Scalp psoriasis is a skin disease that can cause the appearance of red, scaly lesions on the head, which can itch and cause pain, in addition to hair loss at the site of the lesion.
In general, scalp psoriasis occurs due to changes in the immune system, in which the immune components themselves react against the body, causing inflammation and leading to the appearance of symptoms.
There is no cure for scalp psoriasis, but it can be treated and symptoms controlled with the use of specific shampoos, creams and medications, which must be recommended by a dermatologist.
Main symptoms
The main symptoms of scalp psoriasis are:
- Red, scaly lesions on the head;
- Itch;
- Loss of hair;
- Dor;
- Burning sensation.
In some cases, bleeding from the scalp may also occur, which is mainly caused by scratching the head. Furthermore, some of the symptoms can also spread from the scalp to the ears, back of the neck, neck or forehead.
How the diagnosis is made
The diagnosis of psoriasis on the scalp must be made by a dermatologist according to the signs and symptoms presented by the person and assessment of the scalp.
Furthermore, the doctor may recommend carrying out specific tests to rule out other changes in the scalp that may present similar symptoms.
Make an appointment with your nearest dermatologist, using the following tool, to have your symptoms assessed and treatment initiated, if necessary:
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Possible causes
The causes of scalp psoriasis are not yet well established, however the development of the disease has been related to autoimmune changes, in which the immune system’s own cells attack the body, leading to skin inflammation and the appearance of symptoms.
However, some situations can increase the risk of developing this type of psoriasis, such as having a parent with this disease, being overweight, being sensitive to gluten, using cigarettes, having high levels of stress, having low vitamin D. and having a problem that lowers immunity, such as HIV infection.
How the treatment is carried out
Treatment for scalp psoriasis must be carried out according to the dermatologist’s guidance, and may vary from person to person depending on the severity of the condition and the intensity of the symptoms.
1. Shampoos
Shampoos for scalp psoriasis must be recommended by the dermatologist, as well as the amount of product and treatment time. Most of the time, these shampoos are used in conjunction with other medications, and serve to relieve itching and reduce scalp flaking caused by psoriasis.
Shampoo containing 0.05% clobetasol propionate is one of the most used to treat scalp psoriasis. Furthermore, some shampoos based on vitamin D, tar, salicylic acid, may also be indicated to treat this type of psoriasis.
When washing your hair with these shampoos, you must not force the psoriasis scabs to come out, as this can cause bleeding and cause infections. It is recommended to apply the shampoo and wait a few minutes for the product to act, and then rinse with warm water to help soften the scabs. Then, you can comb your hair with a soft-bristled brush.
2. Use of medications
Some medications may be recommended by the doctor, as the use of shampoo alone does not always improve symptoms.
Therefore, the doctor may recommend the use of immunosuppressants, such as cyclosporine, which act on the immune system, reducing the action of defense cells against the skin, but are generally indicated in more serious cases.
Other medications used to treat people with scalp psoriasis in more advanced stages are methotrexate and oral retinoids. See more about psoriasis medications.
3. Natural treatment
Despite not having a cure, scalp psoriasis manifests itself from time to time, being more frequent in times of greater stress. Therefore, it is important to have habits that help reduce stress, such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising and carrying out leisure activities. See what your diet should be like to reduce psoriasis attacks.
Furthermore, some people may experience bouts of anxiety and depression that worsen psoriasis symptoms, and in these cases it is recommended to consult a psychologist and/or psychiatrist, as anxiolytic medications can help control psoriasis.
Some natural products can also help treat scalp psoriasis, such as aloe-based ointments., that reduce redness and flaking. Furthermore, it is recommended to sunbathe during cooler times, as sun exposure can improve injuries, in addition to increasing vitamin D levels in the body, which also helps fight psoriasis. Check out other natural remedies for psoriasis.
