Scalp Psoriasis What It Is
Some people may think poor hygiene is the cause of scalp psoriasis, but this dry, flaky, itchy skin on the scalp has nothing to do with cleanliness. If it is not a hygiene problem, what could be the cause then?
Scalp psoriasis
Well, psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory condition that occurs due to abnormal function of the immune system. Doctors cannot really explain the cause, but the immune system of some individuals churns out excess skin cells. These skin cells tend to pile on top of each other since the body is not fast enough to remove these excess cells thus, they form flakey, silvery scales.
This condition can appear on any area of the body, but when psoriasis pops up on the head, patches of dry skin can appear beneath the hair, behind the ears, and on the back of the neck.
One might easily mistake psoriasis for dandruff, even dermatologists. Sebopsoriasis is a term used by dermatologists when it appears somehow like dandruff and psoriasis.
A more defined or patterned pink-scale like plagues, which can also appear on other body parts besides the head, are indications that the irritation on your scalp could be psoriasis.
Dandruff usually appear like generalized oily flaking with pink patches. Treating psoriasis is very difficult, but dandruff can be treated with over the counter shampoos.
Is Scalp Psoriasis Contagious
Scalp psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that is not transmitted by physical contact. It is not a contagious disease.
Wrapping Up
Now you know that this autoimmune condition causes red, scaly patches of skin on the scalp and sometimes, on the areas around it. OTC and topical treatments may help reduce mild psoriasis symptoms. However, for moderate to severe scalp psoriasis, oral medication or light therapy may be prescribed by your doctor. Following your doctors directions to control and reduce flare-ups is important to avoid complications.
Keep The Area Moisturised
Keep skin cool and moist to reduce the itch. Whilst it may be tempting to hide your scalp under a hat, this may actually exacerbate the condition. Instead, opt for a deep moisturising treatment like the Nettle Hair Oil, apply to the scalp, and leave for at least 30 minutes, but ideally overnight, before shampooing.
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Limit Your Use Of Styling Tools
Be gentle when styling your hair, in order to avoid irritating the scalp. It is best to avoid tight hair styles, as pulling too tight on the scalp can lead to irritation, says Garshick. Additionally, curling irons, rollers, coloring, perming or relaxing your hair should be limitedespecially if there is an active flareas these can be irritating on the scalp.
If youre concerned about concealing plaques, Green suggests a low pony with added texture to hide irritation at the nape of your neck. You can add volume to down-dos by gently teasing strands at the root to conceal any scaliness behind the ears. If the hairline is typically your trouble zone, full or side-swept bangs can help hide redness.
Coconuts Can Make Great Natural Remedies For Scalp Psoriasis
You can use coconut oil as a hair mask and also relieve psoriasis. Apply coconut oil on your scalp and wear a shower cap. If you can, leave this oil on your scalp all through the night.
If you cant, allow to stay for one hour. Even though there is no evidence to support the use in treating this condition, the oil present might help nourish the scalp.
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Oral Or Injected Medications:
These are also recommended to people with moderate to severe psoriasis, when other forms of treatment are not effective.
Though the treatment depends entirely on the severity and type of psoriasis one has, the usual approach is to start with the mildest treatments and then move to the stronger ones, only if itâs necessary. The intention behind these treatments is to find the most effective way to slowdown the cell growth with least possible side-effects.
Use An Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse
Apple cider vinegar is a do-it-all ingredient, and when used as an apple cider vinegar rinse, it can help lower the pH of the hair, giving you the silky, shiny locks you’ve always wanted. Villaneuva says it’s a great natural at-home remedy to alleviate itching and irritation. “Apply an apple cider vinegar rinse to the scalp and wait for it to dry,” she suggests. Once the vinegar has dried, rinse the solution off of the scalp. However, only use this on mild flare-ups: “You’ll want to avoid using apple cider vinegar if your skin is cracked, bleeding, or there are open wounds.” This is safe to repeat a few times a week to reduce irritation.
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What Are The Common Symptoms Of Scalp Psoriasis
Before we move on to finding solutions on how to cure psoriasis, letâs look at the symptoms of scalp psoriasis.
⢠Hair loss ⢠Scaly, red, bumpy patches ⢠Silvery-white scales
Looks familiar right? You wonât be faulted to think of the symptoms of psoriasis to be similar to dandruff, since flaking, itching and dry scalp occur in both conditions. However, in psoriasis, these symptoms are not just limited to the scalp it can affect other parts of the body as well.
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Strategies For Managing Scalp Psoriasis During Flare
1. Soak in an oatmeal bath: fill a sock or one foot of a pair of old tights with porridge oats and add it to a warm bath. Lie back and let the oaty water soothe your hair!
