^

Health

A
A
A

Psoriasis on the head

 
, medical expert
Last reviewed: 04.07.2025
 
Fact-checked
х

All iLive content is medically reviewed or fact checked to ensure as much factual accuracy as possible.

We have strict sourcing guidelines and only link to reputable media sites, academic research institutions and, whenever possible, medically peer reviewed studies. Note that the numbers in parentheses ([1], [2], etc.) are clickable links to these studies.

If you feel that any of our content is inaccurate, out-of-date, or otherwise questionable, please select it and press Ctrl + Enter.

The most common type of psoriasis is psoriasis on the head - this is an extremely unpleasant pathology, to which the term "scaly lichen" is also applied. The disease has a chronic, periodically aggravating course.

trusted-source[ 1 ], [ 2 ]

Epidemiology

Psoriasis on the head occurs in 2.5% of other diseases in humans. At the same time, among the total number of patients with psoriasis, scalp disease occurs in more than half of patients, which allows us to confidently classify the disease as the most common type of psoriasis.

There is evidence that over the last decade the number of patients with scalp psoriasis has increased many times over. This is mainly due to the increase in stress among the population.

trusted-source[ 3 ], [ 4 ], [ 5 ]

Causes psoriasis on the head

What explains the appearance of psoriasis on the head? The main reason is considered to be a disorder of metabolic processes, however, scientists have not yet given a clear answer to the question of the origin of the disease. Only theories have been put forward that are an assumption:

  • the causes may be immune failures, in particular, of a genetic nature;
  • Other causes include metabolic and immune disorders caused by nervous tension, nutritional disorders, infections, climatic conditions, and alcohol abuse.

All scientists and medical specialists agree on one thing: psoriasis on the head is a polyetiological disease that cannot have one specific cause, but there are a number of factors, the confluence of which determines the development of the disease.

trusted-source[ 6 ], [ 7 ]

Risk factors

  • Metabolic disorders.
  • Endocrine dysfunction.
  • Disruptions of the immune system.
  • Chronic inflammatory processes, infections.
  • Hormonal disorders (puberty, pregnancy, menopause, long-term use of contraceptives).
  • Mechanical damage to the scalp.
  • Diseases of the digestive system.
  • Frequent and prolonged stress.
  • Exposure to cold, hypothermia of the head.
  • Chronic intoxication.
  • Taking certain medications.
  • Alcoholism, excessive consumption of alcoholic beverages.

trusted-source[ 8 ], [ 9 ], [ 10 ]

Pathogenesis

In essence, psoriasis on the scalp is the result of a specific response of the body to any irritating factors, which leads to excessive reproduction and growth of cellular structures of the superficial skin layers.

Usually, the average duration of the division (reproduction) cycle of cellular structures can be about 24-26 days. With scalp psoriasis, the process accelerates, and the cycle becomes 20 days shorter. As a result, old cells do not have time to die, tissue compaction and layering occurs, which provokes the onset of the inflammatory process. Inflamed foci look like light pink elevations with characteristic light scales of epithelial tissue on top.

As the disease progresses, the elevations merge with each other, taking on the appearance of large pinkish-red spots of varying shapes.

Epithelial scales and crusts in the hair growth zone do not affect their quality and do not lead to alopecia.

trusted-source[ 11 ], [ 12 ], [ 13 ], [ 14 ], [ 15 ]

Symptoms psoriasis on the head

The first signs of scalp psoriasis are the appearance of small pinkish nodules, oval-round in shape, with characteristic small scaly elements on their surface. The nodules expand over time, merge, turning into compacted flaky spots.

In general, psoriasis on the scalp is characterized by the following symptoms:

  • the initial stage of the disease often goes unnoticed, as it does not cause any negative sensations in the patient;
  • with the onset of the peeling stage of the superficial crust, patients note the appearance of itching and other unpleasant sensations;
  • as inflammation develops, itching intensifies, the skin becomes red and irritated;
  • if the patient scratches itchy areas on the head, then the appearance of wounds, cracks, and scratches can be visually observed;
  • over time, the clinical picture of psoriasis worsens, the spots become more extensive, the skin in the affected areas becomes rough and covered with a dense crust;
  • the dying scales periodically fall off, which creates the impression of the appearance of abundant dandruff;
  • the itching intensifies, and the “dandruff” becomes large, resembling light flakes;
  • the skin becomes sensitive and can be easily damaged even by a careless movement of a comb;
  • in the phase of increasing symptoms, the scales turn from white to grayish and gradually spread over the entire surface of the scalp;
  • If psoriasis on the scalp is not treated, over time the lesion will spread beyond the scalp.

Psoriasis on the head of a child

The course of psoriasis on the head in children is somewhat different from the same disease in adult patients. The differences may be as follows:

  • the redness of the spots on the skin is more pronounced and noticeable;
  • the affected skin becomes soft and moist (macerated);
  • The scaly layer is observed only in certain areas of the lesion and has the property of peeling off easily.

In the youngest patients, psoriatic rashes may look like small areas of diaper rash. Psoriasis on the head in children usually lasts a long time: at the same time, it is much more difficult to cure the disease than in adults.

Exacerbation of psoriasis on the scalp

Exacerbation of psoriasis is often caused by severe stress, hypothermia of the head or alcohol consumption. The disease also tends to seasonal exacerbations - this can be winter, summer or off-season.

The period of exacerbation is characterized by increased itching, noticeable redness of the spots, deterioration of the patient's general well-being. Constant itching can provoke insomnia, irritability, drowsiness.

