Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that causes the rapid buildup of skin cells. This buildup leads to scaling on the skin’s surface, and can be found anywhere on the body, including the scalp.

What Causes Scalp Psoriasis?

The exact causes of psoriasis are still unknown, but it is believed that a combination of genetic and environmental factors play a role. Here are some of the most common root causes of scalp psoriasis:.

Stress

Stress can aggravate existing psoriasis or trigger new flare-ups. According to a study, people with psoriasis are twice as likely to experience stress as those without the condition.

Environmental Triggers

Environmental factors such as cold and dry weather, infection, and injury can trigger psoriasis flare-ups. Exposure to chemicals in hair care products can also trigger a flare-up in some people.

Genetics

Psoriasis tends to run in families, suggesting a genetic link. However, having a genetic predisposition to psoriasis does not mean that you will definitely develop the condition.

Immune System Dysfunction

Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition, which means that the immune system attacks healthy skin cells. This leads to the accelerated growth of skin cells, causing symptoms such as redness, itching, and inflammation.

Alcohol Consumption

Excessive alcohol consumption can trigger psoriasis flare-ups or make existing symptoms worse.

How to Treat Scalp Psoriasis

While there is no cure for scalp psoriasis, there are several treatment options that can help manage symptoms and reduce the frequency of flare-ups. Here are some effective treatments for scalp psoriasis:.

Topical Treatments

Topical treatments such as creams, ointments, and shampoos that contain coal tar, salicylic acid, or corticosteroids can help reduce inflammation and itching.

However, these treatments can have side effects such as skin irritation or thinning of the skin, so it’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions and use them as directed.

Light Therapy

Light therapy, also known as phototherapy, involves exposing the skin to specific wavelengths of light to reduce inflammation and slow down the growth of skin cells.

This treatment is generally used for moderate to severe cases of scalp psoriasis, and is usually done in a doctor’s office.

Oral Medications

If topical treatments and light therapy aren’t effective, oral medications such as methotrexate, cyclosporine, or acitretin may be prescribed.

However, these medications can have serious side effects, so they are generally reserved for severe cases of scalp psoriasis that do not respond to other treatments.

Lifestyle Changes

Making certain lifestyle changes can also help reduce the severity and frequency of scalp psoriasis flare-ups. These include:.

Reducing stress through meditation, yoga, or other relaxation techniques
Avoiding triggers such as cold weather, injury, or chemical hair products
Eating a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and low in processed foods and sugar
Limiting alcohol consumption or avoiding it altogether

Conclusion

Scalp psoriasis can be a frustrating and uncomfortable condition, but there are effective treatments available that can help manage symptoms and reduce the frequency of flare-ups.

By working with your doctor to find the right treatment plan and making certain lifestyle changes, you can control this condition and live a comfortable, healthy life.