The science of scalp psoriasis is still troubled by several unanswered questions. We still don’t know what exactly causes it.
Also, there is no permanent cure for this chronic skin condition. But, do all these imply succumbing to the severity of scalp psoriasis without consistent efforts on our part?
Surely, no! Instead of blaming your luck (or lack of it), you can prep for a better life even with scalp psoriasis.
It is possible to get the best out of the sources of psoriasis interventions. So, explore with us its effective treatment options!
What is Scalp Psoriasis Exactly?
It can be simply taken as a case when psoriasis appears on the scalp. But, specifically, it is a type of plaque psoriasis that causes scaly patches.
The mechanism of scalp psoriasis is the same as that of psoriasis. It involves new skin cells piling up on the skin surface. However, this is faster and more active compared to normal skin cell growth.
The area below the affected skin appears red and swollen. This condition, over time, gives scaly plaques.
Its Prevalence
Psoriasis affects approximately 125 million people across the world. Among these affected individuals, 45 to 56% develop scalp psoriasis.
People irrespective of age or gender may have this skin condition. It can start from late teens to early adulthood. But, it can also start later in life.
What Causes Scalp Psoriasis?
We have yet to know a specific cause behind scalp psoriasis or any types of psoriasis. However, researchers and doctors think a faulty immune system is a culprit.
It may happen due to the overproduction of T cells. This action encourages destroying healthy cells and creating more skin cells. Also, having cases of scalp psoriasis in the family can increase the chances of having it.
It is necessary to highlight that scalp psoriasis is not contagious. That implies the possibility of genes playing a role in causing this.
Its Risk Factors
We may need more research evidence to pinpoint its exact cause. But, its risk factors are quite known.
The risk factors include the following.
- Obesity
- Smoking
- Autoimmune diseases or AIDS
- Chronic stress
Also, having psoriasis increases the possibility of having scalp psoriasis.
Its Triggers
Many factors deteriorate or trigger associated impacts of scalp psoriasis.
- Food allergy
- Stress
- Hormonal issues
- Excess exposure to sunlight
- Alcohol
- Skin injury
- Dry and cold climate
- Side-effects of medications like beta-blockers, interferon, and antimalarial drugs
Symptoms of Scalp Psoriasis
The signs and symptoms of this skin condition vary based on its severity. The mild cases include fine scaling. On the other hand, the severe ones accompany thick scaling and swollen red patches.
But, it usually involves the following.
- Itchy scalp
- Reddish patches
- Burning sensation in the affected areas of the scalp
- Dandruff like flakes
- Dry scalp
It may also cause hair loss. But, it usually grows back after the skin heals up. Also, scalp psoriasis may cause bleeding in the affected areas.
Its Impacts
As scalp psoriasis spreads, it affects the neck, forehead, and areas surrounding the ears.
Severe impacts of this type or any other psoriasis include psoriatic arthritis. It represents chronic inflammatory disease affecting joints and areas connecting bones and tendons or ligaments. It may occur after 7 to 10 years of getting psoriasis.
This affects approximately 30% of people with psoriasis. But, in some cases, this type of arthritis occurs before or without psoriasis.
Also, the overlapping of psoriasis’s biochemical pathway with other autoimmune diseases like type 1 diabetes has great medical implications. This shows that scalp psoriasis may be an indicator of serious chronic diseases.
How to Diagnose Scalp Psoriasis?
Leaving psoriasis not diagnosed and untreated worsens the condition leading to diabetes and psoriatic arthritis. So, it is crucial to detect scalp psoriasis in its mild form.
But, its resemblance with skin disorders like seborrheic dermatitis calls for specific diagnostic strategies. So, any healthcare professional specializing in skin diseases will opt for a biopsy of skin samples.
Also, current medical diagnosis involves checking the affected areas and analyzing health conditions.
Psoriasis Treatment as Recommended by The National Psoriasis Foundation
There are many treatments available for psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis (its complications). It really comes as good news, given its chronic nature.
The National Psoriasis Foundation outlines four treatment options for scalp psoriasis.
Over-the-counter Options
It may act as a remedy for mild cases. Check for the presence of salicylic acid and tar in over-the-counter products.
The former helps to remove scales, while the latter can reduce inflammation and itching. But, before buying these products, check for the seal of recognition that guarantees their safety for use.