2. Apple cider vinegar: rinse freshly washed hair with apple cider vinegar to reduce flakiness
3. Salt bath: add Epsom or Dead Sea salts to your bath to let the minerals do their work
4. Change your shampoo: switch to a non-irritant, SLS-free, unfragranced shampoo, such as Balmonds two-in-one Natural Shampoo & Bodywash
5. Essential oils: try antimicrobial tea tree and/or rosemary to purify the scalp
6. Omega-rich plant oils: nutritious EFA-rich oils on the scalp can help regulate the production of skin cells
7. Overnight oil treatment:Balmonds Scalp Oil is a perfect overnight conditioning treatment for itchy, flaky scalp psoriasis, because it contains hemp seed, borage and olive oils, as well as soothing calendula, cleansing tea tree, and stimulating rosemary. It also rich in soothing calendula and nettle oils, both of which are there to combat the itch.
How to use Balmonds Scalp Oil: apply a few pumps of the oil to the scalp and massage in gently. Its best used at night time and left on overnight.
After applying the oil, lay a soft, old towel on the pillow to avoid staining. In the morning wash the hair out thoroughly with Balmonds Natural Shampoo & Body Wash.
Patch test a tiny amount of the oil behind the ear for at least 24 hours before widespread use.
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Why Is My Psoriasis Flaky
Why is my scalp wet and sticky?Unlike dry dandruff, flakes of wet dandruff are larger and often stick to your hair. Excess oil can accumulate and lead to wet dandruff if you dont wash your hair often enough or if you have an oily scalp naturally. Skin conditions like seborrheic dermatitis and psoriasis can also cause wet dandruff.
Salts Are Also Good Natural Remedies For Scalp Psoriasis
Salt is another excellent treatment option, but not just any sort of salt though
According to a study, bathing in water from the Dead Sea is an excellent option to treat psoriasis. Taking a trip to this location is pretty expensive and stressful however, the do it yourself treatment is available for you to do it at home with Dead Sea salt baths.
Note that there is no clear explanation that tells how the saltwater remedy works, but it certainly is a very popular solution, and for good reasons.
If you want to give the DIY home remedy a try, add Dead Sea salt in warm water and soak your whole body in it for 15 minutes. When you are done, dry your body with care and apply any moisturizing agent, like coconut oil, to ensure that scalp psoriasis does not dry out when you are done bathing.
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When To See A Doctor
If you suspect you have scalp psoriasis, you should schedule an appointment with a doctor. They may examine your scalp to rule out other conditions before sending you to a dermatologist for further evaluation and treatment.
If you dont already have a dermatologist, the Healthline FindCare tool can help you find a physician in your area.
Integrative Approaches To Care
The use of natural treatment options can be effective for some individuals when used in conjunction with traditional treatment options. The National Psoriasis Foundation suggests that you talk with your health care provider before trying any integrative treatment approaches, and especially before taking any herbal remedies to avoid dangerous interactions with your medications. Also, you should not take some herbal remedies if you are pregnant or breastfeeding or if you have pre-existing medical conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure or mood disorders. Stop usage and consult your health care provider immediately if you experience side effects.
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How Do You Moisturize Your Scalp
Should I wash my hair everyday if I have dandruff?You should wash your hair more often. Kaplan, M.D. To rid your scalp of dandruff, you need to clean out all the gunk, which a regular shampoo wont do. Dr. Kaplan recommends a medicated dandruff shampoo every day, one that contains ketoconazole, selenium sulfide, or zinc.
How To Naturally Manage Dry & Inflamed Scalp Psoriasis
Have you ever noticed scaly red patches on your scalp? If so, you may be among the 2 to 3% of Americans with psoriasis, an autoimmune disorder that presents itself on the skin, as well as in the joints. And if youve ever experienced this type of flare-up on the scalp, you know it can be quite the challenge to learn how to live with it, while not allowing it to control your every hair move. We consulted with experts to get the lowdown on scalp psoriasis and the natural remedies you can take to help manage your condition.
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What Are The Treatment Options For Scalp Psoriasis
Scalp psoriasis, like other types of psoriasis, does not have a conclusive treatment that can cure it. Yet, there are certain ways through which you can reduce the severity of the symptoms.
Usually, doctors prescribe topical and other medications to bring down the severity of the symptoms. They also recommend light therapy for that matter.
In addition, there are some home remedies for scalp psoriasis that have the potential to lessen the symptoms of this skin condition.
Could Listerines Ingredients Soothe Psoriasis
Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that presents with red patches of raised skin. These patches are typically dry, and can cause burning and itching. While we know Listerine cant cure an autoimmune disease, is there a chance the ingredients could soothe these symptoms?
Home remedies may work and may help if they contain oils or other lubricants for the skin, says Dr. Tien Nguyen, a dermatologist with Orange Coast Memorial Medical Center in Fountain Valley, California. Nguyen says the eucalyptus oil in Listerine could provide a certain amount of relief.
Both the menthol and alcohol could cool the psoriasis patches, too, relieving patients of their itchiness, according to Dr. Tsippora Shainhouse of the University of Southern California.
Both doctors, however, say the alcohol within Listerine counteracts any potential benefits.
I would not recommend applying alcohol to the skin because it will dry it out and cause more scaling, itching, and irritation in the long run, says Dr. Shainhouse.
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How To Cure Scalp Psoriasis At Home Naturally
How to Cure Scalp Psoriasis at Home Naturally
Most of us treasure our hair and in all honesty fail to take care of the scalp.
