Scalp psoriasis (So-ry-uh-sis) is a skin problem that results from the overactive production and maturation of skin cells on the scalp. According to the National Psoriasis Foundation, approximately 125 million people worldwide suffer from this flaking scalp condition. Once your dermatologist has diagnosed what you probably thought was dandruff as scalp psoriasis, it can be a pretty tough pill to swallow. You may be wondering, “How’d I get scalp psoriasis? Is scalp psoriasis contagious? What does this mean? But don’t lose heart. While there is currently no cure for scalp psoriasis, there are a number of treatment options available.
Do I have Scalp Psoriasis?
There are currently no specific tests to confirm whether or not you have scalp psoriasis, though a skin biopsy can be done. Your doctor will likely perfom a visual test of the affected skin area to make a determination. The good thing is that psoriasis, seborrheic dermatis, and dandruff are all treated with similar products.
Types of Psoriasis Scalp Treatments
One thing about psoriasis is that it is a stubborn scalp condition to treat. Even the best topical ointments and shampoos will need to be combined, put in rotation, retired, and then reused later to keep the pesky flaking under control. Some psoriasis treatments can take as long as eight weeks to actually start working.
Over the Counter Scalp Psoriasis Treatments
Salicylic acid-based products
Salicylic acid is FDA-approved to fight scalp psoriasis. These shampoo and soap products work by softening and breaking up the old skin cells so that they can be removed through regular washing. Salicylic acid products are available both over the counter and with a prescription for stronger concentrations. The downside of these products is that they can be irritating to those with sensitive skin which is often the case with people already battling psoriasis. They can also weaken the hair to the point of breakage which is something most folks aren’t willing to deal with. (I wouldn’t!) Always use a quality conditioner after using one of these products, especially if your psoriasis treatment plan is several weeks long!
Tar-based products
Another common treatment for scalp psoriasis is tar-based products. These products are usually available over the counter and are used to treat mild to moderate forms of psoriasis. Unfortunately, most do not provide relief from the more severe forms of the condition. Ttreatment is typically combined with salicylic acid for better results. Tar-based gels and lotions can be applied to the scalp and allowed to remain overnight. The downside of tar-based treatments is that they can stain your pillows and sheets and often have a repulsive odor!
UV Light
Ultraviolet (UV) light is another common psoriasis treatment. UV light kills micro-organisms like bacteria, fungi, and lice and can provide relief to those with skin conditions like psoriasis. Since hair tends to block our scalp’s natural exposure to UV radiation, there are UV “combs” out on the market that help fill the void! As you comb your hair, these combs emit controllable levels of UV radiation through their teeth. However, there is a concern about risks for skin cancer increasing using UV tools, especially for those with fair skin.
By Prescription
Several popular prescription medications and steroid treatments can control scalp psoriasis. They are available in capsule, shampoo, injection, spray, foam and cream forms. Taclonex Scalp, anthralin, Dovonex, and Psoriatec are just a few prescription medicines that are used to control scalp psoriasis. However they, like tar-based products often require overnight treatment and can cause irritation and staining of the skin, hair and bedding. Medications taken by mouth or via an injection are also effective prescription treatments, but most are reserved for those with psoriasis affecting multiple areas of the body.
References:
National Psoriasis Foundation. Scalp Psoriasis.
Gibson, L. E. MayoClinic. Psoriasis.
