5 Tips for Managing Scalp Psoriasis

Scalp psoriasis is one of the most challenging things to deal with. The hair makes clearing out the build-up of the plaques of dead skin very challenging. Especially if you have long hair, getting the actual pieces of dead skin cells off and out the hair is very difficult. It often leaves flakes behind and can leave one feeling very self-conscious.

With big pieces of skin that come off, often you will find that some of the hair also falls out. This has happened to me on a regular basis. I am unable to use medicated shampoos as my skin does not react well. Anything with corticosteroids in and I quickly see that my skin bleeds easily and is sensitive all the time.

This is the one place on my body where I get psoriasis that I do my absolute best not to scratch. The repercussion of scratching my head is simply too much for me, it is very painful. Scratching is quick to leave me with open wounds on my scalp. This has often led to infected sores and a very painful head. It also promotes hair loss, in my case.

Softening the scales

Finding ways to get rid of the buildup of scales has been hard for me. I do not always have someone to help me do this so I had to find ways to make it work. A lice comb is by far my favorite tool, it is gentle when used correctly and gets so much of the dead skin. Before I use one of these, I soak my head in a warm bath with Epsom salts. I find that it really makes a big difference in the lifting of the dead skin cells. Once I have soaked it through, I comb my hair through and make sure that I get as many dead skin cell bits as I can.

When applying products to my scalp, I am sure to apply them gently and with ease. No rubbing deeply into the scalp as it could easily affect my psoriasis and aggravate it. I lather apply it slowly and carefully, making sure to be thorough in the process. I do not wash or apply any products with harsh chemicals, I stay away from very hot air from hairdryers and straighteners where I can avoid it.

Keep it clean

Dirty hair is itchy hair for me, and dirty hair is also what causes me immense pain. Keeping my hair clean and my scalp is vital to feeling and coping with my scalp psoriasis. I use a menthol shampoo for the cooling effect, and the shampoo is gentle on my skin.

Making sure that I rinse all the product out is equally important, I make sure to rinse with cool water too, and find it very soothing after a menthol wash. If possible, I allow my hair to dry naturally after gently brushing it out before tying it up again.

Get support

Please be sure to raise any concerns with your doctor and/or dermatologist, even if you have a small spot on your scalp and you are unsure about what it is. Please bring it up, hopefully, you can get something to help you sooner rather than later. There are a variety of medications and products out there that could possibly help bring you relief from your symptoms.

Scalp psoriasis is not something to be ashamed of. Be gentle with yourself and please reach out to communities and loved ones to help you through this part of your journey. Grab a best friend and let them help you comb the scales out under careful guidance.