Psoriasis can develop anywhere on the skin. When it occurs on the scalp, it is known as scalp psoriasis. Psoriasis commonly develops on the scalp.
According to researches, at least 50 percent of the individuals who have plaque psoriasis will have at least one outbreak on the scalp.
It is possible for scalp psoriasis to extend beyond the scalp. It can develop on the forehead. At times, it may extend to the back of the neck or behind the ears.
Texas Surgical Dermatology, led by board certified dermatologist Dr. Tri H. Nguyen, provides safe and proven skin care treatments to patients in Houston, Katy, Spring, The Woodlands, Texas, and surrounding locations.
Symptoms
The patient may notice the following when scalp psoriasis develops:
Reddish patches on the scalp
Some patches are barely visible. However, at times, patches can also be quite noticeable, thick, and swollen.
Dandruff-like flaking and silvery-white scales
Scalp psoriasis may appear very similar to dandruff. However, unlike dandruff, scalp psoriasis leads to a silvery sheen and dry scale on the scalp.
Dry scalp
The scalp may be excessively dry to the point that the skin cracks and bleeds.
Itching
This is one of the most commonly occurring symptoms. Some patients experience a mild itch while others have intense itching that can impede daily life and cause sleepless nights.
Bleeding
Scalp psoriasis can be quite itchy, and almost everyone scratches. Scratching can cause the scalp to bleed.
Burning Sensation or Soreness
The scalp may burn and feel very sore.
What causes scalp psoriasis?
Irrespective of where psoriasis occurs, the reason is the same. Psoriasis occurs when an individual’s immune system has faulty signals that tell skin cells to develop rapidly. New skin cells develop in days instead of weeks. The body cannot shed these excess skin cells quickly, and they accumulate on the skin’s surface, causing psoriasis patches to appear.
How do dermatologists address scalp psoriasis?
Scalp psoriasis cause discomfort, and some individuals feel embarrassed. The treatment can ease these issues. There are various safe and effective treatments. Certain people experience relief from a medicated shampoo or solution. Some of these can be bought without a prescription.
However, scalp psoriasis can be difficult to get rid of. Many people consult a dermatologist for treatment. The following types of treatment can address scalp psoriasis:
- Medicated shampoos
- Medicine applied to the scalp
- Light treatments
- Scale softeners
- Injections
- Biologics and other medications that work throughout the body
Suggestions for Scalp Psoriasis Management
For maximum relief from scalp psoriasis, dermatologists commonly give their patients the following suggestions:
Try not to itch the scalp
Dermatologists understand that scalp psoriasis can be very itchy. However, scratching can make the condition worse.
Shampoo gently
It seems like a good idea to rub shampoo into the scalp, but it’s not. Scratching, rubbing, and scrubbing the scalp can worsen the scalp psoriasis.
Remove scale with care
The treatment of scalp psoriasis involves the loosening and removal of the scale on the scalp. The patient must do this delicately. Psoriasis may flare up due to picking. Picking can lead to hair loss as well.
Dermatologists recommend the use of a scale softener. A scale softener comprises salicylic acid which allows it to soften stubborn, thick, patches of psoriasis.
Board certified dermatologist Dr. Tri H. Nguyen at Texas Surgical Dermatology receives patients from Houston, Katy, Spring, The Woodlands, Texas, and nearby areas for advanced skin care procedures.
For more information on procedures and treatments offered at Texas Surgical Dermatology PA please call 832.663.6566 or click here to contact our dermatologists. Helping patients in Houston, The Woodlands, Springs, Katy and other surrounding areas of Texas.
