If you've recently found yourself dealing with an itchy, dry and flaky scalp, your first thought might be that dandruff has grown back on your head. Before you start treating your scalp, consider that there's another possibility that could be causing you to have hair problems: scalp psoriasis.
What is scalp psoriasis?
Scalp psoriasis, also known as plaque psoriasis, is a chronic inflammatory disease. Symptoms of scalp psoriasis include red, thickened patches with silvery-white scales, located at the hairline or extending to the forehead, ears and neck. They also often present with symptoms that can include severe itching and dandruff.
What causes scalp psoriasis?
If you know much about psoriasis in general - not always the scalp type - then you probably already know the answer to this question. According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), although scalp psoriasis is just a variation of psoriasis, the causes of scalp psoriasis are quite similar.
Psoriasis develops when a person's immune system receives wrong signals that cause skin cells to grow too quickly. As a result, new skin cells form in days instead of weeks, and the body cannot get rid of those excess cells. On the contrary, those skin cells accumulate on the surface of the skin, causing psoriasis patches to appear.
What does scalp psoriasis look like?
If you're wondering whether you have scalp psoriasis, it's time to listen up. According to the AAD (AD), if you notice temporary hair loss, a burning or stinging sensation, or a silvery sheen on your scalp, it's a tell-tale sign that it may be time to see a dermatologist. to diagnose whether or not you have scalp psoriasis.
Excessive itching to the point of bleeding on the scalp along with red patches, fine scales or crusted lesions is also a sign that plaque psoriasis may be present. The AAD also states that signs and symptoms may come and go. While some people may only have mild flare-ups of scalp psoriasis, others may experience frequent severe flare-ups.
It's best to see your doctor for an accurate diagnosis. Even if you know what signs of scalp psoriasis to look out for, it's best to consult your doctor for a diagnosis because this condition is often confused with dandruff.
Scalp psoriasis and dandruff: What's the difference?
Speaking of dandruff, people often confuse scalp psoriasis with it, sometimes assuming that they are actually the same thing. However, there are key differences between dandruff and scalp psoriasis.
First, Dandruff is caused by many factors, including sensitivity to hair care products, not washing your hair enough, washing your hair too often, and dry skin. Dandruff can also occur due to irritated, oily skin and other skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. Yes, scalp psoriasis can lead to dandruff, but they are still two separate skin conditions.
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Scalp psoriasis is a direct result of a compromised immune system, while dandruff can be caused by mishaps in your hair care routine and other skin conditions. In addition to the differences in causes, dandruff is also described as a phenomenon of flaking of the scalp. It usually appears as small white flakes. With plaque psoriasis, in addition to flaky scalp and uncomfortable itching, this skin condition is also accompanied by thick, silvery-white scales and severe redness.
Does scalp psoriasis cause hair loss?
No one likes the idea of hair loss, but as we mentioned earlier, scalp psoriasis and hair loss can occur at the same time, even if scalp psoriasis is not necessarily the cause of the loss. hair. According to the Psoriasis Foundation of America, this hair loss is the result of damage to the components that make up hair (including the hair shaft or hair follicles — not psoriasis itself. Damage can occurs due to excessive rubbing, scratching or brushing and chemicals). or ingredients in treatments and products.
How to control scalp psoriasis
If you have been diagnosed with scalp psoriasis, you may be wondering, so how do I treat scalp psoriasis? There are a number of different treatments that can be used to treat scalp psoriasis – including topical steroids, light therapy and laser light treatments. Which treatment you choose will depend on the severity of your scalp psoriasis, your preferred form of treatment, and its effectiveness in controlling your symptoms.
Some tips to control scalp psoriasis include not scratching, using a gentle shampoo for sensitive skin such as Nubeà Auxilia Sensitive Scalp Shampoo 200ml . However, whether mild or severe, you should not try to tackle scalp psoriasis on your own. If you have been diagnosed, your doctor can discuss treatment options with you and help you find a plan that addresses your specific needs.