Scalp psoriasis is a common skin disorder that causes raised, often scaly, red patches. These patches may appear as a single patch or multiple patches, and can affect the entire scalp. They can also extend to the forehead, back of the neck, or behind and inside the ears. It is important to know its symptoms and ways to prevent it, which we will review in this article by Dalili Medical.

**What is psoriasis?**

 

Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition characterized by accelerated growth of skin cells, resulting in thick, scaly layers that cause itching and discomfort. Psoriasis forms vary depending on the type of scales and their location on the body.

**Does scalp psoriasis cause hair loss?**

 

On its own, scalp psoriasis does not lead to hair loss. However, repeated or severe scratching, removing scales, and some treatments may lead to temporary hair loss. Fortunately, hair usually grows back after treating scalp psoriasis.

**How ​​does scalp psoriasis start?**

 

Scalp or scalp psoriasis cannot be transmitted by infection from another person. Although the exact cause of scalp psoriasis is still unknown, doctors believe that the problem lies in a malfunction in the immune system that causes skin cells to grow quickly and accumulate in patches. You may be more likely to develop scalp psoriasis if it runs in your family. Scalp psoriasis can be mild and unnoticeable, but it can also be severe and last for long periods, so pay attention to the itching sensation.

What types of psoriasis affect children?

 

1. **Plaque**: This is the most common in children, and appears as raised red patches covered with silvery scales.

2. **Guttate**: This appears as small red spots on the child’s skin.

3. **Inverse**: This appears in skin folds, such as the armpits and groin area.

4. **Pustular**: This is characterized by the appearance of small blisters filled with pus.

How long does it take for a patient to feel better after treatment?

 

Psoriasis flare-ups can last from several weeks to several months. Your doctor can help speed up the healing of your skin by prescribing certain medications. Once symptoms go away, psoriasis goes into remission, which means that new flare-ups may occur in the future. This period of remission can range from several months to several years. If symptoms worsen when you are exposed to certain triggers, avoiding these triggers can lead to a long period of remission.

What triggers psoriasis?

 

Although there is no definitive evidence to know what causes scalp psoriasis, several triggers may increase the likelihood of psoriasis flare-ups, including:

Infection.

Skin irritation.

Stress.

Obesity.

Smoking.

Alcohol consumption.

Cold weather.

Certain medications.

Use of harsh chemicals.

Bacterial infections.

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).

Hormonal changes, as psoriasis worsens during puberty, after childbirth, and after menopause.

Sunlight sometimes worsens psoriasis.

Types of psoriasis in adults:

There are several types of psoriasis, which helps determine the appropriate treatment:

. **Plaque psoriasis**: It is the most common, as it appears in the form of red spots covered with silvery, dry scales. These spots may cause itching and pain at times, and can appear in any area of ​​the body.

. **Nail psoriasis**: It affects the fingernails and toenails, leading to abnormal nail growth and a change in their color. In severe cases, the nails may be exposed to fragmentation.

. **Guttate psoriasis**: It is usually caused by a bacterial infection, especially those that affect the throat. This type appears in small, drop-like spots on the back, arms, legs, and scalp, and often affects people under the age of 30.

**Punicurea:** It is common among obese individuals and is exacerbated by friction and sweating. It often appears in areas such as the groin, under the armpits, under the breasts, and on the genitals. This condition appears as red, inflamed patches on the skin.

**Pyogenic psoriasis:** Although rare, it is considered one of the most dangerous types of psoriasis due to its rapid spread. It is characterized by the appearance of small blisters containing a thick white fluid known as pus. Pyogenic psoriasis may cause symptoms such as fever, chills, severe itching, and fatigue.

**Erythrodermic psoriasis:** This type is uncommon and causes the entire body to be covered with a red rash that causes itching or a burning sensation. This type can appear as a result of severe sunburn or as a result of taking certain medications.

**Is scalp psoriasis contagious?**

 

It is important to know that scalp psoriasis is not contagious, as it cannot be transmitted from one person to another. Psoriasis is not transmitted through touch, saliva, or blood. Scalp psoriasis is usually considered a genetic disease, as it is passed down through genes in the family, and people with psoriasis often have at least one family member who suffers from the same disease.

**The difference between psoriasis and dandruff**

Although there is a similarity between scalp psoriasis and dandruff in terms of the shape of the scales that form on the scalp, there are noticeable differences between the two conditions. Scalp psoriasis is characterized by thick, silvery scales that appear on the scalp, and may extend to the forehead, neck, or ears, causing inflammation, dryness, and severe itching.

As for dandruff, it appears in the form of dry scales that may be present on the scalp and sometimes on the hair, and can fall on clothes. Dandruff causes slight itching and leads to an oily scalp, in addition to an unpleasant odor. Scalp psoriasis is usually treated with topical, immunological, or biological treatments, while the condition of dandruff can be significantly improved with a shampoo specifically designed for treatment.

