If you already have psoriasis, you are likely to develop scalp psoriasis. Approximately 50% of those patients will have at least one flare up of scalp psoriasis. It is quite common, but it’s important to know it is not contagious. Let’s learn more from a dermatologist’s scalp psoriasis guide.
A Common Skin Disorder
Scalp psoriasis shows up as red or salmon patches, sometimes raised and with white scales. It will appear on your scalp, behind the ears, at the hairline/forehead, and even the back of your neck. Those with darker skin will see a more purple color patch with gray scales.
You can flare with one patch, or it may cover your entire scalp.
Symptoms of Scalp Psoriasis
Beyond the obvious physical signs, the patches are extremely itchy. Other signs include: dry and flakey skin, a burning sensation, and temporary hair loss near the scalp patches. Avoid scratching, as too much scratching can lead to infection and bleeding.
Causes and Triggers
Doctors and medical researchers do not exactly know what causes scalp psoriasis, but it is believed to be an immune problem. Your immune system causes skin cells to grow too quickly, and the body does not have the ability to shed them normally. With scalp psoriasis, new skin cells form in days, not weeks.
There are a number of scalp psoriasis triggers including the following:
- Stress, a main trigger, can make your symptoms worse, and it can actually cause your first flare.
- Injury to your skin like a bruise or burn
- An infection like strep throat
- Certain drugs
Risk factors for scalp psoriasis can include the inflammation due to obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, and dietary factors like gluten sensitivity.
Treatment of Scalp Psoriasis
There is no cure, but there are treatments which can help like over-the-counter shampoos and topicals, light therapy and other oral treatments. At the first sign of scalp psoriasis contact Goodless Dermatology in Orlando and Celebration, FL. Scalp psoriasis can indicate you also have psoriatic arthritis. Many people have both conditions.
If over-the-counter treatment products are not producing results, you may be prescribed stronger drugs to reduce your flares and symptoms.
Contact Goodless Dermatology at (407) 566-1616 to schedule an appointment to help get your scalp psoriasis under control.