August marks Psoriasis Awareness Month, making it the ideal time to spread awareness about this condition, as well as the MONPURE treatment options that can alleviate its symptoms.
Psoriasis is an inflammatory and autoimmune skin condition that can affect the skin, including the scalp. It is caused by the rapid overproduction and build-up of skin cells, in which the immune system mistakenly sends signals to these skin cells to multiply too quickly. It manifests as raised patches of flaky, dry and reddened skin.
Unfortunately, this condition is chronic (meaning it has no cure), and presents itself in cycles or flare-ups. The exact cause is still contested, however, research points to a possible hereditary link. Around 2% of the UK population suffer with psoriasis, with most cases occurring before the age of 35.
What is scalp psoriasis?
Scalp psoriasis can affect the scalp, hairline, nape of the neck and around the ears. Other scalp conditions, such as dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis, may resemble psoriasis, however, scalp psoriasis appears powdery with a silvery sheen. Symptoms of severe scalp psoriasis can include:
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Itchiness
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Dry, flaky and red bumps
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A burning sensation
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Hair loss (psoriasis doesn’t cause hair loss, but inhibits the health of the hair growth environment).
Why is it important to shed light on psoriasis during the month of August?
There is a significant amount of misinformation and misconceptions about psoriasis. Many people assume this skin condition is contagious, which can lead to feelings of isolation for those affected. However, psoriasis isn’t contagious - it’s autoimmune - meaning the body’s immune system is attacking itself.
What are some triggers of psoriasis?
Psoriasis is aggravated in cycles for a few days or weeks, after which one goes into ‘remission’, whereby the symptoms are clear and just about unnoticeable. But what are some of the external triggers that can set off a new bout of psoriasis?
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Stress
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Heavy alcohol use
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Smoking
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Skin injury, including cuts, sunburns or bug bites
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Infection (strep throat is a common trigger)
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Pregnancy and hormonal changes
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Medications for high blood pressure, mood disorders or arthritis
Many psoriasis sufferers note that their condition worsens during winter and improves in warmer months with increased sun exposure (but beware of sunburn).
How can we alleviate your psoriasis at MONPURE?
For those battling with scalp psoriasis, MONPURE offers formulas that cannot cure the skin condition altogether, but can effectively alleviate and mitigate its symptoms. Our range boasts plant-based, high performance active botanicals that are free from synthetic and chemical processing. With sensitive skin conditions (like psoriasis) in mind, our products are scientifically and dermatologically tested to ensure that they are supremely gentle on the scalp, while still delivering flourishing results.
Purify Buildup
Our Clarifying Scalp Scrub’s jojoba beads gently buff away the excess skin cells and debris that psoriasis sufferers grapple with during a flare-up. By refining and purifying the scalp’s environment, it improves the absorption of its hydrating and soothing ingredients, argan oil and shea butter.
Combat Inflammation
Our Hydrate and Soothe Scalp Serum serves as the ultimate antidote to the dryness and irritation spawned by psoriasis. This calming concoction stars witch hazel and allantoin that soothe and relieve inflammation, while accelerating wound healing. Pro vitamin B5 is a deep penetrating moisturiser for the scalp, leaving the skin fortified and soothed.
Protect and Condition
Our Strengthening Essence-Conditioner’s lightweight formula performs a double-act with strengthening and moisturising properties. Vegan silk peptides’ breathable barrier function protects the compromised scalp from external aggressors, while argan oil and pro vitamin B5 nourish and hydrate in tandem.
Relieve and Nourish
Our Nourish and Stimulate Scalp Mask cultivates scalp health, while soothing, hydrating and relieving the discomfort provoked by psoriasis. Aloe vera, a famed anti-inflammatory, locks in moisture and soothes, while vegan silk peptides shield against environmental irritants. Camellia tea oil, rich in antioxidants, feeds the scalp essential nutrients.