Scalp is one of the most neglected parts of the body leading to various scalp problems with scalp psoriasis being the prominent one among them.
Scalp psoriasis is an embarrassing scalp problem and involves a long-term treatment process. Alternative home remedies are a safer option.
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> Read Testimonials of Natural Scalp Psoriasis Cure at Home
What is Scalp Psoriasis?
Scalp is the part of integument of the human head covered with hair. Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition distinguished by circumscribed red patches of skin covered with white scales as a result of uncontrolled, rapid skin cell growth. One of the most common areas known to be affected by psoriasis is the scalp.
Symptoms of Scalp Psoriasis That Can be Cured by Natural Treatments:
Patches of red, thick skin with silvery scales on the scalp.
Scaly patches on the hairline, behind the ears, and around the neck.
Temporary hair loss that does not result in balding.
Natural Treatments Cure Scalp Psoriasis Caused by:
Scalp psoriasis is a subtype of psoriasis thus most of the triggers of psoriasis holds true for scalp psoriasis too, namely:
Inadequate immune system.
Certain medications known to induce psoriasis.
In addition to
A build up of chemicals on the scalp by way of cosmetic products used for hair care.
Types of Scalp Psoriasis:
Treatment Options:
Glycerin For Scalp Psoriasis
Glycerin
What You Have To Do
How Often You Should Do This
Repeat this once or twice a week depending on the severity of your patches.
Why This Works
Glycerin is a great humectant and emollient . It locks in moisture and treats the dryness and flakiness.
Some people also notice that their psoriasis symptoms get worse after eating certain foods or as a result of allergies. Research has not yet conclusively proven that these factors can trigger psoriasis, however.
It is worth noting that environmental triggers alone do not cause psoriasis. People without a genetic predisposition for psoriasis will not develop it, even when they experience these triggers.
In the following sections, we will cover the different types of shampoo and home remedies that people with scalp psoriasis can try.
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Symptoms Of Scalp Psoriasis Can Include:
Red patches covered with silvery-white scales Thick crust or scales that can attach to the hair shaft Bleeding can occur when patches are removed Pain and Itching of the scalpScalp Psoriasis is not contagious, and it isnt a sign of poor hygiene either. Whilst not all sufferers of Scalp Psoriasis complain of an itchy scalp most will have the loose scale in their hair or on their clothing, often causing considerable embarrassment and distress.
Having a clear and healthy scalp free from unpleasant, thick patches of scale and skin that leave you feeling self-conscious is something many of you, wish for, and understandably so.
There is a definite sense of frustration amongst people who suffer from this condition. It can be expensive trying different products in an effort to manage the symptoms, and when the results fall short of expectations there can be feelings of disappointment and a sense of despair .
It is important also to note that Psoriasis is usually a long-term condition, , and although there may be periods of remission when you enjoy a scale-free scalp, it can also reappear spontaneously. For this reason, certain lifestyle changes can help to manage the symptoms.
What To Do For Infection
If your scalp psoriasis becomes infected, you may have crusting, redness, warmth, tenderness, and sometimes swelling of your lymph nodes. Your doctor may prescribe an antibiotic treatment for this problem.
Show Sources
National Psoriasis Foundation: “Specific locations: scalp,” “Scalp Psoriasis,” and “Over-the-Counter Topicals,” “Traditional systemic medications,” “Moderate to severe psoriasis: Biologic drugs.”
Handa, S. Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology, 2010.
Skin Therapy Letter: “Treatments for Scalp Psoriasis with Emphasis on Calcipotriol Plus Betamethasone Dipropionate Gel .”
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How To Treat Scalp Psoriasis Naturally
February 11, 2020 by Andrea
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. I receive a small commission at no cost to you when you make a purchase using my link.
Scalp psoriasis can be extremely uncomfortable. With symptoms like burning, itchiness, sensitivity, flaking, and even hair loss, its no wonder sufferers are willing to do anything to alleviate the discomfort.
Unfortunately, many of the topical treatments, including selenium sulfide, coal tar, and salicylic acid, can be hard for the liver to remove from the body and can even result in chemical burns. For risk-free remedies here are the most effective ways to treat scalp psoriasis naturally.
Wet Dressings And Warm Baths With Salts Or Oats
Baths and showers can be relaxing, but those that are too long or too hot can strip the skin of its oils, and this can make psoriasis worse.
Some people find that a warm bath containing colloidal oatmeal or Epsom salts is soothing and relieves symptoms.
According to , an oatmeal bath or a wet dressing can reduce itching, and a warm bath containing a suitable bath oil can help moisturize the skin.
In 2005, researchers found evidence that Dead Sea salts might help with dry skin. Volunteers immersed a forearm in water with a 5-percent concentration of magnesium salts, the most common minerals in the Dead Sea, for 15 minutes.
The participants skin barrier function improved, their skin hydration was better, and they had reduced roughness and inflammation compared with the control group who used tap water instead.
After bathing, applying an appropriate moisturizer while the skin is still damp can help prevent moisture loss.
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