Understanding scalp psoriasis and its treatment methods

Scalp psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that makes the skin cells grow rapidly. This rapid growth causes inflammation, itching, irritation, and red and scaly patches on the scalp. In some cases, scalp psoriasis also spreads to the forehead, lower back, elbows, nape, and internal areas of the ears. It can also lead to hair loss. Initially, many people get confused, as it appears similar to dandruff-like scaling, and hence, delay the treatment. Gradually, this condition can cover large areas of the body with rash. This article helps you understand scalp psoriasis in a better way.

Symptoms to look out for
Scalp psoriasis symptoms can vary from person to person. There may be a possibility that some people might have entirely different symptoms than the usual ones. However, common symptoms of scalp psoriasis are as follows:

Red inflamed patches
Thick white or silver scales
Dry and cracked skin
Itching and burning sensations
Soreness around patches
Hair loss
Bleeding in patches

Similar to other types of psoriasis, scalp psoriasis also develops in cycles. In the initial stages, it may flare up, and this can go on for weeks or months. The symptoms may then subside for some time and disappear, and they could recur after some time due to certain triggers. So, let’s talk about the causes of scalp psoriasis.

Causes
Despite a number of studies, scientists have not yet been able to figure out the exact causes of scalp psoriasis. Since it is an autoimmune disorder, it is believed that a dysfunctional immune system is the main cause. Research has shown that people suffering from this autoimmune disorder may produce more T cells and neutrophils. A large number of T cells in the body can mistakenly attack the healthy cells, producing more skin cells and white blood cells, and thus causing psoriasis. Here are some of the causes:

Family history: If an individual’s parents are suffering from scalp psoriasis, that person faces a higher risk of getting this disorder. In addition, if both the parents suffer from it, it increases the risk further.
Obesity: Scalp psoriasis is more commonly found in people who are overweight or obese. Such people have more skin creases and folds, where psoriasis rashes can erupt.
Smoking: The habit of smoking increases the risk of getting scalp psoriasis. Smoking is also known to worsen the symptoms of scalp psoriasis.
Stress: As stress impacts the immune system, high stress levels contribute to a higher risk of developing scalp psoriasis.
Infections: Many viral and bacterial infections have been found to be the cause of psoriasis. A weak immune system or recurring infections put people at a greater risk of getting scalp psoriasis too, such as in young children or HIV patients.
Vitamin-D deficiency: Experts have linked vitamin D deficiency to scalp psoriasis. Vitamin D plays an important role in the growth of healthy skin cells, and a deficiency weakens the body’s ability to make healthy skin.
Alcohol addiction: Alcohol addiction can make a person prone to developing scalp psoriasis, as alcohol contributes to immune problems, such as immunosuppression, making the body unable or less able to fight infections. Alcohol consumption also produces more cytokines and cell cycle activators, causing rapid skin cell generation.
Medications: Many dermatologists blame medications such as beta-blockers, antimalarial medicines, lithium, and iodides for scalp psoriasis.

Treatments
As there is no cure for scalp psoriasis, treatments can only reduce symptoms or prevent recurrence of the disorder. Treatment for scalp psoriasis varies from person to person, depending on the symptoms and causes. To know the causes, besides tests, one has to track the triggering factor and avoid it as much as possible. Moreover, the doctor will prescribe some treatments that will help provide relief. They are:

Anti-itch remedies: Anti-itch shampoos that contain menthol or salicylic acid, steroid creams, or ice packs are prescribed to numb the skin and prevent itching. These shampoos provide a cooling effect when the patient has burns and soreness.
Salicylic acid: Salicylic acid helps in softening the lesions and peels away dead skin. Doctors recommend salicylic-based shampoos or lotions to be applied on lesions.
Coal tar: Coal tar has been used in the treatment of scalp psoriasis for many years, and it can be found in many creams, oils, and lotions. Products containing coal tar help manage scaling and thickening of the scalp skin, as they slow down the skin cell growth. Coal tar also eases itching and prevents lesions and bleeding.
Topical steroids: Depending on the severity and symptoms of scalp psoriasis, topical steroids are also recommended. These help in reducing the inflammation, itching, and soreness. Some topical steroids issued by dermatologists are as follows:
- Anthralin – It is also known as dithranol and helps in slowing down the growth of skin cells.
- Dovonex – It is also known as calcipotriol or calcipotriene, and is a synthetic derivative of vitamin D. It helps in reducing cell growth. Dovonex has been used for scalp psoriasis treatment for many years.
- Taclonex – Taclonex combines steroids and calcipotriene. It helps in slowing down the cell growth, and reducing inflammation and itching. It helps flatten lesions too.
- Tazorac – It is also known as tazarotene, which is a derivative of vitamin A, and helps slow down the skin cell growth.
Light therapy: It is also known as phototherapy. This therapy uses ultraviolet light, under expert administration, to soothe scalp psoriasis symptoms. This treatment is difficult to use for patients who have thick hair on their skin.
Systemic treatments: In some cases, topical treatments don’t help or improve the symptoms, and so, systemic treatments are used. Systemic treatments are either given orally, as an injection, or through IV transfusion. Some of them are:
- Methotrexate – Methotrexate is commonly used to treat autoimmune diseases. It is beneficial in treating scalp psoriasis as well.
- Oral retinoids – It is a synthetic form of vitamin A and slows down the cell growth, helping to soothe symptoms of scalp psoriasis. Soriatane and acitretin are oral retinoids used for treating scalp psoriasis.
- Cyclosporine – This is an immunosuppressant medication, which helps to slow down cell growth.
- Biologics – This type of medication is given via an injection or IV infusion. It is considered quite a powerful immunosuppressant, and is used to treat many other autoimmune disorders. These medicines help by calming the inflammation and reducing rapid cell growth.

