Psoriasis is a skin condition that is usually characterized by thick, red areas of skin that have silver-colored scales. It results from skin cells that generate at an abnormally fast rate. The new skin cells appear before the old skin has been shed, causing itchy, painful lesions. Psoriasis can appear on almost any part of the body, including the scalp. Topical medications and medicated shampoos may be used to control the symptoms of scalp psoriasis.
Step 1
Use medicated shampoos to control the flaky lesions that you are experiencing on your scalp. Shampoos that contain coal tar or salicylic acid are FDA-approved to treat scalp psoriasis, according to the National Psoriasis Foundation. Instructions for specific products may vary, but users are generally advised to leave the shampoo in their hair for at least five minutes before rinsing so the active ingredients have time to work on the scalp.
Step 2
Massage a topical medication through your hair and into your scalp. Medications of this kind include tazarotene, calcipotriene and anthralin. Anthralin should be rinsed from the head as directed, and usually the time frame ranges from 10 to 30 minutes, depending on the strength of the medication. The other drugs stay on your scalp overnight, and you'll wash them out the next morning. Protect your bedclothes from staining by wearing a shower cap to bed after applying the ointments.
Step 3
Use UV light to help lesions heal. Light therapy is a treatment method for several types of psoriasis, but it can be more difficult to administer to the scalp because your hair blocks the light from reaching the lesions. Combing numerous parts into your hair can help the UV rays penetrate the skin on your head. UV therapy may be performed at a doctor's office or at home with the aid of a portable UV light unit.
Step 4
Take oral medications if your doctor warrants them after you have given the topical route a try. Systemic medications are normally reserved for psoriasis that does not respond to other treatment methods. These can include methotrexate and cyclosporine.
Step 5
Continue your method of treatment for the full period recommended by your doctor.
Tips and Warnings
- Don't stop using the medications as soon as you feel better. Scalp psoriasis may be difficult to get under control in some people and can take up to two months of continuous treatment before results are seen.
- Tar products used to treat scalp psoriasis can have an unpleasant smell. The National Psoriasis Foundation suggests using a regular hair conditioning product after applying and rinsing the tar shampoo from your hair. The conditioner can help combat the odor and will soften your hair accordingly.
Things You'll Need
- Medicated shampoo
- Topical ointment
- Shower cap
