Skin and Hair
More than just itchy scalp: Scalp Psoriasis
(NC)-Psoriasis is a common skin condition that affects more than one million Canadians. It appears as silvery skin patches, most often on joints such as knees and elbows, and is also found on the scalp where it can lead to severe itching as well as temporary hair loss and infection. Skin cells reproduce too rapidly and the cells accumulate to form a plaque or silvery patch as well as scales on the scalp surface. In treating scalp psoriasis, the goal is the removal of scales or plaques, medicating the scalp, and itch-relief - and still manage to have clean, healthy-looking hair.
Tips to Stop The Itch-Scratch-Psoriasis Cycle:
- Scales need to be softened and loosened before being gently removed. If scales are scraped away without prior treatment, hair can be removed with them. First apply agents such as baby oil/mineral oil or other prescribed preparations to a damp or wet scalp. Covering the scalp with a hot towel may help the product to penetrate the scalp; shower caps may be used in the case of overnight treatment.
- Treat the scalp, not the hair. Apply the oil or cream along the part of the hair. Massage product in and repart the hair two inches from the original site and repeat the process
- Once sufficiently softened, scales can be removed by gentle combing
- After combing, a tar shampoo will help remove additional scales and medicate the scalp by slowing down the rate of cell growth. A nice-smelling, all-in-one preparation such as Polytar AF with added salicylic acid, soothing menthol, and conditioners will dissolve scales, relieve itching while leaving hair soft and manageable
- Massage scalp treatments onto the scalp well, using finger tips and not fingernails
- Do not scratch or scrape the scalp. This can lead to infection or more psoriasis.
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