Community Views: How to Manage Scalp Psoriasis

Psoriasis anywhere on the body is uncomfortable, but it is especially hard to tolerate on the scalp. When psoriasis shows up on your head, not only can people see it more easily, but it can also be harder to keep yourself from scratching this affected area.

Hear straight from real patients

The good news is that many people in the psoriasis community have found solutions to this challenge. To hear what is working for them, we reached out to followers of our Facebook page and asked: “What advice would you give a friend with scalp psoriasis?

More than 150 people responded to this hot topic. Here is what was shared.

Go to a dermatologist

Many community members shared that a great first step is to see a dermatologist. For them, the dermatologist removed a lot of guesswork, connecting them to immediate solutions.

“Go to a good dermatologist. I had it bad for almost 14 years before I went. Gave me scalp topical medicine and an as-needed topical. Now I barely have scales.”

“See a dermatologist.”

Start with shampoo

Several people shared that medicated or specially formulated shampoos are another good option to try. They are affordable and easy to use with little to no side effects. Do know that you may have to try a few before you find one that works for you.

“I use Dermarest Psoriasis medicated shampoo and conditioner. It has 3 percent salicylic acid, and I leave it on for 5 minutes. It helps remove the build-up. I buy it from any place that sells medicated shampoo.”

“Tea tree shampoo.”

Try prescription medicine

Depending on the severity of the plaque psoriasis on your scalp, a dermatologist may recommend prescription medicine to treat it. Many people in the community found that prescription medicine was a reliable solution that worked quickly.

“The doctor prescribed Cosentyx, and now my scalp is finally cleared.”

“I suffered for years trying everything. Finally tried Cosentyx, and within half an hour my head felt less itchy and the pain went away.”

“Humira did not help, but Cimzia does for me.”

Change your diet

This is one of the most complicated solutions that require trial and error, but it was also overwhelmingly the most popular answer shared in response to the prompt. The people who found relief from changing what they ate also shared that they had more energy and felt much better overall. Some people found that vegan or raw diets greatly helped clear up their scalp. Others found that avoiding gluten and other inflammation-causing foods worked wonders.

“An autoimmune diet.”

“Gut health is so much more important than people think.”

“Essential fatty acids in your diet.”

“Autoimmune diet, which means I avoid grains, gluten, and nightshade vegetables.”

“Lots and lots and lots and lots of fruit. A fruit-only diet for a loooooong time. It is working for me.”

“A vegan diet.

Try several solutions until you find what works

A handful of people were sure to point out that your healing is a journey, and what worked for someone else may not work for you. Do not give up. Stay the course and try a few things, and you will find relief from your scalp psoriasis.

“Just because something worked for 1 person does not mean it will work for you... and vice versa.”

“Keep trying new things. Something will finally work for you.”

“Keep trying until you find the right dermatologist and treatment for you.”

“Do not give up.”

Thank you!

When you have psoriasis, especially scalp psoriasis, it's important to follow the advice of your doctor. Still, you can do a lot on your own to help control and prevent flare-ups.

Thank you to everyone who shared feedback and advice for this story. We appreciate how active this community is in helping one another.