Scalp psoriasis causes and treatment
According to the National Institutes of Health, as many as 7.5 million Americans have psoriasis. Of these people, about half have scalp psoriasis. Although this noncontagious condition has long been misunderstood, scientists now believe psoriasis is caused by a defect in the immune system that, among other symptoms, causes an overproduction of skin cells. This leads to inflammation and the buildup of large, silvery plaques on the skin's surface, especially on the knees, elbows, and scalp. The severity of scalp psoriasis can vary from slight scaling to thick, crusted plaques. Scalp psoriasis may look similar to seborrheic dermatitis, but there are differences. While seborrheic dermatitis scales usually appear yellowish and greasy, psoriasis scales appear powdery with a silvery sheen.
Coal tar and salicylic acid are the only over-the-counter shampoo ingredients approved to treat scalp psoriasis. Dermatologists may recommend a rotational therapy of these two ingredients (on different days) as an effective treatment for scalp psoriasis.
Scalp psoriasis causes and treatment
Step 1: Use a salicylic acid shampoo to help break down scales and crusting.
Step 2: Treat with a coal-tar shampoo to reduce inflammation and slow the overproduction of skin cells. This will help prevent scales from reforming.
Once symptoms have cleared, regular use of a medicated shampoo with coal tar or salicylic acid may help prevent the recurrence of symptoms. Severe cases of scalp psoriasis may require diagnosis and treatment by a dermatologist or other healthcare professional.
To learn more about caring for psoriasis—including scalp psoriasis—visit the National Psoriasis Foundation online.