Community Recommendations: Alternative Treatments for Scalp Psoriasis

Scalp psoriasis can be one of the most challenging areas to treat and hide. Mainstream solutions may not be the best fit for everyone. Perhaps you have tried other solutions without success, or maybe you want to try an alternative approach before trying things that may require a prescription.

Real insight from real patients

The use of natural treatment options can be effective for some individuals when used in conjunction with traditional treatment options. To find out what unique treatments are working for community members, we reached out to followers of our Facebook page. We asked members to tell us: “What is your favorite alternative treatment to ease your scalp psoriasis?”

More than 50 community members shared. Here is a look at the solutions that have brought them relief from scalp psoriasis.

Stop using hair products

Just as an elimination diet can help you find out which foods are causing negative reactions, it can help to stop using all hair products. Several community members shared that they stopped using hairsprays, gels, and anything else that could irritate the scalp. They also stopped using shampoos with parabens and sulfates.

“I do not use any hair products except Head & Shoulders shampoo. No hair spray, no gel, no wash-out conditioner. If you must condition, use leave-in and do the hair only, not the scalp.”

“I quit using shampoo. Instead, I only use a co-wash. Do not use anything with parabens/sulfates.”

Apply coconut oil

A handful of community members swear by coconut oil. It is an excellent moisturizer and also boasts antifungal and antibacterial properties. Several suggested massaging it into the scalp and leaving it on for 10 minutes or so before washing it out.

“I use coconut oil, and it helps me.”

“EVOO or coconut oil, and a hard-bristle natural brush.”

Consider a water softener

For some people, hard water may be the culprit behind their skin irritation. Some community members shared that you may want to have your water evaluated and add a water softener. One of the easiest ways of showering with softened water is adding a filter right on the showerhead. This option is much cheaper than installing a whole-house system.

“Put a water softener filter on my showerhead.”

Shave your head

This solution may feel drastic and will not be right for everyone. For those who are ok with going hairless, a bald head may provide quick relief from scalp psoriasis. If you are not comfortable shaving your head, cutting your hair short may be a helpful approach.

“Shaving the head is the best alternative treatment. Then wash every day.”

“Shaved head/sunburn always worked.”

“Keeping my hair cut short helped me. My scalp was able to breathe.”

Apply diluted apple cider vinegar

A couple community members mentioned that apple cider vinegar gave them relief from scalp psoriasis. They pointed out that it is important to first dilute the vinegar with lots of water before applying to the scalp. For some people, this approach works to calm irritated skin. However, others found that apple cider vinegar only makes their skin drier.

“I wash my hair with baking soda, then rinse it out with water and apply apple cider vinegar (75 percent water/ 25 percent apple cider vinegar). Then I rinse that with water. My scalp psoriasis has not returned.”

Try light therapy

Several community members shared that they found success with various light therapies, mainly UVB treatments. UVB light acts much like the sun does and slows the growth of the plaque psoriasis skin cells. A few community members mentioned XTRAC therapy, which is a specific system that applies UVB light.

“Get light therapy.”

“UVB treatment.”

Thank you!

It’s important to note that home remedies can help ease symptoms but they’re not proven cures. The following home treatments are generally safe and may help you reduce the symptoms of mild to moderate scalp psoriasis. Those with more aggressive forms of the condition should consult a doctor before starting home treatment.

Thank you to everyone who offered suggestions for this story. We appreciate hearing a wide variety of answers from so many different people.