Have you recently noticed changes in your scalp's skin texture? You could be grappling with scalp psoriasis, a skin condition that affects the scalp. In this comprehensive guide, Gilbride Pharmacy delves into the root causes of scalp psoriasis, highlights common symptoms and explores various shampoos and treatments designed to help manage this condition effectively.
What is Scalp Psoriasis?
Scalp psoriasis is a specific subtype of psoriasis, a skin condition characterised by the development of red, dry, flaky and scaly skin patches. In the case of scalp psoriasis, these patches emerge on the scalp, typically beneath the hair.
It's important to distinguish scalp psoriasis from seborrheic dermatitis, another condition resembling eczema, affecting the scalp, face and chest. To ensure accurate diagnosis and treatment, it's advisable to consult a healthcare professional before commencing any treatment.
Causes
Psoriasis stems from an underlying issue in the body's skin cell production process. In individuals with psoriasis, skin cells regenerate too rapidly, resulting in the buildup of immature skin cells on the skin's surface. This rapid turnover leads to the formation of red, flaky, scaly patches.
Researchers believe that an immune system dysfunction triggers psoriasis, and both genetic and environmental factors can contribute to its development. If there is a family history of psoriasis, your risk of developing it is increased.
Psoriasis flare-ups are often triggered by various factors, including:
- Skin injuries
- Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption
- Stress
- Hormonal fluctuations
- Certain prescription medications, such as lithium
- Throat infections
- Conditions affecting the immune system, such as HIV
It's crucial to note that psoriasis is not contagious, meaning it cannot be transmitted to others or acquired from someone else.
Symptoms
The symptoms of scalp psoriasis can vary in intensity. Key characteristics include dry, raised, red patches covered in silvery scales beneath the hair, referred to as "plaques." Individuals with scalp psoriasis may also experience:
- Skin shedding resembling dandruff
- Soreness or a burning sensation
- Itching
- A tight feeling on the scalp
These patches can appear in small areas or spread across the entire scalp. In some cases, scalp psoriasis may extend to the forehead, neck and behind the ears. The presence of hair can make plaques thicker since it prevents skin shedding. In severe cases, scalp psoriasis may lead to temporary hair loss, particularly if plaques are thick, if the affected skin is scratched or picked or if aggressive treatments are used. Fortunately, this hair loss is usually reversible.
Treatments
Managing scalp psoriasis can be more challenging than other psoriasis types because of the presence of hair, which can impede treatment application and slow down plaque removal. Nonetheless, numerous treatment options are available for this condition, primarily in topical forms directly applied to affected skin. These treatments aim to reduce inflammation, alleviate itching and regulate skin cell production.
Common topical treatments for scalp psoriasis include:
- Corticosteroids
- Vitamin D analogues
- Dithranol
- Coal tar
These products come in various forms, such as shampoos, lotions, solutions, foams, gels and ointments.
Mild If your symptoms are mild, you can often find over-the-counter treatments at Gilbride Pharmacy. Popular options include medicated shampoos like Neutrogena T/Gel Therapeutic Shampoo and Dermalex Scalp Psoriasis Gel.
Moderate-Severe For severe symptoms with thick plaques, prescription treatments recommended by your healthcare provider may be necessary. These prescriptions may contain corticosteroids, vitamin D analogues or dithranol. Examples of prescription products include Dermovate scalp application, Locoid scalp lotion, Dithrocream, and Dovobet gel.
Always follow your doctor's instructions when using these treatments, ensuring that you apply them directly to the scalp rather than the hair.
In addition to medicated treatments, consider using emollients on your scalp to soften thick plaques. Emollients are rich moisturisers that can alleviate itching, reduce inflammation and create a protective barrier, locking in moisture. To use emollients effectively:
- Massage the emollient into the scalp, section by section.
- Wrap your head with a towel, shower cap or cling film, leaving it on for at least one hour.
- Wash your hair using coal tar or regular shampoo.
- Gently use a comb to remove skin scales, taking care not to damage the skin.
- Comb scales out of your hair and wash it again.
Other Treatments
In severe cases of scalp psoriasis that do not respond to the described treatments, a dermatologist referral may be necessary. Advanced treatment options may include:
- Phototherapy using ultraviolet light
- Systemic treatments in tablet, capsule or injection forms
- Combination treatments, such as combining phototherapy with coal tar or dithranol
Before initiating any treatment for scalp psoriasis, consult with a pharmacist or healthcare professional. This ensures that you select the appropriate treatment for your specific needs and avoid any potential interactions with other medications you may be taking.
Visit Us
At Gilbride Pharmacy, we're here to assist you in managing scalp psoriasis effectively. Contact us via your local branch's page or pop in at your convenience.