Ayurvedic Treatment For Scalp Psoriasis
Scalp Psoriasis affects almost 50% of psoriasis patients. Scalp is the most commonplace where psoriasis is seen. Its seen more in children and adults. Itching and hair loss are the common symptoms seen in most patients.
Scalp psoriasis may appear only in the scalp or along with the other parts of the body. Most commonly seen scalp psoriasis is Plaque type scalp Psoriasis and other types such as pustular psoriasis, erythrodermic psoriasis are also can be seen in the scalp as an individual or with combinations.
Psoriasis can only involve the scalp or as a part of the body. In the initial stage, it may be unnoticed or confused with dandruff and it is covered by hairs. In the scalp, the scales build up fast causing thicker plaque, and trapped by the hair it becomes more difficult to treat.
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Lavender Oil For Psoriasis
Lavender oil is one of the most studied essential oils. Its frequently used for a variety of conditions, including abrasions, headaches, and muscle pain. Lavender oil has even been shown to have successful antibacterial and antifungal properties against different bacterias when traditional medicines have failed.
If youre under stress, consider applying diluted lavender oil to your temples. This may help ease your mind, possibly alleviating certain emotional triggers of psoriasis. Lavender oil may also help to lessen itching on the skin when mixed with a lotion and applied to the skin.
Pregnant and breastfeeding women, as well as people who have diabetes, should avoid using lavender oil. Overuse of this oil may result in nausea, vomiting, or headaches.
As with other essential oils, you may try applying a few drops of lavender oil to your skin when diluted with a carrier like coconut oil. Some people add drops of lavender oil diluted in a carrier oil to bath water.
What Causes Scalp Psoriasis
Scalp and other forms of psoriasis occur when the immune system doesnt work properly. Skin cells grow too quickly, growing within days rather than weeks. The body cant shed these skin cells quickly enough to match the new growth. They pile up on the skins surface, causing psoriasis.
People with family members who have scalp psoriasis are more likely to have the condition themselves. Those with HIV, stress, obesity, and those who smoke are also more likely than others to have this condition.
Common triggers that set off or worsen flare-ups of scalp psoriasis include:
- infections, including strep throat or skin infections
- skin injuries, such as cuts, scrapes, insect bites, or severe sunburn
- stress
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Chamomile Tea As A Home Remedy For Scalp Psoriasis
Chamomile is well-known for its soothing effect. You can use it to relief the itching sensation caused by scalp psoriasis. Brew chamomile tea and leave it to cool down. You can speed up the process by adding ice cubes to it.
After you wash your hair, as usual, pour chamomile tea over the head and such affected areas, as neck or ears. You can mix chamomile tea with cool water to increase the volume. But the more concentrated chamomile tea is, the better effect it offers.
Fish Oil Can Reduce Inflammation Boost Immunity
Eating a couple of servings weekly of salmon, albacore tuna, and other fatty fishes that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids may help reduce inflammation, the hallmark of psoriasis. In addition, studies have suggested that people with psoriasis have an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases. Consuming fatty fishes or taking fish oil supplements can both help decrease your risk of heart disease risk and improve your psoriasis symptoms. Fish oil supplements are available over the counter in capsule form at many food markets and drugstores. Some studies have also found that fish oil can boost the immune system. Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease, so this natural psoriasis treatment could help improve symptoms. One word of warning: Dont take fish oil if youre on blood thinners it can raise your risk of bleeding.
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Is Kanuka Honey The Same As Manuka Honey
Manuka and kanuka honey are named after their source trees from which bees extract them. Manuka honey is the honey extracted by bees from Mnuka trees , whereas, kanuka honey is extracted from the Knuka trees . Both are good remedies when it comes to treating psoriasis, however, manuka honey has slightly more beneficial properties than kanuka honey.
Maintain At Home With The Right Products
While home remedies are an additional step that could be a terrific way to help relieve scalp psoriasis, the main steps to take always start with what youre putting on your head. It begins with washing your hair, which if you use drugstore shampoos and conditioners, that right there could be the reason behind an agitated scalp. Preservatives, those yummy smelling fragrances, and the cheap chemicals like parabens and SLS added to hair products can all worsen psoriasis.
Instead of buying big brands, consider the natural approach with every hair wash! Wild Naturals has a psoriasis-formulated shampoo and conditioner tailored to relieve the scales, itch, and dryness associated with it. Swap out your hair products with natural hair care and see the difference with regular use thats much easier to add into your regimen.
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How Is Scalp Psoriasis Treated
Some shampootreatments can be bought over the counter, however, if your scalp is coveredwith thick scale or doesnt clear up, do consult your GP. There is a wide rangeof topical treatments that can beprescribed including coal tar, dithranol, salicylic acid, steroid creams andointments, Vitamin D based treatments, as well asoils for moisturising the scalp, such as coconut oil. Various scalp treatments are available in cream, ointment,mousse, gel or shampoo formulations. If your scalp psoriasis is particularly difficult to treat, yourGP may refer you to a Dermatologist, Dermatology Nurse Specialist, or GP with aSpecial Interest in skin.
