WHAT CAN HELP WITH SCALP PSORIASIS

Plaque Psoriasis Can Appear in Many Locations

Psoriasis can pop up almost anywhere on your body. It can occur on your hands, back, and even your nails. One place where psoriasis is more common than you might expect is your scalp. But the good news is you have treatment options to help manage it. First, let’s learn more about scalp psoriasis.

About 50% of people with psoriasis experience it on their scalp to some degree. Scalp psoriasis is often characterized by a dry, flaking scalp with itching, burning, or soreness. Symptoms can be milder, ranging to more severe, when it can be painful, embarrassing, and spread to the neck, forehead, and behind the ears.

TIP: Try not to scratch! Easier said than done, but scratching can cause bleeding, infections, and hair loss.

Speaking of hair loss, this can happen even if you don’t scratch. Don’t worry—it’s likely not permanent and your hair will usually grow back when your skin heals.

Seborrheic Dermatitis vs Psoriasis

Seborrheic dermatitis and plaque psoriasis can present very similarly. However, plaque psoriasis patches tend to look more silvery in appearance whereas seborrheic dermatitis scales can appear more yellowish. In order to know which one you have, it’s important to be seen by a dermatologist.

Find a Dermatologist for Your Psoriasis

The first thing you should do if you have scalp psoriasis is talk to a dermatologist. Don’t have one? Find one using our Dermatologist Locator. Only a dermatologist can assess how severe your scalp psoriasis is and suggest a treatment plan for your symptoms.

Your primary care doctor can help you find a psoriasis specialist who will help you manage your symptoms. For many, relief starts with finding the right dermatologist.

OTC Scalp Psoriasis Treatments

Sometimes you need quick relief. Over-the-counter products may help you temporarily relieve some of the symptoms of psoriasis. Here are a few things to consider.

Many scalp psoriasis shampoos and creams may help with symptoms. Look for products containing salicylic acid, lactic acid, urea, zinc pyrithione, or selenium to help soften plaques and calm itching, irritation, and redness.

Coal tar is another popular treatment that may offer temporary relief. For some, coal tar has been shown to slow skin growth and reduce inflammation. Careful though—it’s kind of messy and can stain if you’re not cautious.

Psoriasis Treatments

Learn more about available treatment options for psoriasis.

Get to Know Your Options

Home Remedies for Psoriasis

DID YOU KNOW: There are remedies to help manage scalp psoriasis with products you may already have in your pantry. While they can’t replace your dermatologist-prescribed medical treatment, these DIY tricks may be able to help with additional symptom relief.

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil can help gently soften scales. Apply to entire scalp, cover with a shower cap, and let it sit for 10-60 minutes. Wash your hair as usual, and plaques may be easier to remove.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar may be able to soothe itching. Put some in a spray bottle and apply it to your scalp a few times a week. If it’s uncomfortable, dilute it with water.

Salt Baths

Although there is no scientific evidence to support it, bathing with epsom salts may provide some relief from itching and lessen scales. Check with your dermatologist to see if it’s a home remedy worth trying.

Turmeric

Turmeric is known for having anti-inflammatory benefits that may help relieve psoriasis symptoms.

Curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, is thought to be behind turmeric’s ability to heal.

Ask your dermatologist if it’s okay for you to drink turmeric tea or apply a turmeric paste to your scalp for some relief.

Illustration of hand with bow tied around index finger

REMINDER: Don’t use home remedies if your scalp is cracked or bleeding. While they can help provide temporary relief for some, it’s important to keep your doctor in the loop about what you are using to manage your psoriasis.