Topical Treatments
Treating scalp psoriasis with a topical treatment may involve fuss owing to the presence of hair. So, it necessitates chalking out the right treatment plan given the varieties of topical treatments.
Furthermore, these depend on how you take care of your scalp and hair. So, talk to health and wellness professionals to get the best advice.
Generally, topical treatments include topical steroids, a widely accepted common therapy. Besides that, it includes medicated shampoos like tar shampoos.
Using a coal tar shampoo is also effective and safe, given its recommendation by dermatologists for more than 100 years. Its combined use with corticosteroids heals affected skin. However, pregnant or lactating mothers and people who are sensitive to sun exposure may need different treatments.
Anti-fungal shampoos can be effective in removing dandruff-like flakes in scalp psoriasis. But, since this has got nothing to do with fungus, these shampoos may have limited or poor results.
Systemics
This involves a combo of oral medicines and biologics. The former targets the symptoms. But newer varieties selectively focus on molecules of immune cells.
It aids in treating the hyperactive responses that cause psoriasis inflammation. Examples include methotrexate.
Biologics have higher selectivity and target immune actions responsible for disease progression. These aim to prevent or slow down cellular activities responsible for psoriasis. Examples include Enbrel and Humira.
The effectiveness and safety of this treatment depend on getting the correct combo of oral medicine and biologics. Also, this option is valid for patients who are non-responsive or responding adversely to other therapies.
Photo-therapy
It includes light therapy. This encompasses the use of ultraviolet light to prevent faster cell growth in psoriasis.
UVB rays are the much talked about way of treating psoriasis. UVB rays can be used for treating moderate to severe cases of scalp psoriasis.
This UV light reduces the abnormal growth of skin cells in psoriasis. Treating scalp psoriasis in clinical settings involves exposing affected areas to an artificial light source with UVB rays.
Other Promising Treatments for Scalp Psoriasis
Natural Remedies
Chronic plaque psoriasis calls for scalp treatments that can be targeted by natural methods.
Getting exposure to natural sunlight is good for treating scalp psoriasis. But, moderation is the key.
The use of oils may also manage symptoms of scalp psoriasis. These include coconut oil which may ease away the pain in affected scalp areas.
Also, olive oil can be considered effective owing to its moisturizing and anti-inflammatory action.
Apart from oils, one can use aloe vera to ease symptoms of scalp psoriasis. Its skin healing and soothing properties help in treating the associated redness, inflammation, and itching.
Besides these, an aqueous solution of baking soda can be considered another natural home remedy. It treats itchiness and helps in removing dead skin cells.
Medications
To treat scalp psoriasis, medications are common go-to options. These include corticosteroids, cyclosporine, apremilast, and methotrexate.
However, these apply to moderate to severe cases. Also, they come with side effects like liver damage. Thus, taking these medicines call for consultations with doctors.
Other medications include a vitamin A derivative called Soriatane. These oral vitamin supplements act better compared to over-the-counter ones.
Supplements
You will find a good number of reports concentrating on vitamin D and scalp psoriasis online. These reports place immense importance on having diets with optimum vitamin levels.
So, you can have oral supplements containing vitamin D. There are also topical vitamin D oils.
These may feel effective in treating the affected scalp. But, these do not show efficacy in treating recurrences.
Something More Holistic
Clinically Proven To Permanently Cure Psoriasis: Psoriasis Revolution
The majority of the treatments for scalp psoriasis include prescription medications and focus on the symptoms. But, this may not give the full-fledged healing you need. This brings us to something holistic and amazingly effective like the Psoriasis Revolution.
However, this is not a formula food or topical medication. This is a 250-page e-book prescribing holistic treatment for psoriasis types, including the scalp one. It targets mental, emotional, and physical health, chalking out a full-fledged plan.
Plus, its creator claims the power-packed techniques in the e-book eliminate psoriasis permanently. The knowledge it imparts enables you to prevent flare-ups. You can achieve healing without costly creams or medicines with anti-inflammatory properties.
Besides that, the given instructions are easy and practical, excluding the consumption of excess time and money. What’s more? It chalks out treatment strategies for people sensitive to common therapies for scalp psoriasis.
Shop Psoriasis Revolution Digital Program at the Official Website.
Full Article: Psoriasis Revolution Review 2024: Does it Really Work?
How to combat Psoriasis-induced hair loss?