Signs And Symptoms Of Scalp Psoriasis
- Scalp psoriasis is characterized by raised, scaly patches that are red or reddish in colour.
- Silver or white scales may be visible on the skin of the scalp.
- Flakes similar to dandruff may be seen on the scalp region.
- The scalp and other affected areas get dry and itchy.
- Burning and soreness may be experienced in the affected regions.
- Hair loss results from excessive scratching of the itchy areas, due to harsh treatments, or due to stress.
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Is It Better To Wash Your Hair More Or Less With Psoriasis
Scalp psoriasis may improve with the use of special shampoos, particularly tar products or medicated shampoos. People with specific skin and scalp conditions should discuss their ideal hair care regimen with a dermatologist. By contrast, some medical conditions may get worse with frequent washing.4 days agoDaily hair washing: Recommendations and alternatives
Seek Guidance On Herbs And Supplements
Numerous herbs and supplements have been touted for ant-inflammatory properties that purport to help the immune system and fight inflammation yet both Dr. Gohara and Dr. Wechsler say there isnt enough research yet to know for sure. Be sure to talk with your dermatologist about dosage, drug interactions, and side effects before trying the following popular herbs and supplements that are commonly touted for psoriasis:
Fish oil or omega-3 supplements: According to a 2014 meta-analysis published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, there is moderate evidence that fish oils might benefit people with psoriasis.
Probiotics: A small study of 26 patients with psoriasis showed that a specific type of probiotic called Bifidobacterium infantis 35624 may help regulate inflammatory responses in the body. Beyond supplements, probiotics are found in yogurt and fermented foods.
Tumeric: This centuries-old spice is touted for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and can be found in curries as well as supplement form. Studies have found that turmeric alters TNF cytokine expression, which for some, can help minimize psoriasis flares.
Mahonia aquifolium : Also known as barberry, this flowering plant native to North America has been studied in the treatment of mild to moderate plaque psoriasis.
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Systemic Treatments And Uv Light
If you have moderate to severe psoriasis elsewhere on your body, one of these medications may help:
- Methotrexateslows an enzyme involved in the rapid growth of skin cells.
- Oral retinoids help control the growth of cells.
- Cyclosporinelowers the immune system function, and therefore helps to reduce the inflammation of psoriasis.
- Biologics target specific parts of the immune system that are overactive in psoriasis.
Talk with your doctor about the potential side effects of these treatments.
Ultraviolet light is another treatment option. Hair can block the light from reaching your scalp, so if you have thick hair, it may help to part it in rows. Hand-held devices can directly deliver light to your scalp.
The Nitty Gritty Of Scalp Psoriasis
Its easy to think that patches of dry, itchy skin on the scalp are caused by some kind of lack of hygiene. But cleanliness has nothing to do with scalp psoriasis.
Psoriasis is actually a chronic inflammatory disorder caused when the immune system doesnt work quite right. Doctors arent sure why, but some people have an immune system that churns out too many skin cells. Since the body cant get rid of these excess cells fast enough, they pile on top of each other, forming flakey, silvery scales.
Psoriasis can pop up anywhere on the body, but when it shows up on your head, dry skin patches can appear under the hair, on the back of the neck, and behind the ears.
Its easy to confuse psoriasis with dandruff, and sometimes dermatologists arent so sure themselves. When it looks like a blend between psoriasis and dandruff, they call it sebopsoriasis a cute couples name for seborrheic dermatitis, aka dandruff, and psoriasis.
However, some clues that your scalp irritation might be psoriasis include more defined or patterned pink scale-like plaques.
Dandruff looks more like generalized greasy flaking with pink patches. Over-the-counter shampoos can typically knock out dandruff, but scalp psoriasis is a little harder to treat.
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Coconut Or Avocado Oil
Coconuts and avocadoes are filled with healthy fats that boost skin health. Massage a few drops of either type of oil, cool or lightly heated, onto your scalp and put on a shower cap. Wait 20 minutes, remove the cap, then wash your hair as usual. This can reduce and remove some of the scaling associated with the condition.
Shop for avocado and coconut oil.
Here’s A List Of 7 Effective Home Remedies For Scalp Psoriasis:
1. Apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar has anti-bacterial properties. It can help reduce the redness, soreness and irritation caused due to scalp psoriasis. It contains antiseptic properties that which prevents recurring infections. To use apple cider vinegar as a home remedy for scalp psoriasis, add 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar to half a cup of water. This reduces burning sensations. Apply it to the affected areas for 20 minutes. Repeat this twice a week. Rinse the scalp with lukewarm water. Do not use apple cider vinegar if the scalp is cracked or bleeding. Vinegar will sting and cause more irritation if you have any open wounds. It is one of the best home remedies for scalp psoriasis.
