Psoriasis is a condition that affects many of us, where the skin’s natural shedding process goes haywire, manifesting in itchy red patches. As well as appearing all over the body, it can also affect our scalp – which can be difficult to diagnose, as symptoms are very similar to other conditions such as dandruff and eczema. So how do you know that what you’re dealing with is actually scalp psoriasis – and more importantly, how do you treat scalp psoriasis? We enlisted the expertise of our resident dermatologist Dr Sue Ann Chan to find out more…
What is scalp psoriasis?
{Dr Sue Ann Chan} “Scalp psoriasis is where the skin becomes inflamed and cell turnover goes into overdrive, leading to a flaky scalp and scaly red patches of skin. This can cover the whole scalp or just occur in patches. It is thought to affect 2% of the population globally, and can occur at any age.”
Scalp psoriasis symptoms and signs
{Dr SC} “Frustratingly, psoriasis can be difficult to diagnose if you’re not medically trained. It usually manifests as dry, flaky skin on the scalp, which can also feel itchy and burning. You might notice that your scalp is itchy and flaky, but this isn’t necessarily psoriasis – it could be dandruff, eczema or something else. You may also have similar symptoms elsewhere on your body.
“If symptoms are causing you serious discomfort, it might be worth visiting your GP or a dermatologist to get an accurate diagnosis and scalp psoriasis treatment.”
What causes scalp psoriasis?
{Dr SC} “Psoriasis can be caused by a mix of genetics, immunity problems and environmental factors, such as sunlight and pollution. It tends to run in families (my psoriasis patients often report a close family member also having symptoms). Inflammation in our bodies is another driver of psoriasis, whilst stress and obesity can make symptoms worse.
“Other known exacerbating causes include trauma or injury on the skin, smoking, excessive alcohol intake, and using harsh chemical products which may irritate our scalp.”
Best scalp psoriasis treatment with natural ingredients
{Dr SC} “For serious cases, a medical professional can prescribe a course of medication or injections. Otherwise shampoos and lotions can keep it under control. The best shampoo for scalp psoriasis treatment (to treat serious, active cases) should be a tar-based shampoo – usually with coconut oil and salicylic acid to help dissolve the dead skin build-up.
“Elsewhere, MONPURE’s Hydrate and Soothe Scalp Serum contains anti-inflammatory witch-hazel to reduce redness. I would also recommend the Nourish and Stimulate Scalp Mask, with vitamin-rich camellia tea oil to boost the skin’s immune system and hydrate the scalp, to lessen the chances of a flare up, while peppermint and aloe vera work to soothe any itching and discomfort. To prevent scalp psoriasis from returning, MONPURE’s Strengthening Silk Protein Shampoo is mild enough that it won’t irritate the scalp-skin and cause a flare up.”
MONPURE’s gentle yet effective line was developed by a team of scientists, dermatologists and beauty experts, to help boost scalp health so your hair can flourish in the process. Shop the MONPURE range.
