Psoriasis is a common chronic skin condition that produces a buildup of skin cells. Nearly 20,000 children under the age of 10 are diagnosed with psoriasis and this is sometimes a misdiagnoses of another skin condition, according to Psoriasis.org. A permanent cure has yet to be discovered. Treatment focuses on slowing the production of skin cells, soothing discomfort, and sloughing off the lesions produced by cell buildup.
Step 1
Apply body oil to the scalp before bed to hydrate the dry scales. Cover the scalp with a plastic head wrap or shower cap. The body heat trapped by the head wrap paired with the oils will loosen and soothe the scaly skin.
Step 2
Remove the head wrap upon waking. Comb the scalp to loosen the scales.
Step 3
Massage the scalp with shampoo containing salicylic acid. Avoid rubbing the skin too much as this will cause redness and irritation. Rinse the shampoo thoroughly.
Step 4
Apply hydrating conditioner and rinse. In place of the conditioner, use a hydrating ointment if one has been prescribed by your child's physician.
Step 5
Dry the scalp well after cleansing. Avoid styling products with alcohol in them when styling your hair.
Tips and Warnings
- Controlled sun light exposure can help reduce the symptoms of psoriasis. Discuss the option of Ultraviolet light therapy with your child's physician. According Psoriasis.org, prescription strength medications are not typically prescribed for children.
- Sun exposure that results in a sunburn can worsen the psoriasis outbreak.
Things You'll Need
- Body oil (baby oil, essential oil, jojoba oil)
- Plastic head wrap or shower cap
- Comb
- Shampoo containing salicylic acid
- Hydrating conditioner or prescription ointment
