Amelia Grant

Scalp psoriasis is a scaly, silvery coating on the scalp. Itching and discomfort are common symptoms of this illness. Scratching your scalp will aggravate the problem and may result in temporary hair loss, which can be upsetting.

Treatment might help you manage your psoriasis on the scalp. A doctor can suggest a number of therapy alternatives that will clear it up in a few months. Your scalp irritation and hair loss should be reduced as a result of these therapies.

Hair loss can be caused by scalp psoriasis, although this does not mean you need a hair transplant. 

Scratching your head can help reduce itching caused by scaling. It's possible that your hair will fall out as a result of this. Hair loss can occur as a result of methods for removing scales forcefully to cure psoriasis.

Because of the thickness of the skin on the scalp and hair, scalp psoriasis often necessitates therapies that differ from those used on other parts of the body. So, before you reach for any lotions or pills, here are some do's and don'ts when it comes to scalp psoriasis.

Do Investigate symptoms

Despite the fact that half of psoriasis patients experience symptoms on their scalp, many mistakes the white flakes for dandruff and wait until the illness becomes severe to seek treatment. And it might be a difficult condition to handle at that stage.

Do use shampoos that contain tar or salicylic acid

For decades, tar has been shown useful as a psoriasis therapy, but applying it is dirty, effort consuming, and results take time. Salicylic acid is also effective, but if left on the scalp for too long, it might cause temporary hair loss. Scale softeners sold over the counter can also be applied to the scalp to help release scales. The disadvantage is that, while these products can assist with psoriasis, they can also dry out your hair.

Do not use harmful chemicals

Many people use relaxers to straighten their hair for years, but the chemicals eventually proved too harsh for the scalp to endure. So it’s a good idea to quit using relaxers. Even if you don't use relaxers or perms, you could still be utilizing chemicals that are excessively harsh for your scalp.

Do use natural products

The greatest natural hair and scalp products frequently contain components that you can also eat. My grandma used apple cider vinegar to oil my scalp when I was a kid since it can assist with infections and scaling. Olive oil, coconut oil, and avocado are some more scalp-friendly products.

Do not use hot water

The scalp, like the rest of your body, can be damaged by hot water. It can also make your disease worse by drying out your skin and making you more prone to flare-ups. Try lukewarm water for scalp psoriasis, as recommended by nurses years ago.

Do consult a doctor before you use meds for your body or scalp

Just because something can be used on your body doesn't mean it can't be used on your head. According to the NPF, a range of topicals are safe for both the body and the scalp, including anthralin, Dovonex, Taclonex, and Tazorac. Also, unless recommended by a doctor, do not use anything indicated for the scalp on your body.

Do not wear dark colored shirts

It's vital to wear whatever feels comfortable, whether dark or light, however, some people avoid dark colors since it can cause flakes to become more visible. Flakes can be camouflaged or reduced in appearance by wearing lighter-colored clothing or shirts with designs.

Do not be afraid to speak up about symptoms and treatment options

If you see plaques on your scalp, contact your doctor right once. Ignoring these signs and symptoms may aggravate the condition and raise the likelihood of hair loss. You might also wish to discuss systemic medications with your doctor, which target the entire body, including the scalp, without the need for topical therapies.