency, hormonal factors, or other systemic causes when indicated | Alopecia areata, extensive or treatment-resistant hair loss — dermatology referral appropriate |
| Provide referral guidance when in-person dermatology evaluation is more appropriate | Hair transplant or platelet-rich plasma therapy consultations — in-person specialist required |
- →📸 Photos make a real difference. For scalp and hair conditions, a clear photo of the affected area in good lighting is one of the most useful things you can provide. Include the scalp surface, any scaling or redness, and the overall hair distribution if hair loss is a concern.
- →🏪 Prescription sent to your pharmacy when appropriate. When prescription treatment is clinically appropriate, it may be sent electronically to the pharmacy you choose. Availability, cost, and insurance coverage vary.
- →⏰ No dermatology waitlist for an initial evaluation. Available 8am–8pm ET, every day.
- →💰 No required membership. Pay per visit. No subscription needed to start.
★★★★★ Patient review
"I had been dealing with a really itchy, flaky scalp for months and assumed it was just dandruff. My provider looked at my photos and said it sounded more like seborrheic dermatitis and prescribed something appropriate. The difference was noticeable within two weeks."
Patient, MyPhysician360 — Individual results, diagnoses, and outcomes vary.
What to expect
🗓️ Your visit, start to finish
|
1
Describe your symptoms
You'll answer questions about your scalp and hair symptoms — what you're noticing, how long it's been going on, whether anything makes it better or worse, and your relevant health history including current medications, recent stressors, and any other conditions. Submit photos of the affected area if possible. |
2
Provider evaluation
A licensed provider reviews your intake and photos to assess the most likely cause of your symptoms. They consider whether additional testing — such as thyroid or iron levels — would be helpful, and whether your situation is appropriate for telehealth management or would benefit from in-person evaluation. |
3
Assessment and plan
Your provider explains what they think is most likely going on and recommends an approach. If prescription treatment is appropriate, it may be sent to your pharmacy. They'll also advise on what to watch for, when to follow up, and any lifestyle or routine changes that support the treatment. |
4
Follow up as needed
Some scalp conditions are chronic and benefit from ongoing management. Others resolve with a single course of treatment. Your provider will advise on the appropriate follow-up timeline for your situation. If symptoms aren't improving as expected, follow up — the diagnosis or treatment approach may need to be reconsidered. |
What to tell your provider for the most useful evaluation
How long the condition has been present and whether it's getting better, worse, or staying the same. Whether the scalp is itchy, painful, or both. Whether you notice more hair shedding than usual. Any recent life changes — significant stress, illness, surgery, weight loss, or change in medication. Your family history of hair loss if relevant. Any products you currently use on your scalp or hair, and anything you've already tried.
Care connected to your pharmacy
🏪 Your prescription. Your pharmacy.
When prescription treatment is clinically appropriate, it may be sent electronically to the pharmacy you use. Many prescription scalp and hair loss medications are widely available and commonly affordable in generic form. Cost, insurance coverage, and dispensing time vary by pharmacy and medication.
- ✓Prescription sent electronically to your pharmacy when clinically appropriate
- ✓Many scalp and hair loss medications available in generic form
- ✓HSA and FSA eligible visits — check with your plan administrator for eligibility
- ✓No required membership to start a visit
- ✓If we can't help you online, you won't be charged
Frequently asked questions
❓ Questions about hair & scalp conditions
How do I know if my flaky scalp is dandruff or something else?
Dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, and scalp psoriasis all produce flaking and can look similar at first glance. Dandruff tends to produce dry, white flakes with mild itching and responds well to OTC medicated shampoos. Seborrheic dermatitis typically produces oilier, yellowish scaling that may extend beyond the scalp to the face and ears, and tends to be more persistent. Scalp psoriasis produces thicker, drier, silvery-white scale on a red base and may extend past the hairline. If OTC dandruff shampoos haven't made a meaningful difference after consistent use, or if the condition is inflamed or spreading, a provider evaluation is worth doing to identify what's actually going on.
Why is my hair falling out more than usual?
Increased hair shedding has many possible causes, and identifying the right one matters before starting any treatment. Common causes include telogen effluvium — a shedding pattern triggered by significant physical or emotional stress, illness, surgery, or rapid weight loss — as well as thyroid disorders, iron deficiency, nutritional deficiencies, hormonal changes (particularly around pregnancy and menopause in women), and medication side effects. Genetic pattern hair loss is another common cause, but it tends to show a more gradual, patterned progression rather than sudden diffuse shedding. A provider evaluation can help identify what's most likely contributing for you.
I'm a woman and my hair is thinning. What could be causing it?
Female hair thinning has a wide range of causes, and it's common for more than one to be contributing at the same time. Hormonal changes associated with perimenopause and menopause are among the most frequent contributors, as declining estrogen can affect the hair growth cycle. Female pattern hair loss (androgenetic alopecia) is also very common. Thyroid conditions, iron deficiency, and nutritional factors are frequently involved and are worth testing for. Postpartum shedding after pregnancy is another common pattern that typically resolves on its own. A provider evaluation — including lab work when indicated — helps identify which factors are at play. For hair thinning related to hormonal changes during menopause, our Menopause & Hormonal Health page has more detail.
Can telehealth help with hair loss or do I need to see a dermatologist?
Many common hair and scalp concerns can be effectively evaluated through telehealth — particularly when the pattern is consistent with a common condition like seborrheic dermatitis, pattern hair loss, or shedding related to a systemic cause. A telehealth provider can review your symptoms, recommend or order relevant lab work, and prescribe appropriate treatment when indicated. Some presentations do require in-person evaluation — particularly sudden patchy hair loss, significant scalp inflammation, or hair loss that hasn't responded to appropriate treatment. If your case falls into that category, your provider will tell you clearly and coordinate a referral.
What's the difference between hair loss and hair shedding?
Everyone sheds hair daily as part of the normal hair growth cycle. The average person loses roughly 50 to 100 hairs per day, and this is normal. Hair loss refers to a condition where the growth cycle is disrupted or the follicle is affected in a way that prevents hair from growing back. Shedding that's noticeably more than usual, particularly if it's sudden and involves large amounts coming out in the shower or on a brush, is worth evaluating — but it doesn't always indicate permanent hair loss. Many cases of increased shedding are temporary and reversible once the contributing cause is identified and addressed.
My scalp is itchy and I've tried multiple dandruff shampoos without much improvement. What should I do?
Persistent scalp itching that doesn't respond to OTC dandruff shampoos suggests the underlying cause may not be simple dandruff. Seborrheic dermatitis, scalp psoriasis, scalp eczema, and contact dermatitis (a reaction to a hair product or dye) all cause scalp itching and all require a different treatment approach. A telehealth provider can review your symptoms and photos to assess which is most likely, and recommend prescription treatment or an in-person evaluation if the picture isn't clear from history alone.
Is this visit HSA or FSA eligible?
Visits may be eligible for HSA or FSA payment. Check with your plan administrator regarding eligibility and documentation requirements.
Ready to figure out what's going on with your hair or scalp?
A licensed provider will review your symptoms, help identify the most likely cause, and recommend appropriate next steps. When prescription treatment is appropriate, it may be sent to your pharmacy. No waiting room, no required membership.
HSA & FSA eligible | No required membership | No charge if we can't help
Medical disclaimer & sources: The information on this page is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Treatment requires clinical evaluation by a licensed provider. Hair and scalp conditions with atypical features, sudden patchy hair loss, painful or inflammatory scalp lesions, or presentations that have not responded to appropriate treatment require in-person evaluation by a dermatologist. Tinea capitis requires oral antifungal treatment and in-person evaluation. Some hair and scalp conditions cannot be accurately diagnosed without in-person examination, dermoscopy, or biopsy. Individual results, diagnoses, and outcomes vary. Prescription availability, cost, insurance coverage, and dispensing time vary by pharmacy. Visits may be eligible for HSA or FSA payment. MyPhysician360 services are available in most states. Services are not currently available in Mississippi or Alaska.