Eczema (atopic dermatitis) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition causing redness, dryness, and intense itching. It frequently affects the face, including the skin around and beneath the eyebrows. When eczema occurs here, the resulting inflammation and physical irritation can lead to eyebrow hair loss, medically termed madarosis. This loss results from the disruption of the normal hair growth cycle and physical trauma to the follicles.
How Eczema Leads to Eyebrow Hair Loss
The primary way eczema causes hair loss is through chronic inflammation, which disrupts the natural hair follicle cycle. Persistent inflammation prematurely pushes hair from the active growth phase (anagen) into the resting and shedding phases (catagen and telogen). This shift leads to increased hair shedding and thinning over time.
Physical trauma from scratching and rubbing is another significant factor. The intense itching associated with a flare-up leads to repetitive scratching, which physically damages the hair shaft and surrounding follicle. This mechanical stress causes hairs to break off or be pulled out entirely, resulting in noticeable patches of loss.
The compromised skin barrier function typical of eczema also contributes to the problem. Dry, cracked, and flaky skin around the eyebrows creates an unhealthy environment for hair growth. This vulnerability makes follicles less anchored and more susceptible to damage and shedding. This hair loss is often non-scarring, meaning regrowth is possible once the underlying inflammation is controlled.
Ruling Out Non-Eczema Causes of Eyebrow Hair Loss
Eyebrow hair loss can signal other underlying health issues, making a professional diagnosis important. The loss of hair from the outer third of the eyebrows is a classic symptom often associated with thyroid disorders, specifically hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid). Both an overactive and an underactive thyroid can disrupt metabolic balance and affect hair growth.
Autoimmune conditions, such as alopecia areata, are another common cause where the immune system attacks hair follicles, leading to patchy or complete hair loss. Fungal infections, like tinea capitis (ringworm), can also affect the eyebrow area, causing scaly, itchy patches and hair breakage. Physical habits like trichotillomania and nutritional deficiencies (zinc, iron, or biotin) can also result in eyebrow thinning.
Strategies for Managing Eyebrow Eczema and Promoting Regrowth
Managing eyebrow eczema focuses on controlling inflammation and restoring the skin barrier to stop hair shedding and encourage new growth. A foundational step involves using mild, fragrance-free cleansers and thick emollients to keep the skin hydrated. Ointments are effective at locking in moisture to soothe dry, non-inflamed patches of skin.
To halt the cycle of itching and scratching, non-pharmacological methods like applying a cold compress can help calm an acute flare-up. For active eczema, a healthcare provider may recommend topical medications. Low-potency topical corticosteroids are prescribed for short-term use to reduce inflammation, but they must be used cautiously on the sensitive skin around the eyes.
Another prescription option includes topical calcineurin inhibitors. These non-steroid medications manage inflammation and may be safer for long-term use on the face. The goal of treatment is to create a calm environment where the hair follicles can return to the active growth phase. Once the inflammation is managed, the hair loss is usually reversible, and hair regrowth can be expected within a few weeks to months.