How To Moisturize Scalp Psoriasis

How To Treat Scalp Psoriasis

If you have scalp psoriasis, you know how frustrating it can be. Not only is the condition uncomfortable, but it can also be difficult to treat. In this article, we’ll share some tips on how to treat scalp psoriasis.

One of the most important things you can do for scalp psoriasis is to keep your scalp clean and free of irritants. Be gentle with your scalp when you shampoo, and use a mild shampoo or one that is specifically designed for people with psoriasis. You may also want to try a medicated shampoo or one that contains coal tar or salicylic acid. Avoiding hair products that contain alcohol can also help.

In addition to gentle cleansing, you’ll also want to moisturize your scalp. This can help reduce the itching and flaking associated with psoriasis. Look for products that contain glycerin, jojoba oil, or tea tree oil. You can also try using a humidifier to add moisture to the air and keep your scalp hydrated.

If your scalp psoriasis is severe, you may need to try a medicated treatment. Topical corticosteroids are the most commonly used treatment for mild to moderate scalp psoriasis. These medications can help reduce inflammation and itching. If you have severe scalp psoriasis, you may need to take oral or injected corticosteroids.If you have scalp psoriasis, you know how frustrating it can be. Not only is it difficult to find the right shampoo or other treatment, but it can also be embarrassing. You may feel like you have to hide your condition from the world.

Choose A Shampoo For Scalp Health

Some shampoos and conditioners may strip the scalp of its natural oils, leaving it dry and irritated. “Consider avoiding sulfates in shampoo, which tend to be more harsh cleansers that can strip the skin of its natural oils,” says Rubin.

If scalp dryness is a problem, consider switching to shampoos and conditioners specially formulated to suit the scalp. Friese adds, “Pyrithione zinc is an antibacterial and antifungal agent. It works great for dandruff, dry scalp, and also oily scalp. It also has DHT inhibitors, for people who are concerned with hair loss.”

“For mild dandruff, try cleansing daily with a gentle shampoo to reduce oil and skin-cell buildup. If that doesn’t help, try a medicated dandruff shampoo. You may need to try more than one shampoo to find the haircare regime that works for you. You may need repeated or long-term treatment. If these options do not work, see a dermatologist for further treatment,” Friese continues.

But, again, make sure to contact a professional to determine how you should alter your haircare routine. Rubin suggests more frequent washings with a medicated shampoo for those with dandruff, which will help more than just using a moisturizing product on its own.

We recommend this shampoo because it’s tough against a dry scalp but keeps hair follicles strong, thanks to the perfect combination of ingredients.

Eucerin Skin Calming Itch Relief Treatment

Although Eucerin Skin Calming Itch Relief Treatment wasnt specifically created for people with psoriasis, it contains menthol and oatmeal, which can help relieve itchiness caused by dry skin.

Eucerin products are quite popular with members of MyPsoriasisTeam:

• I found that a good moisturizer, such as Eucerin, helps.
• Today I have been putting Eucerin lotion on every chance that I get, and it has calmed my skin.
• Eucerin products seem to help my hands. A friend told me about it and I decided to give it a chance. I havent been sorry. All the pharmacies and even some of the grocery stores carry it.
• I use Eucerin lotion. There are different kinds ranging from light to rich. I use the richest one. On the back, it even says it helps with psoriasis and eczema.

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How Does Scalp Psoriasis Affect Black Hair

Around half of people living with psoriasis have the condition on their scalp. This form of psoriasis is common in Black people and can also show up on the hairline, forehead, back of the neck, and around the ears.

Doctors diagnose psoriasis less often in African Americans because they may overlook signs and symptoms of the condition. While lesions appear red on lighter skin, they look purple, grayish, or dark brown on skin of color. Discoloration along the hairline may be more noticeable on darker skin tones because of the contrast with lighter-colored scaliness.

Scalp psoriasis is often hard to treat in Black people due to the texture of their hair. Many people of African descent have tightly coiled hair, which is more fragile than loose curls or straight textures. It also tends to be drier because sebum, a natural moisturizer made in your oil glands, has trouble moving down the hair shaft.

Certain hairstyles and styling techniques like weaves and chemical hair relaxers can also sometimes leave hair weaker and prone to breakage.

Caring For Scalp Psoriasis

by Health Writer

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition characterized by thickened patches of skin called plaques. When it affects the head, it is called scalp psoriasis. As with psoriasis on other parts of the body, it can worsen during the winter months due to cold dry air outside and warm dry air indoors.

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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 you’ve 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.

Unwind With Lavender And Calendula

Not many antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory agents are known for helping you relax, but thats the magic of lavender essential oil. You can also add calendula oil to the mix , along with a carrier oil, and apply directly to the scalp.

Just remember to only add a few drops of essential oil to each tablespoon of carrier oil you use, and do a patch test first to make sure you dont have a sensitivity to those particular oils.

