Scalp psoriasis is a condition that affects the skin and can be seen as scaly and flaky raised patches. Some areas may look like dandruff while other areas might have dry scales with a silvery sheen. The difference of scalp psoriasis vs dandruff is that dandruff could come and go but scalp psoriasis stays for a long time. It could affect the entire scalp or parts of the scalp. It would also spread to the neck, the ears and the hairline on occasions. Scalp psoriasis can at times produce itchiness, scalp pain and a burning sensation on the scalp. Though it does lead to temporary hair loss in the affected areas, psoriasis in general is not responsible for hair loss.

Scalp psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that happens when the immune system ends up attacking the body instead of protecting it.  This happens as the immune system sends the wrong signals and the skin cells multiply rapidly as a result. Under normal circumstances cells take weeks to form but with psoriasis cell formation happens within days. This is an unwelcome situation as the body does not have the capacity to handle the excess number of cells.  The skin cells multiply on the surface of the scalp to create scaly patches.

Though it has yet to be scientifically established it is believed that there is a genetic component to scalp psoriasis. People who have close relatives with this condition are more likely to develop this condition in the future.

Also, a research report has suggested that the following categories of people have a greater possibility of developing scalp psoriasis.

The condition of people with scalp psoriasis is aggravated considerably by people with certain issues. Following are some scalp psoriasis causes:

What Are the Symptoms of Scalp Psoriasis?

The symptoms of scalp psoriasis can differ for all individuals. However, some common symptoms are:

Psoriasis does not usually lead to hair loss but if the person scratches the skin it could result in bleeding and probable infection. It could spread to the ears, neck and forehead.

Home Remedies to Get Relief from Scalp Itchiness

Though there are a number of suggested home remedies for scalp psoriasis the efficacy has yet to be proven in the medical domain. The following remedies might be effective for the milder forms of psoriasis but more severe forms might require the intervention of a doctor. Let us look at some home remedies for scalp psoriasis treatment.

A number of OTC products are available which help soften the scales in the infected parts and help them peel off. Products which have salicylic acid, lactic acid, zinc pyrithione, urea or selenium sulphide are good for psoriasis problems.

Coal tar products are very useful in reducing itching, inflammation and scaling. They could be available as ointments, gels, shampoos and foams among other things. Massage the coal tar psoriasis shampoo into the scalp and leave it for 5 minutes before washing it off. This is a psoriasis shampoo that works very effectively against dandruff.

Hydrocortisone is very effective in reducing itching and inflammation. For a few patches a mild version works well but for a more serious bout a prescription corticosteroid will be necessary.

You can also apply intralesional steroid injections to reduce inflammation. The doses are injected directly into the affected sections.

When You Seek Medical Help

Doctors could also suggest some topical medication which need to applied directly to the skin and then shampooed and rinsed out. Some examples are:

All the medication should be used on doctor’s recommendations only. Do not extend stronger steroids beyond the 2-week cycle without medical supervision.

On occasions your scalp psoriasis can become infected and this could cause crusting, warmth and tenderness. There is also a possibility of a swelling of the lymph nodes, in which case antibiotics might be required.

Ultraviolet Light is also used to deliver light with the help of a device directly to the scalp as part of another treatment procedure.

Depending on the severity of the infection doctors can also suggest the following medication.

It is suggested that all medicines be taken in the manner directed. Even recommended medications can have side effects such as irritation or redness which could cause the condition to deteriorate. Using a moisturising conditioner after a medicated shampoo is the way to do it.

Scalp psoriasis can be present in different forms. It can be mild and act under the radar or it could also take the form of a severe infection. The severity could lead to loss of sleep and psoriasis hair loss too. Early detection is a possible answer as you start your initial treatment with a scalp psoriasis shampoo. Do remember to visit us at Rejuvenate Health for the correct solutions as we guide you and set you on your way to healthier tresses.