How To Treat Scalp Psoriasis Effectively?

By on February 17, 2013

Scalp psoriasis is a type of skin problem that is present in more than half of individuals with psoriasis. As the name suggests, the condition is found in the scalp often extending down to the forehead and behind the ears.

Since the symptoms may be mistaken for an extreme dandruff problem, diagnosis requires the intervention of a doctor. This usually entails examination of the body for other signs of psoriasis with the possibility of a skin biopsy to arrive at a conclusion.

Since usually mistaken for dandruff, the symptoms of scalp psoriasis are no different from this problem. The scalp starts to flake, producing bits and pieces of skin to fall down which can be embarrassing for a person. The itchiness on the scalp area is also distracting and produces an uncomfortable feeling.

Treatment of Psoriasis in the Scalp
Treatment differs depending on the severity of the condition. However, the known medications for psoriasis in the scalp are the same for psoriasis found in the rest of the body. This would usually involve oral medication, those applied directly on the skin and light therapy.

Topical Treatment for Mild Psoriasis
For a mild case of psoriasis, using special shampoos is the best solution possible. These products not only reduce the symptoms but also bring back moisture in the scalp, therefore easing the redness and itchiness often felt by the sufferer.

Sunlight is also a popular tool to prevent the proliferation of the scaling although this isn’t as effective for the scalp due to the presence of hair.

scalp psoriasis

Oral and Injected Medications for Severe Psoriasis
When it comes to severe cases, the use of medications is highly recommended as well as exposure to different kinds of light.

In the case of psoriasis in the scalp, devices resembling combs are used to make the light penetrate through the hair and reach the skin area. Much like Narrowband UVB which is used for body psoriasis though, this method makes a person susceptible to skin cancer as well as a host of other side effects.

Since a severe case of psoriasis means that there are thick scales present in the hair area, some recommend that the scales be removed first before treatment is applied.

This can be done by rubbing mineral oil or salicylic acid on the affected area and leaving it there overnight. After this, using a combination of medications would completely remove the scales as well as minimize the emergence of new ones.

Home remedies for psoriasis are also popular although this might only be useful for mild cases and are designed to address the symptoms rather than the disease itself. With the cause of psoriasis still not being clear to medicine, most sufferers would have to work on controlling the disease until a cure is found.

However, with proper treatment and lifestyle, psoriasis may be controlled.

One thing to keep in mind though is that the opinion of a doctor must first be asked prior to application of any type of medication.

psoriasis free for life

 

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