Symptoms of scalp psoriasis:

People with psoriasis appearHair A group of symptoms, the most prominent of which are:

- The appearance of white or silvery scales.

- Slight bleeding during the peeling process.

- Peeling of the skin.

- The appearance of red pimples on the surface of the skin.

- Dry scalp.

- The appearance of unusual dandruff in the hair.

- Feeling severe itching.

- The appearance of red, bumpy and scaly spots.

Severe hair loss can occur as a result of severe itching and scratching resulting from psoriasis. Hair loss can also be caused by harsh treatments or stress associated with the disease itself. It is important to note that hair loss is usually temporary, as hair grows back after the skin heals from psoriasis.

**Getting rid of hair psoriasis**

Initial steps can be followed to get rid of hair psoriasis as follows:

1. The scales accumulated on the scalp must be peeled and removed.

2. After removing the scales, the skin becomes ready to receive therapeutic creams.

3. Proper use of shampoo can help improve the condition.

4. It is preferable to use a shampoo that contains salicylic acid, the active ingredient in aspirin, as it helps peel the scales, which helps reduce their adhesion to the scalp.

5. Other useful ingredients include lactic acid, urea, tar, and phenol.

6. It is recommended to apply oil to the scalp, such as vegetable oil, coconut oil, or olive oil, as these oils help get rid of scales.

7. You can search in pharmacies for a liquid that contains a mixture of mineral oil such as glycerin and phenol. If this mixture is not available in pharmacies, you can search for it online.

**Thick scales resulting from scalp psoriasis**

 

When faced with the problem of thick scales, doctors recommend several ways to enhance the effectiveness of the mixture or oil used to remove these scales, including:

- Wrap a towel soaked in hot water around the head in the form of a turban and leave it for about 20 minutes.

- Use a hair dryer to heat the area.

- Wear a shower cap to protect pillows and sheets, and leave it on overnight while sleeping.

After that, comes the stage of using shampoo and combing the hair to get rid of the scales. It is recommended to use a brush with fine teeth gently, as dealing harshly with the scalp or scratching it strongly may lead to aggravation of the condition of scalp psoriasis. It is worse to try to remove the flakes of scales forcefully using nails or a brush.

Once the layer of scales falls off, the scalp is ready to absorb the treatment that aims to relieve itching and clean the skin. According to some doctors, patients can be encouraged to wash their heads with a mixture consisting of half apple cider vinegar and half water if they suffer from itchy scalp.

What factors increase the risk of developing psoriasis?

 

Risk factors associated with psoriasis include:

- **Family history**: Psoriasis can be passed down through generations. If one of your parents has the disease, you are more likely to develop it.

- **Stress**: Stress greatly affects the immune system, and high levels of stress can increase the risk of developing psoriasis.

- **Smoking**: Smoking tobacco increases the risk of developing psoriasis, and it can also increase the severity of symptoms. In addition, smoking can play a role in triggering the disease in the first place.

Complications of psoriasis: If you have psoriasis, you are at greater risk of developing other health conditions, such as:

- Psoriatic arthritis, which causes pain, stiffness, and swelling in the joints and surrounding areas.

- Eye diseases, such as conjunctivitis and blepharitis.

- Obesity.

- Type 2 diabetes.

- High blood pressure.

- Cardiovascular disease.

**Nutrition for Psoriasis of the Scalp**

Dermatologists recommend following a healthy diet that is appropriate for psoriasis of the scalp, which includes eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Maintaining a healthy weight can also significantly reduce the likelihood of infection, as a strong relationship has been found between being overweight and psoriasis. The ideal diet for psoriasis of the scalp depends on the following points:

- **Low-calorie diet**: Helps reduce the risk of infection and alleviates the severity of symptoms associated with psoriasis of the scalp, as obesity is often associated with increased inflammation in the body.

- **Gluten-free foods**: Studies have shown that many people with psoriasis of the scalp have a sensitivity to gluten, which means they may suffer from digestive disorders or wheat allergy, and they feel better when following a gluten-free diet.

- **Foods rich in antioxidants**: such as fruits and vegetables, as research has shown a low level of glutathione - a powerful antioxidant - in the blood of people with psoriasis. This substance can be found in garlic, onions, broccoli, turnips, cabbage, and cauliflower.

Fish oil: Fish oil is useful in improving the symptoms of scalp psoriasis, especially when following a low-fat diet.

Avoid alcohol: Alcohol contributes to increased skin sensitivity, which may exacerbate symptoms in people with scalp psoriasis.

**Treatment of scalp psoriasis at home**

Scalp psoriasis can be treated at home through a set of natural treatments that may help relieve the symptoms and flakes resulting from scalp psoriasis. These treatments include:

- **Apple cider vinegar**: It is effective in relieving itchy scalp associated with scalp psoriasis. It can be used either by mixing it with regular shampoo or by applying it directly to the scalp. It is preferable to dilute apple cider vinegar with water in a ratio of 1:1 in case of a burning sensation, or wash it off immediately after it dries.

