Dandruff and psoriasis are conditions that affect the skin. Although the two often present similar symptoms such as itching and flaking skin, they are very different. Dandruff is less serious then psoriasis and can be well controlled. Dandruff can generally be treated without the help of a dermatologist whereas psoriasis often requires professional care.
Dandruff
According to the Mayo Clinic, dandruff is a condition that affects the skin of the scalp. The condition is chronic and can be quite embarrassing. The token symptoms of dandruff are an itchy scalp with flaking skin. Dandruff is not contagious, is rarely serious, and can usually be well controlled.
Dandruff Treatment
Treatment for dandruff depends on the severity of the condition. The Mayo Clinic recommends daily cleansing with a gentle shampoo. Daily cleansing can help control the natural oils secreted by the hair as well as help prevent skin-cell buildup. With more severe cases, medicated shampoos may be useful. There are several types of medicated shampoos available that contain a variety of medications for the treatment of dandruff. The Mayo Clinic suggests leaving the shampoo on for at least five minutes to allow the medication time to work. If over-the-counter dandruff shampoos do not work, a dermatologist can prescribe a prescription-strength version to help.
Psoriasis
The National Psoriasis Foundation defines psoriasis as a "chronic autoimmune disease that appears on the skin." In an individual with psoriasis, the immune system sends out faulty signals. These signals speed up the production of skin cells. There are five types of psoriasis that exhibit different symptoms.
Types
There are five types of psoriasis: plaque, guttate, inverse, pustular and erythrodermic. Plaque psoriasis is considered to be the most common form of psoriasis. This particular type of psoriasis results in raised, red patches or lesions that are covered by a buildup of dead skin cells called scale. Psoriasis can occur on any body part and is often associated with other diseases.
Psoriasis Treatment
According to the Mayo Clinic, treatment of psoriasis has two main goals. Treatment aims to interrupt the cycle that produces the skin cells in order to minimize production and also attempts to remove existing scale and smooth the skin. There are three main types of psoriasis treatments: topical ointments, phototherapy and oral or injected medications. Creams and ointments are all that is needed in many cases of mild to moderate psoriasis. Topicals are often combined with medications in more severe psoriasis cases. Phototherapy utilizes natural or artificial ultraviolet light to target psoriasis. Phototherapy can be as simple as making a conscious effort to get more sun exposure, or can be more involved and consist of combined light therapy that is generally performed in an office by a dermatologist. Individuals that do not respond to other forms of treatment or have severe cases of psoriasis are often prescribed oral or injected medications. Some of the medications have severe side effects and may only be prescribed for short periods.
