Scalp psoriasis  causes reddish plaque and dandruff-like flaking on the scalp. Various treatment options are available to control scalp psoriasis and its symptoms. Read on to get more information about  treatment for scalp psoriasis .

Scalp psoriasis is a skin disorder that can cause red, thick, itchy patches on the scalp. About 50% of patients with psoriasis may develop scalp psoriasis. Psoriasis is a chronic disorder, caused by chronic inflammation of the skin. Scalp psoriasis may occur with other forms of psoriasis. It mainly affects the back of the head; however, it can affect multiple distinct areas of the scalp or entire scalp. Scalp psoriasis may be mild causing only light scaling, or it may be severe causing crusted, thick scales all over the scalp. The symptoms of scalp psoriasis are visible, silvery-white scales, reddish plaque on the scalp and dandruff-like flaking. These thick scales and redness may also spread on the neck, forehead and behind the ears. There may be severe itching, soreness of the scalp, tender scalp, pain and a feeling of tightness.

In some severe cases of scalp psoriasis, there may be temporary hair loss. However, hair usually grows again after psoriasis is cured. In some cases, there may be a possibility of infections due to scratching and rubbing. Scalp psoriasis may cause involvement of gluteal fold of buttocks. Weakened immune system, hormonal changes and stress are some of the risk factors for scalp psoriasis. Flaking and constant itching can make the person feel very embarrassed. There are various treatment options for scalp psoriasis. Let’s take a look into the details about treatment for scalp psoriasis.

How to Treat Scalp Psoriasis

A number of treatment options can help in controlling the symptoms of scalp psoriasis. The treatment is aimed at relieving the signs and symptoms and controlling flare-ups. It includes the use of topical medications, medicated shampoos and phototherapy.

Topical therapy for scalp psoriasis includes corticosteroids, tazarotene, anthralin, calcipotriol/calcipotriene and tars. Topical medications are available in the form of creams, lotions, ointments, gels, foams and shampoos. These medications can be applied once or twice daily for several weeks or months. They can be applied for at least 15 minutes or left for several hours on the scalp.

Corticosteroids such as betamethasone, clobetasol, fluocinolone acetonide or hydrocortisone are most commonly used for the treatment of scalp psoriasis. They come in the form of lotions, creams, foams and shampoos, which can be used safely for a prolonged period. If scalp psoriasis is mild, involving a few areas, then intralesional steroid injections in the scalp areas are recommended.

Anthralin is also another effective medication for scalp psoriasis. Apply 0.25% or 0.5% anthralin on the scalp and leave it for about 30 minutes. Then wash it off. Calcipotriol/calcipotriene, a derivative of vitamin D, is also effective and safe medication that can be used for long term. Topical tazarotene is a retinoid resembling the properties of vitamin A. Apply a thin layer of the gel form of tazarotene to the scalp patches and leave it overnight.

This medication should be avoided during pregnancy.

Salicylic acid is an active ingredient used in several topical scalp psoriasis ointments. It can help to loosen the scales and relieve itching. However, this treatment is useful in mild scalp psoriasis. Another effective treatment is coconut compound ointment. It consists of a combination of salicylic acid, coal tar and sulfur. This ointment is rubbed over affected areas and left overnight. It is washed off with a medicated shampoo in the morning.

Some medicated shampoos are quite effective for treating scalp psoriasis. Coal tar shampoos are found to be useful for most patients. These shampoos consist of various active ingredients, which can help to relieve itching and remove scaling from the scalp. To achieve good results, rub the shampoo into the scalp and leave it for about 5-10 minutes. Then rinse off with warm water. Warm water helps to loosen and remove the scales easily. After shampooing, apply cortisone lotion to the scalp. Regularly comb your hair in order to remove any scaling.

If the scalp is infected by bacteria or fungus, then it can worsen your scalp psoriasis. This can be treated with antimicrobial prescription or antifungal shampoos. The latter can be used once or twice in a week.

Use of ultraviolet light is another effective treatment option. To achieve better results with UV light, you should cut your hair short or shave your head, so that UV light can reach to the scalp. The treatment involves the administration of a high intensity UV light with the help of a hand-held device called UV comb. This can help to remove plaques and repair the skin. Natural sunlight is also a good source of UV light and can be used to treat scalp psoriasis.

Scalp Psoriasis – Home Remedies

  Natural treatment for scalp psoriasis  constitutes a combination of herbs and essential oils. Regularly rinse your scalp with a product that contains sea salts. You can use the shampoo that contains sea salts or mix sea salts in your regular shampoo. Regularly massage your hair and scalp with a mixture of jojoba oil and aloe vera. Scalp massage of chamomile tea oil or olive oil offers soothing effect. The use of eucalyptus oil, lavender oil or neem oil is also beneficial. Neem oil helps to stop itching, while lavender oil is a soothing agent. These oils can also stimulate hair growth. Application of a conditioning mask made from olive oil, honey and avocado can also be helpful to reduce the symptoms. Use natural shampoos that contain jojoba or wheat germ oil. These shampoos can help to maintain moisture and keep the scalp healthy.

Besides these treatment options, regular exercises such as swimming, cycling and tai chi, nutritious diet and use of relaxation techniques will help to relieve stress and improve health, and contribute a lot in treating scalp psoriasis.

Natural Skin Care Treatments For Acne, Psoriasis And Eczema
The study concluded that a natural combination of honey, olive oil and beeswax can provide a [...]

Body Health Care: Go For an Herbal Psoriasis Cure
There are many people who prefer to use herbal treatments for their psoriasis.

Natural Treatments For Psoriasis
Yes, actually more than enough: with canola oil, olive oil, and many other cooking oil [...]