Autoimmune Conditions and Flare-Ups in Skin & Scalp Health

  • Alopecia

    Hair loss caused by immune attack on hair follicles.

  • Psoriasis

    Accelerated skin cell turnover causing red, scaly plaques.

  • Eczema

    Inflammatory skin condition that causes itching, dryness, and flaky patches. Can overlap with autoimmune triggers, increasing barrier sensitivity.

  • Vitiligo

    Loss of pigment in patches due to immune attack on melanocytes.

  • Graves / Hashimotos Disease

    Autoimmune thyroid diseases. Can affect skin and hair through hormonal imbalance.

  • Celiac Disease

    Immune reaction to gluten, may cause dermatitis herpetiformis, itchy bumps on elbows, knees, or scalp.

Typical Signs of Flare-Ups

  • Sudden redness or inflammation

  • Itching, burning, or irritation

  • Increased scaling, flaking, or dryness

  • Hair shedding or thinning on the scalp

  • Painful or sensitive skin in affected areas

Key Triggers for Flare-Ups

  • Stress and hormonal changes: Can activate immune responses.

  • Environmental factors: Extreme heat, cold, or sun exposure.

  • Skincare products: Strong acids, retinoids, fragrances, or alcohol-based products.

  • Diet or medication changes: Certain foods or medications may exacerbate inflammation.

  • Physical trauma: Over-exfoliation, aggressive brushing, or scalp treatments.

Skincare Strategies During Flare-Ups

  • Simplify your routine: Use gentle, fragrance-free cleansers and moisturisers.

  • Barrier repair: Ingredients like ceramides, squalane, panthenol, and colloidal oatmeal help strengthen the skin.

  • Soothing and anti-inflammatory actives: Centella asiatica, aloe vera, bisabolol.

  • Avoid triggers: Stop exfoliants, retinoids, strong acids, or other irritants until flare resolves.

  • Hydration is key: Humectants like hyaluronic acid or glycerin support skin hydration.

Scalp Care During Flare-Ups

  • Use gentle, non-stripping shampoos

  • Avoid sulfates, fragrances, and harsh surfactants

  • Limit heat styling and tight hairstyles

  • Consider medicated or barrier-supportive scalp treatments under professional guidance

  • Treat hair loss or shedding gently: avoid vigorous brushing or chemical treatments

In-Clinic Support

  • LED therapy: Reduces inflammation and promotes healing.

  • Barrier-repair facials and scalp treatments: Hydrate, calm, and protect sensitive areas.

  • Microneedling or light resurfacing: Only when skin/scalp is stable.

  • Targeted treatments for hair loss: Immune-mediated hair loss may benefit from polynucleotides, PRP, or other clinically appropriate interventions.

When to Seek Professional Advice

  • Flare-ups are frequent, severe, or worsening

  • Signs of infection (oozing, crusting, redness spreading)

  • Rapid hair loss or scalp inflammation

  • Pain, irritation, or compromised barrier persists despite gentle care

Professional assessment ensures a safe, tailored approach to both skincare and scalp health while minimising the risk of aggravating an autoimmune flare.