Some potential carrier oils:

• avocado oil
• jojoba oil

Sadly the science here is still a little lacking, so make sure to do your homework and chat with a derm before oiling up.

Another option that doesnt involve topical application: Since stress makes psoriasis flares worse, you can sit in a quiet room with dim lighting, some lavender oil in the diffuser, and just chilllll. This may not affect your psoriasis in the short term, but it could help the flare go away faster. And, bonus points for caring for your mental health.

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Adjust Diet & Lifestyle

Topical applications are great for immediaterelief. But lasting results come from other means, beyond these potentingredients, here are other holistic ways to treat scalp psoriasis naturally.

AddWhole Food Nutrition: Including healthy Omega 3 fattyacids, fresh fruits and vegetables will support overall health, well-being, andscalp psoriasis recovery. Foods that especially aid in the healing of thiscommon skin condition include fish, berries, and dark leafy greens.

De-stress: Meditation, yoga, and other de-stressing activities like regularcardio exercise and time spent in nature, have proven to have immense healingcapabilities. Studies show that stress is a primary trigger of psoriasisflare-ups. Thus, de-stressing habits support the immune system and can empoweryour body, mind, and spirit as it battles psoriasis.

What Questions Should I Ask My Healthcare Provider

• How can you tell that I have scalp psoriasis?
• If I dont have scalp psoriasis, what other skin condition might I have?
• How can I prevent flare-ups and control my symptoms?
• What medicines do you recommend?
• Do the medicines have any side effects?
• What at-home treatments do you recommend?
• Do the at-home treatments have any side effects?
• What else can I do to improve my symptoms?
• Is there a shampoo, cream or ointment you can prescribe?

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Eat A Low Inflammation Diet

Since one aspect of psoriasis is inflammation, finding ways to reduce and control inflammation can help to keep the condition manageable. There’s also initial research that suggests psoriasis is a condition that may be characterized by a leaky gut . Proudman suggests avoiding processed meats and processed foods high in sugar, salt or fat. “Eating anti-inflammatory foods such as fresh fruits and vegetables decreases inflammation and oxidative stress,” she says.

Austin-based holistic doctor Elena Villaneuva, D.C., confirms there is a direct connection between diet and inflammation. “There is a major connection between gut health and skin health,” Villaneuva says. “We’ve found that the key to reversing most skin conditions is to start on the inside.” She recommends avoiding gluten, sugar, and dairy altogetheras research has shown a connection between these foods and psoriasis.

Moderate To Severe Psoriasis Treatments

Your doctor may prescribe steroids, lotions, solutions, sprays, or foams to treat moderate to severe scalp psoriasis. Some topical treatments are applied directly to the skin, then shampooed and rinsed out, including:

• Anthralin . Apply this cream once a day for 10 to 30 minutes.
• Calcipotriene . This is a prescription form of vitamin D. Apply it at night and cover your scalp with a shower cap. Leave it on overnight. Don’t get it in your eyes.
• Calcipotriene and betamethasone dipropionate . This is a combination of a type of vitamin D and a strong steroid in a suspension or ointment. You use it once a day. Don’t get it in your eyes.
• Tazarotene . This vitamin A treatment comes in a cream, foam, or gel form. If using it at night, put it on clean, dry skin, and let the medication dry before you go to sleep. Applying a moisturizer after the medication may help prevent drying.

Follow your doctor’s directions for all medications. Don’t use stronger steroids for more than a 2-week cycle without your doctor giving you the OK.

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Make An Appointment For A Haircut At The Beauty Bar

If you are due for a haircut or are thinking about changing your style, make an appointment at The Beauty Bar. We can help you choose the right hairstyle and give you recommendations on how to deal with problems like a dry scalp. Make an appointment at The Beauty Bar in Southington, Connecticut today.

Pretreat Your Hair Before Applying Any Rx

When it comes to scalp psoriasis, priorities count. Apply scale-softening agents or oils to psoriasis patches first, before you dab on medication. Any treatment you use afterward will penetrate the skin more easily, upping the benefits. Next, choose a peeling agent that includes salicylic acid in the ingredients list, which softens scales, making them easier to remove.

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How To Know If You Have A Dry Scalp

First, you need to understand what dry scalp is. “Dry scalp is typically a term that people use for a flaking or scaly scalp. This is actually a scalp condition that is either dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, or psoriasis,” he says. “A lot of underlying issues can cause dry scalp, such as an overgrowth of bacteria or fungus, changes in weather, low nutrient levels inclusive of vitamin D3 and ferritin, and overuse of drying agents on the scalp in shampoo, conditioners, and chemical processing.” Basically, “dry scalp” is an umbrella term that encapsulates a lot, so you should, if possible, see a derm or a trichologist to confirm which of the threeâdandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, or psoriasisâyou’re tackling.