Home remedies for scalp psoriasis: Apple cider vinegar should not be used if there are open wounds on the scalp.
2. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera gel, when applied to the scalp, gives a soothing effect. It can help with itchiness and irritation caused due to scalp psoriasis. Its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties help you treat psoriasis naturally. Use fresh aloe vera gel along with lavender oil for better results. After every sitting, wash your hair with a mild, medicated shampoo.
Home remedies for scalp psoriasis: Aloe vera gel, when applied to the scalp. provides a soothing effect
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3. Coconut oil
Home remedies for scalp psoriasis: Coconut oil is one of the best home remedies for scalp psoriasis
5. Yogurt
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Home Remedies For Psoriasis: Do They Work
Every case of psoriasis is unique, so there isnt a single method for effectively treating the disease.
Along with discussing treatment options with your doctor or dermatologist, there are home remedies that you may find work well for you.
Here are eight home remedies that have shown some promising results in providing relief for psoriasis symptoms.
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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Tea Tree Oil Keeps The Scalp Infection
Tea tree oil, an essential oil distilled from the leaves of a plant native to Australia, has anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties that can help keep the scalp free of infection,which may result from frequent scratching.
If you have dandruff, psoriasis, or a dry, itchy scalp, mix 1 part tea tree oil to 10 parts olive oil and dab the affected areas with a cotton ball. Leave it on for five minutes before rinsing out.
“While there is no scientific evidence to support the use of tea tree oil for psoriasis, some people report it works, says Stefan C. Weiss, MD, a dermatologist at the Weiss Skin Institute in Boca Raton, Florida. But Dr. Weiss cautions that it can cause an allergic reaction in others. If you’re thinking of trying tea tree oil, test it first by applying a small dab on a healthy patch of skin on the inner arm before using it on your scalp.
Apply Aloe Vera To Scalp
The soothing properties of aloe vera can have some healing properties for people with mild to moderate scalp psoriasis. Aloe vera creams that contain 0.5 percent aloe can help reduce itching, inflammation, flaking, and redness on the scalp. Aloe should be applied up to three times per day to keep skin moist. It may take up to a month to start feeling and seeing positive effects.
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Castor Oil For Psoriasis
Castor oil isnt an essential oil, but it can be used as a vehicle for applying essential oil. You can add essential oils to a castor oil base before application. This can help dilute the essential oil and prevent any adverse effects.
This natural emollient also works to soften skin. Anecdotal accounts suggest that cold pressed castor oil may help speed up healing and moisturize areas of dry, flaky skin when used daily.
Its also thought that applying castor oil directly to your skin may help remove toxins. It may improve immune function by increasing your count of disease-fighting lymphocyte cells.
Castor oil sold in stores may be chemically processed or sourced from seeds that have been sprayed with pesticides. You should read labels carefully, and proceed slowly to avoid side effects like skin irritation. You shouldnt use this oil if youre pregnant or breastfeeding.
Steroid Creams Or Ointments
Steroid creams or ointments are commonly used to treat mild to moderate psoriasis in most areas of the body. The treatment works by reducing inflammation. This slows the production of skin cells and reduces itching.
Topical corticosteroids range in strength from mild to very strong. Only use them when recommended by your doctor.
Stronger topical corticosteroids can be prescribed by your doctor and should only be used on small areas of skin or on particularly thick patches. Overusing topical corticosteroids can lead to skin thinning.
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Scalp Psoriasis Treatment Guideline 4
Topical treatment of psoriasis affecting the scalp
- Topical corticosteroids. These drugs are the most frequently prescribed medications for treating mild to moderate psoriasis. They reduce inflammation and relieve itching and may be used with other treatments. Your doctor may prescribe stronger corticosteroid ointment applied once daily for up to 4 weeks as initial treatment for people with scalp psoriasis. Steroids can be absorbed through the skin and affect internal organs. This occurs when a steroid is excessively misused, such as when applied to widespread areas of skin, used over long periods of time or used with excessive occlusion. Women who are pregnant or nursing should discuss the use of steroids with their health care provider. Topical steroids can be absorbed through the skin and get into breast milk.
- Do not offer coal tar-based shampoos alone for the treatment of severe scalp psoriasis.
Coal Tar
Tar derived from both coal and wood are both used for medicinal purposes. However, coal tar is the type used most commonly to treat psoriasis. Tar can help slow the rapid growth of skin cells and restore the skins appearance. In addition, it can help reduce the inflammation, itching and scaling of psoriasis. Tar products can vary dramatically from brand to brand. Generally, the higher the concentration of tar, the more potent the product.
Salicylic Acid
Consider topical vitamin D or a vitamin D analoguex, alone for the treatment of scalp psoriasis only in people who: