Scalp psoriasis
What is psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a common skin condition affecting about 3% of the population of the United Kingdom and Ireland.
How to recognise psoriasis
Psoriasis appears as raised red patched of skin covered with silvery scales. It is very simply a speeding up of the usual replacement processes of the skin. This process is the same wherever psoriasis occurs on the body.
Scalp psoriasis how does it feel?
There is thick scales and reddening that may also be obvious around the scalp margins, neck and behind the ears and on the forehead . Many people experience severe itching and a feeling of tightness and maybe some soreness.
When should I go to the doctor?
For those with scalp patches that flare from time to time it is possible to manage at home. Shampoo treatments are improving all the time and can be bought over the counter. Your pharmacist should be able to advise.
However, if it does not clear up do consult your GP who may arrange a referral to a Dermatologist. There is a range of treatments that can be prescribed including coal tar, dithranol, salicylic acid, steroid creams and ointments as well as Vitamin D based treatments.
How to apply the treatment
The method of applying in the treatment is most important. It involves parting the hair in sections and rubbing the treatment along the exposed areas. It is best to do this in order, working your way around the hair. You may need someone to help you in order to see the top of your head properly. You will find that some treatments need to be left on and some need to be washed out after a set period of time. .
Can I comb my hair?
Providing care is taken to avoid scratching the scalp, combing and brushing to remove scaling is not only good but also necessary.
What about hair treatments?
Scalp psoriasis should not stop you having any cosmetic procedures. Having a perm or colouring the hair can have a positive effect on your self-esteem. Hair dyes are gentler than they used to be but it would be best to seek advice from a hairdresser who should have up to date information about possible options, rather than colour or treat your hair at home. It is a good idea to make sure there are no scratches on the scalp when the hair is treated as the chemicals concerned can cause irritation on the broken skin.
I am to embarrassed to go to the hairdresser
A good hairdresser should be able to help you manage your hair and scalp. Telephone in advance and speak to a stylist to explain the situation or try to find a hairdresser who will visit you at home.
My hair is coming out!
Some people with severe psoriasis suffer a thinning of the hair. This can be very upsetting but the hair will grow again once the flare-up has subsided.
Will it go away?
Psoriasis tends to come and go and it can and does go away. Some people may be lucky enough not to have a further flare up. Others may experience long periods of remission. It is unusual for anyone to suffer extensive scalp psoriasis for a long time provided they seek medical help and/or use good quality treatments as directed.
Helpful hints
· Brush and comb hair gently and regularly
· Buy some pillow case protectors or keep a supply of old pillow cases for times when you are using treatments
· Give all treatments a good chance to work – weeks rather than days
· Always read the instructions carefully on all treatments
· Tell your GP or Dermatologist if any treatment is causing you problems or discomfort
· Try different hairstyles to cover any psoriasis on the hairline
· Wearing light coloured clothes on the top half of your body will help to disguise falling scales