It’s also important to note that treatment for dry scalp doesn’t vary by hair textures, but folks with certain textures may be more predisposed to scalp dryness based on the products they use. “Styling and chemical product usage may change the level of inflammation on the surface of the scalp which may create a better environment for a negative scalp condition such as dry scalp,” says Gaunitz. Again, the uniqueness of each dry scalp situation makes it a great subject to bring to your next styling or dermatologist appointment.

What Is The Difference Between Scalp Eczema And Scalp Psoriasis

Scalp eczema and scalp psoriasis can look very similar. Theyre both inflammatory skin conditions. Scalp psoriasis typically has well-defined plaques, while scalp eczema is much itchier, even before you see the rash.

Your healthcare provider can tell the difference between scalp eczema and scalp psoriasis during an examination.

A note from Cleveland Clinic

Scalp psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that causes thick patches of skin to develop on your scalp or the skin around your scalp. You may feel self-conscious, and it can be unpleasant if its itchy or painful. However, it isnt contagious, and treatments can help your symptoms improve. Its important to pay attention to your skin, including your scalp. Contact your healthcare provider as soon as you notice any plaques developing on your scalp.

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Topical Treatments For Moderate To Severe Scalp Psoriasis

If your symptoms are more severe and the plaques on your scalp are thick, you will probably need prescription treatment. Your GP can recommend a topical treatment containing corticosteroids, vitamin D analogues, or dithranol. Prescription products containing these ingredients include dermovate scalp application, locoid scalp lotion, dithrocream and dovobet gel.

You should use these treatment exactly as directed by your doctor. Make sure that you apply the medicated product directly to the scalp, and not to the hair.

In addition to these medicated treatments, you might also try using emollients on your scalp, as these can help to soften thick plaques. An emollient is a rich moisturiser which can prevent itching and inflammation, and create a protective barrier on the skin, sealing in moisture. One to consider using is grahams natural psoriasis cream, which is made from manuka honey and calendula. Formulated with natural ingredients, this moisturising treatment offers effective relief will helping to normalise the skins structure.

If you are going to use an emollient on your scalp, you should try the following method:

The Best Moisturizers For Psoriasis

So which moisturizers work best?

A general rule of thumb is that oils and ointments lock in skin moisture more effectively than creamswhich, in turn, do this better than lotions.

Here’s a guide to the terms you may come across while reading over-the-counter moisturizer labels:

• Emollients include shea and cocoa butter mink, emu, and lanolin oils and mineral oil and plant oil.
• Water-binding agents help maintain skin’s water concentration and include collagen, elastin, lecithin, amino acids, proteins, glucose, fructose, sucrose, and phospholipids.
• Anti-irritants help quiet the skin and are especially useful for people with psoriasis. These include aloe, vitamin C, licorice root, grape extract, green tea, chamomile extract, and willow bark.
• Antioxidants accelerate cell turnover, helping clear psoriatic scales away while moisturizing. These include selenium, vitamin A, coenzyme Q10, alpha lipoic acid, vitamin C, vitamin E, and grape extract.

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How To Treat Scalp Psoriasis Naturally

If you’re one of the millions of Americans suffering from scalp psoriasis, you know that the flakes, itchiness, and general discomfort can be extremely frustrating. But there is hope! In this post, we’ll share some tips on how to treat scalp psoriasis naturally.

First, it’s important to understand that scalp psoriasis is a chronic condition that can’t be cured. However, there are many things you can do to manage your symptoms and keep your flare-ups under control.

One of the best things you can do for your scalp is to keep it clean and free of irritants. Use a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo to wash your hair and avoid harsh chemicals or harsh scratching. You may also want to try using a soft brush or comb to avoid irritating your scalp further.

In addition to keeping your scalp clean, you’ll also want to make sure it’s well-moisturized. A dry scalp can make your psoriasis worse, so using a good moisturizer is key. Look for one that’s specifically made for scalps with psoriasis.

Finally, remember that stress can make your psoriasis worse. So do your best to relax and take care of yourself. Consider trying some relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation.

While there is no cure for scalp psoriasis, there are a number of natural treatments that can help to reduce symptoms and improve your quality of life. Here are some of the most effective natural treatments for scalp psoriasis:

What Are The Symptoms Of Scalp Psoriasis

Symptoms of scalp psoriasis vary.

Mild scalp psoriasis symptoms may involve only small, thin scales or flaking that looks like dandruff.

Moderate or severe scalp psoriasis symptoms include:

• Raised, discolored plaques with a white or silvery surface of dead skin cells.
• Plaques on most of your scalp or your entire scalp.
• Plaques along your hairline, forehead, the back of your neck or on the skin around your ears.
• Dryness.
• Irritation or pain.

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Applying Shampoos To Moisturise Your Scalp

Applying shampoos to keep your head moisturised isnt difficult.

Here are the steps to moisturising your scalp with shampoos: