Scalp Psoriasis Treatment
What is Scalp Psoriasis?
Seborrheic scalp psoriasis usually consists of red, scaly patches that may appear lumpy. The edges of these patches tend to be well defined. Psoriasis on the scalp is common and, in many cases, it is the only area affected. Seborrheic scalp psoriasis can extend beyond the hairline, onto the forehead. Psoriasis of the scalp does not damage the hair follicle and is not associated with hair loss, but if the scale is thick and forms hard lumps, it may lead to temporary hair thinning. The scalp may be the first site on the body to be affected by psoriasis.
Scalp psoriasis can be very mild, with slight, fine scaling. It can also be very severe with thick, crusted plaques covering the entire scalp. Seborrheic scalp psoriasis can be extremely uncomfortable. It is often very itchy, and the psoriatic patches that are inflamed and sore can start to bleed if they are scratched or picked. Seborrheic scalp psoriasis is not caused by poor hygiene or hair care. Itchiness can inflame and irritate the condition.
The Symptoms of Scalp Psoriasis
Seborrheic scalp psoriasis may resemble severe dandruff. Patches of thick, flaky skin may extend to the forehead below the hairline.It can be difficult to tell the difference between scalp psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis. Both are common conditions that frequently affect the scalp and hairline. Both are defined as areas of itchy, red, scaly skin. The difference is that the scales associated with scalp psoriasis are thicker and will appear to be drier in appearence than are the scaling associated with seborrheic dermatitis.
Psoriasis usually occurs in more than one location. Therefore, if you have an outbreak of scalp psoriasis, you could also have mild case of psoriasis elsewhere on the body or even changes to the nails. The face itself is usually unaffected; this is an important feature in the diagnosis of scalp psoriasis due to the fact that with rosacea you can have episodes of seborrheic dermatitis.
Cause of Scalp Psoriasis
Scalp psoriasis occurs when there is inflammation in areas of the skin where sebaceous glands are concentrated. It usually affects the scalp, but can also affect other parts of the body, such as eyebrows. Scalp psoriasis appears to run in families. Stress, fatigue, weather extremes, oily skin, infrequent shampoos or skin cleaning, use of lotions that contain alcohol, or skin disorders such as acne or obesity may increase the risk. Neurological conditions, including Parkinson's disease, head injury, and stroke can all contribute to the occurrence of scalp psoriasis. Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is also associated with higher incidence.
Scalp psoriasis begins gradually, with dry or greasy scaling of the scalp. The affected areas are oily and red, and may or may not be itchy. Every month, our skin replaces its cells. As these skin cells rise to the surface, they shed. They generally go unnoticed, but if they stick together in clumps, the dry scalp flakes are easily seen.
Treatment of Scalp Psoriasis
Jojoba oil may be used to condition hair and scalp, prevent dryness, and reduce scaling. Jojoba oil is superior to olive or other vegetable oils or mineral oils. Jojoba oil is most effective when it is applied directly to the scalp and hair prior to shampooing.
When using jojoba oil as a scalp treatment: · Warm the oil to body temperature. Massage it into damp hair and scalp, towel-wrap hair and scalp, maintaining warmth and allow the Jojoba oilto penetrate for at least 30 minutes prior to shampooing. · If your hair is very thick hair, apply the oil after shampooing and toweling dry, Leave it in. · During the day, thoroughly rub a drop of two of oil into your hands and then pass your hands through your hair and scalp. Remember:Less is more effective - use reasonable amounts of the oil. If you use too much, simply shampoo again. You will quickly discover the combination of amount and saturation time best for you.
Psoriasis-Ltd is quite effective for use on scalp psoriasis. Simply dampen the fingers with water, and wet the affected area of the scalp with the finger. Then apply the disk by gliding it over the affected area to dissolve a small amount onto the area using a circular motion with only one small application of about 2-4 seconds. For several spots in the scalp, take the time necessary to hit all the spots.
