By Loren Krueger, MD
March 2019

Frontal fibrosing alopecia, or FFA, is a scarring form of hair loss that commonly occurs at the frontal and temporal hairlines. Its incidence is increasing. As we learn more about FFA, we are beginning to identify additional skin and hair findings that are associated with FFA. FFA may involve loss of eyebrow and eyelash hair. Facial skin may have small, pinpoint bumps (papules) or texture change. Additionally, some individuals have noted a brown color change (hyperpigmentation) of the skin, especially  around the mouth or at the temples; this could represent lichen planus pigmentosus, a disorder of pigmentation that is seen in association with FFA. Discuss this with your dermatologist if you have any questions or concerns.

To read Dr. Krueger’s article on MDedge, please click here.