- **Dead Sea salts or Epsom salt**: These salts can be mixed with water in the bathtub and enjoy a quarter of an hour to relieve itching and remove flakes. It should be noted that these salts may cause drynessIt is a skin condition, so it is recommended to moisturize the body well after using it.

- **Aloe Vera Gel**: It is useful in relieving skin irritation and redness, and it also helps in reducing the formation of scales.

**Treatment of scalp psoriasis with medications**

The patient can find many options in the pharmacy that are more than those available in regular stores. When looking for moisturizing products, gels, and shampoos, the patient should choose those that contain antifungals or that help reduce the desire to scratch the skin, and use them as a treatment for scalp psoriasis.

**Coal Tar:** Coal tar is used to treat mild cases of scalp psoriasis, and is available in several forms such as shampoo, soap, and cream. Coal tar helps reduce the symptoms of scalp psoriasis such as redness and itching, and slows the appearance and growth of scales. To use coal tar shampoo, massage it into the scalp and leave it for a few minutes before washing the hair. A conditioner can be used after shampooing to reduce the smell and stains of coal tar.

**Zinc Pyrithione:****Ketoconazole:** Ketoconazole, an antifungal, is used in the form of a shampoo to remove deposits and scales resulting from scalp psoriasis. It is effective in cases of dry skin, as it reduces the risk of fungal infection, which may be high in some people with psoriasis.

**Steroid injections:** Steroid injections are used to relieve scalp inflammation resulting from psoriasis, as they work to reduce inflammation and improve the condition of the scalp.

**Shampoo to treat scalp psoriasis:** A group of pharmaceutical preparations are available in the form of shampoo specifically for treating scalp psoriasis, which contain various ingredients such as coal tar, salicylic acid, and antifungal medications. The methods of using these shampoos vary according to each product, so it is recommended to follow the doctor's instructions or the instructions on the shampoo package regarding the duration of use, method, and number of times per week. In general, it is preferable to adhere to the following instructions when using shampoo:

- It is recommended to wash the hair with warm water to soften the deposits before applying the shampoo.

- It is preferable to comb the hair in a circular motion to reduce deposits on the scalp.

- It is recommended to apply a moisturizing cream to the scalp after washing it with shampoo while it is still wet.

**Salicylic acid:** Salicylic acid scrub is available in the form of shampoo and soap to treat scalp psoriasis, as it helps soften and remove psoriasis scales, and is used in mild cases of scalp psoriasis.

Alternative medications to treat scalp psoriasis: Sometimes scalp psoriasis may extend to other areas of the body, and moderate or severe cases are treated with the following medications:

- Medications that reduce the activity of the immune system, such as cyclosporine and biological medications, as these medications help reduce the inflammation resulting from psoriasis.

- Medications that reduce the proliferation of skin cells that lead to the formation of thick scales, such as retinoid derivatives and methotrexate.

- Preparations that aim to calm and soothe the scalp, where you can look for products that contain camphor, menthol, acetyl alcohol, aloe vera, or benzyl alcohol.

**Laser Psoriasis Treatment:**

Laser treatment is an effective method for treating psoriasis, and it is one of the most common methods that are performed under the supervision of a dermatologist. Each session takes about half an hour. Here are the treatment steps:

- First, the doctor applies a local anesthetic to the affected area of ​​the skin to relieve the patient's pain.

- Then, the doctor directs high-intensity laser beams of ultraviolet rays, with a specific wavelength, to the affected area.

- The patient may feel crackling and warmth as a result of the laser effect, and the session usually lasts between 15 to 35 minutes.

- To achieve the best results, the patient needs to undergo two sessions per week for three weeks, and the dose may vary depending on the severity of psoriasis and the patient's condition.

**Phototherapy for Scalp Psoriasis**

Phototherapy can be used as an effective treatment for scalp psoriasis, as it helps relieve symptoms over the course of a full year. This treatment is applied through hand-held devices that emit UVB radiation and are designed to resemble brush teeth. There are a variety of brands to choose from, at varying prices.

If the available treatment methods do not work, the patient is advised to see a doctor, as scalp psoriasis is considered one of the types that are difficult to treat, and requires continuous medical care to relieve symptoms and prevent the condition from worsening.

**Treatment of scalp psoriasis itching**

Scalp psoriasis is accompanied by itching and redness, and this itching can be relieved by following the following tips:

- Consult your doctor about the possibility of using antihistamine medications to reduce itching.

- Use a conditioner after shampooing, especially coal tar shampoo.

- Cold compresses can be applied to itchy areas.

- Avoid using heat styling tools.

- Be careful not to scratch the scalp, as this may lead to bleeding or hair loss.