Scalp psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis can cause flakiness and itching on your scalp. These conditions have many symptoms in common and you can address them with similar treatments. According to MayoClinic.com, scalp psoriasis is often persistent and can be more difficult to treat. Psoriasis scales may be thicker and somewhat drier in appearance than seborrheic dermatitis scales.
Scalp Psoriasis Symptoms
You can develop a flaky, itchy scalp with a condition known as psoriasis. Psoriasis on your scalp might appear as red patches of skin that are covered by silvery scales. The silvery white scales can attach to the hair shaft and crust may form on your scalp. Patches of scaly skin might extend past your hairline and you could experience soreness in addition to itchiness.
Seborrheic Dermatitis Symptoms
According to MayoClinic.com, seborrheic dermatitis of your scalp can cause flakiness and itchiness. Seborrheic dermatitis occurs with red, greasy skin that is covered by white or yellow scales. Yellow or white scales can attach to hair shafts. Patch scaling or thick crust that accumulates on your scalp is easily removed and does not cause bleeding. Patches of seborrheic scales usually do no extend past your hairline. You also might experience sever itching.
Scalp Psoriasis Triggers
Infections such as strep throat, boils or HIV can trigger a case of scalp psoriasis. Scalp psoriasis can develop in response to certain medications such as anti-malarial drugs or beta-blockers. Overusing medications that are used to treat psoriasis, including corticosteroids, can trigger withdrawal symptoms that include severe psoriasis. Arthritis medications like indomethacin may worsen psoriasis. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, lithium aggravates psoriasis in about half of all people with this condition.
Seborrheic Dermatitis Causes
According to the National Institutes of Health, seborrheic dermatitis may be caused by the over-production of skin oil and irritation from a yeast called malessizia. This condition is often genetic. Stress, fatigue, extreme weather, oily skin, infrequent shampooing, lotions that contain alcohol, acne or obesity increases your risk for developing seborrheic dermatitis. Neurologic conditions like Parkinson's disease, head injuries and stroke are associated with seborrheic dermatitis. The human immunodeficiency virus is also associated with a higher risk of seborrheic dermatitis.
Treatments
According to MayoClinic.com, seborrheic dermatitis and psoriasis of the scalp have common treatments. You can treat these conditions with over-counter-shampoos that contain ketoconazole, tar or salicylic acid. Ointments, gel or foam preparations that contain tar products, corticosteroids or vitamin D can help improve these conditions. You can apply mineral oil or an oil-based preparation to your scalp at night to help loosen scales and reduce inflammation that occurs with these conditions. Your doctor might prescribe oral medications like methotrexate or cyclosporine, or combine stronger medications with medicated creams and ointments to treat stubborn cases of scalp psoriasis.