Scalp psoriasis can cause hair fall and make you worry. However, it should be remembered this skin condition has nothing to do with hair health. But then again, temporary hair loss is the bystander effect of scalp psoriasis.
Furthermore, the itching and inflammation may cause an urge to scratch the scalp frequently. Scratching can contribute to the shedding of hair.
The American Academy of Dermatology Association brings you effective and safe ways to manage psoriasis-induced hair fall. These are:
- Gentle combing
- Using shampoos only recommended by doctors
- Stop using hair styling gels and creams
- Don’t use hair dryers or heat treatments
- No tricky hairstyles that require a lot of cosmetics on hair or scalp
- Avoid hair treatments like dyeing and curling
- Last, but most importantly, stop scratching your affected scalp.
Also, you need to treat hair loss from the earlier phase. Use these strategies right from the time you get diagnosed with scalp psoriasis.
With these easy techniques, don’t let scalp psoriasis take away the glamor of your crowning glory- your hair. However, the American Academy of Dermatology emphasizes treating scalp psoriasis to get your hair health back to normal condition.
Also, it’s important to note that what works for others may not go well for you. So, don’t start using shampoo just because someone else is getting a good result with it.
>> Related Article: The Dangers of Untreated Cold Urticaria: Complete Guide 2024
Its Prevention
You cannot prevent scalp psoriasis. But, you can certainly manage triggers to reduce symptoms.
Here are some handy tips to prevent complications of scalp psoriasis.
- Having a healthy diet containing vitamin D
- Turmeric to prevent any flare-up
- Good stress management includes knowing your stress triggers and addressing these and yoga
- Saying no to alcohol
What Can You Do on Your Part?
People harbor misconceptions about the symptoms. Thinking scalp psoriasis is infectious negatively impacts the mental health of affected people.
It does nothing but prevents the patient from getting the required support. Also, considering them as untouchables elevates the level of depression which may already be present well thanks to the disease.
So, if you have misconceptions regarding its symptoms, please educate yourself. If you notice others having the same wrong ideas, consider educating them too.
If you have this chronic condition, you can check out the online resources of several organizations. Refer to the National Psoriasis Foundation and the American Academy of Dermatology. Also, you can consider taking a look at the online pages of your regional organizations.
A chronic condition like this can make one feel isolated from social interactions. If you are having difficulty battling your negative thoughts, you can join support groups.
Besides all these, you can donate to research and non-profit organizations involved with scalp psoriasis work. Working there as a volunteer is also another good enough option.
Conclusion
Scalp psoriasis is tricky and hazardous. Its association with serious health issues makes it more troublesome. Also, a condition like this is sure to cause poor mental health.
Life with psoriasis may be difficult, but it’s not impossible to still live a happy life. With several smart strategies like UV light, you can prevent it from getting out of hand. Also, having a healthy lifestyle goes a long way in easing its symptoms.
You can opt for Psoriasis Revolution to get significant improvements while treating scalp psoriasis. It is safe and effective. The program focuses on natural methods. Also, it focuses on ways to improve mental health, which significantly deteriorates in individuals having psoriasis.
Having good creams and shampoos can cause an external cure for scalp psoriasis. But, this e-book lays down strategies that prevent psoriasis from coming back. So, despite having other treatments, without this, you may not get the holistic cure you need.
Click Here to Get Psoriasis Revolution Program at Discounted Price.
>> Related Article: What Causes Eczema Flare-ups? 8 Possible Triggers & Treatments
Scalp Psoriasis FAQs
Will Mild Scalp Psoriasis Resolve on its Own?
The mild cases may get cured on their own. But, it never guarantees the absence of future flare-ups.
Also, having a timely diagnosis and proper treatment of apparently mild cases goes a long way in preventing severe psoriasis. So, it’s better if you keep a treatment plan handy irrespective of its severity.
Can Severe Scalp Psoriasis Become a Cause of Major Concern?
Yes, it intensifies the symptoms and causes great discomfort. Also, having severe scalp psoriasis severely deteriorates mental health. So, it can become a health concern.
However, scalp psoriasis may indicate cancer or psoriatic arthritis. So, having this skin condition may necessitate keeping yourself updated with regular health checkups.
Can Psoriasis Treatment Negatively Impact the Entire Scalp?
It does not influence the entire scalp. But, the treatments may lead to hair loss.
So, it’s better to rely more on natural and sustainable solutions. Also, consult with your healthcare professional to know the side effects of psoriasis treatments.