Natural remedies
Besides shampoos, lotions, creams, and medications, natural remedies can also help by easing symptoms in those suffering from mild or moderate scalp psoriasis. If one suffers from severe symptoms, along with these natural remedies, it is advisable to start medication too. Some natural remedies used to treat scalp psoriasis are:

Aloe vera: One must already be aware of aloe vera’s benefits and numerous skin-healing properties. Now, some creams available over-the-counter contain 0.5 percent aloe vera, which can be helpful in treating itching, flaking, and redness. The natural extracts can also be applied directly on the scalp for soothing effects. Aloe vera keeps the skin moist and helps in preventing the onset of infections.
Apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar soothes an itchy scalp, which is a symptom of scalp psoriasis. Remember not to apply it directly, and use only the diluted version. Keep it on for some time and then rinse. Also, avoid applying it if there are any cracks on the skin, as it may irritate the skin to a large extent.
Baking soda: Baking soda can be a quick solution to treat an itchy and inflamed scalp. Mix baking soda with water, and apply the solution using a cotton pad or soft washcloth on the affected areas.
Capsaicin: Chili peppers contain a compound called capsaicin. Studies have shown that capsaicin helps reduce pain, flaking, and inflammation caused by scalp psoriasis. However, be cautious while and after using products with capsaicin, as they may sting.
Coconut and avocado oil: Coconut and avocado oil can boost skin health quickly. You can massage your scalp using these oils. Leave it on overnight or for about an hour and then wash off. These oils will reduce flakiness and soothe your itchy scalp.
Garlic: Due to the anti-inflammatory properties and antioxidants, garlic helps prevent skin infections. You can mix pureed garlic with aloe vera gel and apply it on the affected area. Leave it on for 20 to 30 minutes and rinse.
Oatmeal bath: Oats are considered to be highly effective to prevent itching, inflammation, and flaking. One can add a cup of unflavored oats to a warm bath and soak the affected areas in this water.
Sea salt: Rinsing your scalp with sea salt can relieve scalp psoriasis symptoms. You can apply some light oil or lotion after this process.
Tea tree oil: Tea tree oil has anti-inflammatory properties and is helpful in treating scalp psoriasis symptoms. It helps reduce redness and inflammation. Dilute a few drops in water and rinse the scalp with this solution.
Vitamin D: Vitamin D helps relieve scalp psoriasis symptoms. Bask in the sun when it is not too harsh and use sunscreen before going out.

Foods to manage scalp psoriasis
Apart from taking prescribed medications and trying natural remedies, one has to be careful about what to eat and what to avoid. Here’s a list of foods to be consumed that will help with the symptoms of scalp psoriasis.

Fish and seafood: Fish such as salmon, mackerel, albacore tuna, sardines, rainbow trout, and herring are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids. It is believed that fish oils reduce inflammation and help in the normal functioning of the immune system, which is found to be overactive in patients with scalp psoriasis. Doctors recommend including seafood in one’s diet and they can be consumed twice a week. Omega-3 fatty acids are also found in walnuts and flaxseeds. If one is not fond of eating fish or is vegan, they can ask their doctor for Omega-3 fatty acid supplements as well.
Turmeric: Turmeric is a spice known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, and it relieves scalp psoriasis symptoms. One can include this herb while preparing soups and curries or opt for turmeric supplements. Doctors recommend an intake of 1.5 to 3 grams daily.
Fruits and vegetables: Fruits and vegetables are loaded with micronutrients that help in making your body strong enough to fight infections. Fruits rich in vitamin C, such as cherries, oranges, guavas, blackcurrant, kiwis, litchis, figs, blueberries, mangoes, papayas, and strawberries, promote a healthy immune system. Moreover, vegetables such as carrots, squash, sweet potatoes, spinach, kale, and broccoli have anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe scalp psoriasis symptoms.
Grains: Whole wheat, brown rice, barley, finger millet, and oats should be a part of the diet if one is suffering from scalp psoriasis. They are high in fiber and have antioxidant properties that fight inflammation and infections.
Lean meats: If meat is a part of your diet, always choose lean meats such as white meat, chicken, and turkey or go for less fatty cuts such as flank steak or sirloin. Fatty red meats increase inflammation in the body and can trigger scalp psoriasis symptoms.
Healthy fats: To ward off scalp psoriasis symptoms, include good fats in your diet. Polyunsaturated fats are considered good and are found in nuts such as almonds, peanuts, and walnuts; vegetable oils; avocado; flaxseed; and soybean oil. These fats control your weight and keep your body healthy enough to fight infections.
Nutritional supplements: Besides eating good food, one should consider including some nutritional supplements in their diet to help them combat scalp psoriasis symptoms. As discussed before, vitamin deficiencies also cause scalp psoriasis. Therefore, one should consult their doctor as to which supplements will be right for them and how much should be the dosage. Vitamin D supplements help in calming scalp psoriasis symptoms and boost healthy skin growth. Studies have revealed that vitamin B-12 supplements are also considered beneficial for psoriasis patients. Fish oil supplements have proven to help people suffering from psoriasis. Selenium deficiencies are often found in psoriasis patients, and so, supplements can surely be helpful in reducing the symptoms.

So, watch out for symptoms of scalp psoriasis and be aware of the causes and risk factors, so that one can benefit from early diagnosis and treatment. One should always consult their doctor before changing their diet or starting a medication.