Scalp psoriasis is a kind of psoriasis that develops thick, scaly plaques mostly on the scalp, hairline, or neck. It causes a burning sensation and excessive itching. It can negatively affect your self-esteem. People with mild to severe psoriasis have lower self-esteem, well-being, and self-image than those who do not have it. 

Hair loss is one of the side effects of scalp psoriasis that can negatively impact a person’s self-esteem. Experts say that scalp psoriasis itself is not the only cause of hair thinning or breakage; rather, excessive rubbing and itching of the scalp also cause damage to the hair follicles. In addition, certain chemicals used in the treatment of scalp psoriasis can cause this kind of damage. However, this hair loss is temporary; once the treatment stops, your hair should grow back.

Since scalp psoriasis hair loss is predominantly caused by irritations and rubbing, the solution to prevent hair loss is a good psoriasis treatment. Because controlling scalp psoriasis leads to the development of less plaque and less itching, your hair will shed less and grow normally.

Have scalp psoriasis? Here are some suggestions for preventing hair loss.

The following tips from the experts of Best Hair Sure Clinic can help you to alleviate the discomfort and itching caused by scalp psoriasis without aggravating the condition or causing more hair loss. 

Avoid scratching or picking up scales.

Our experts at Best Hair Transplant Centre say that rubbing or scratching your scalp is the main reason for your hair to break. So avoid scratching or picking up the scales on your scalp. However, you can gently rub the area using the soft side of your fingers to relieve that itchy feeling.

Trim your fingernails.

Keeping your fingernails trimmed will prevent you from picking or scratching your scalp unintentionally. Sometimes you may not be able to resist scratching your scalp, but trimming your fingernails can cause less damage to your scalp and the roots of your hair.

Gentle hair care.

Avoid brushing or combing your hair too hard, as this will make the scales on your scalp lift forcibly, which eventually causes damage to the hair roots. Comb, wash, and dry your hair gently without applying too much pressure.

Use medicated shampoos.

Stronger medicated shampoos are suggested, and specifically for psoriasis, there are some OTC options also available. The salicylic acid in these shampoos is often a key component. These products help loosen and soften your scalp’s scales, so you don’t need to remove them forcefully. The scales on your scalp are mainly composed of dead skin cells, which salicylic acid can break down easily.

It is recommended to use a conditioner after shampooing.

Our experts suggest using a conditioner after using medicated shampoos, as they can dry out your hair. When your hair becomes dry, it becomes more brittle and prone to damage. To keep your hair healthy, be gentle and use a conditioner after washing.

Avoid using a blow dryer to dry out your hair.

Psoriasis or medicated shampoo will already dry out your scalp, so you should allow your hair to dry naturally as much as possible. During your treatment, your hair may become drier than usual, so it is best to let it air dry.

When you go outside, cover your head with a hat.

The hot sunlight can increase scalp inflammation or flare up the psoriasis condition, so it is best to cover your head with a hat or scarf when you travel outdoors.

Avoid drinking alcohol and other stressful activities.

Psoriasis can be triggered by different activities in different people, and unfortunately, these are the primary triggers that you have to avoid completely. Drinking alcohol too much and high levels of stress can flare up psoriasis, so avoid alcohol and practise some relaxation techniques for stress relief.

Treatments suggested for psoriasis include ointments, injections, and laser treatment.

Many topical medications can be prescribed by your doctor to help you decrease the number of scales on your scalp. Topical steroids are available in different forms, such as lotions, solutions, and thicker ointments. You may be able to remove some of the scales with these treatments without causing any damage to your hair.

Moderate to severe cases of psoriasis can be treated with the help of oral or injectable medications. They not only target psoriasis on your scalp but also treat psoriasis on other body parts, like your nails and joints. Many patients require aggressive treatments because of the severity of scalp psoriasis. In such severe cases of scalp psoriasis, laser treatments and steroid injections can also be used. 

If you are struggling with hair loss due to scalp psoriasis, consult our hair expert at Best Hair Sure Clinic for the best course of hair loss treatment you deserve.