As a rule, treatment for scalp psoriasis begins during the period of exacerbation. After the symptoms subside, they are limited to preventing possible subsequent relapses.

trusted-source[ 16 ], [ 17 ], [ 18 ]

Stages

  • Progressive stage, with the appearance of new rashes and the growth of previous ones.
  • Stationary stage, when new spots do not appear, but the old ones do not disappear.
  • Regressive stage, with a gradual subsidence of symptoms and the replacement of flaky bumps with barely noticeable depigmented spots.

trusted-source[ 19 ], [ 20 ]

Forms

There are two types of psoriasis on the scalp:

  • mild type - with single small tubercles covered with soft crusts;
  • severe type - with complete damage to the hairy area, with thick crusts of a relatively large size.

In addition, sometimes the type of disease is distinguished in relation to the seasonality of the development of exacerbations. Thus, psoriasis can be interseasonal, winter or summer.

trusted-source[ 21 ]

Complications and consequences

It is almost impossible to completely cure scalp psoriasis – this pathology is considered chronic, with periodic exacerbations. Often, patients, losing hope for a cure, fall into depression, withdraw into themselves and avoid communication with others. However, the difficulties do not end there – if you ignore the treatment of the disease, much more serious consequences may arise:

  • psoriatic joint inflammation – arthritis;
  • psoriatic lesion of the renal filtration system – glomerulonephritis;
  • psoriatic inflammation of liver tissue - specific hepatitis;
  • Post-psoriatic metabolic disorders – a failure of metabolic processes in cells and tissues.

In addition, sometimes scalp psoriasis occurs as erythroderma, with damage to the hair follicles. In the absence of proper treatment, this form of the disease can be accompanied by abundant hair loss.

trusted-source[ 22 ], [ 23 ], [ 24 ]

Diagnostics psoriasis on the head

In order to prescribe the correct treatment, the doctor must first conduct a comprehensive sequential diagnosis to confirm the presence of scalp psoriasis and determine the degree of psoriatic lesions.

Usually, diagnostics begin with examination and questioning of the patient:

  • collection of complaints;
  • examination of affected areas of the skin;
  • description of the medical history, as well as collection of information about other concomitant diseases.

The first signs that the doctor will pay special attention to:

  • the phenomenon (sign) of stearin stain is the formation of pliable light-silver scales on top of the tubercles, which are gently separated when scraped off;
  • a sign of psoriatic film is the exposure of a glossy red surface when trying to scrape off the scales;
  • the sign of pinpoint bleeding ("bloody dew") is a consequence of the first two signs listed above, when after the scales are removed and the psoriatic film appears, pinpoint bleeding appears.

The period of the regressive stage is determined by Voronov's sign - this is the appearance of a light line on the border of the psoriatic spot and healthy skin.

Tests may be ordered to clarify the diagnosis:

  • microexamination of crusts removed from psoriatic nodules;
  • skin biopsy with subsequent histology.

Instrumental diagnostics are relevant only in the development of complications in the form of psoriatic arthritis.

trusted-source[ 25 ], [ 26 ], [ 27 ], [ 28 ], [ 29 ], [ 30 ]

Differential diagnosis

Differential diagnostics can be carried out:

  • with seborrheic dermatitis;
  • with rosacea;
  • with red hair lichen;
  • with dermatomyositis, etc.

Most often, scalp psoriasis is differentiated from seborrheic dermatitis, which can sometimes create certain difficulties due to the commonality of clinical and histological manifestations. If an accurate diagnosis is impossible, doctors can make a combined diagnosis of "seborrheic psoriasis".

In addition to the above, differentiation is also carried out with such a rather rare disease as asbestos lichen, which is considered one of the forms of streptoderma. The disease is characterized by the appearance of large scales, resembling asbestos in color.

trusted-source[ 31 ]

Who to contact?

Treatment psoriasis on the head

Treatment measures are part of a comprehensive treatment plan and include such prescriptions as general medication, external use of drugs, and physiotherapy.

General drug treatment involves the use of the following drugs:

  • Enzyme agents and hepatoprotectors are prescribed for digestive disorders, and a hepatoprotector such as Likopid, among other things, helps to improve the functioning of the immune system.

Method of administration and dosage

Side effects

Special instructions

Lycopid

The tablet is dissolved under the tongue 2-3 times a day for 10 days.

A short-term increase in body temperature.

The drug should not be taken simultaneously with adsorbents, antacids and GCS.

Karsil

Take 2-4 pills three times a day for 3-4 months.

Nausea and allergies are possible.

The drug is prescribed with caution in case of hormonal imbalance associated with estrogens.

  • Antihistamines are used during exacerbation of scalp psoriasis to eliminate itching. In addition, antihistamines have a slight sedative effect, which helps to avoid insomnia and irritability.

Method of administration and dosage

Side effects

Special instructions

Fenkarol

Take after meals, 25 to 50 mg three times a day, for 2-3 weeks.

Thirst, vomiting, drowsiness, headaches. Allergy is also possible.

Fenkarol should be taken with caution in case of inflammatory diseases of the digestive system.

Telfast

The daily amount of the drug can range from 120 to 180 mg per dose.

Headaches, fatigue, apathy.

Use with caution in severe liver or kidney diseases.

  • Vitamins prescribed for the treatment of psoriasis on the head must necessarily contain cholecalciferol - D3. Such complex preparations include Calcium D3 Nycomed, Vigantol, Aquadetrim, Vitamin D3 Bon, Videhol.

During the period of remission, it is possible to take Alpha-D3 Teva, Osteotriol, Rocaltrol prophylactically, 1 piece once a day.

In addition to such specific drugs, it is permissible to take regular vitamin complexes Multitabs, Vitrum, Alphabet, etc., which also contain cholecalciferol.

Despite the fact that cholecalciferol is very necessary for humans, especially with psoriasis, but an excess of this vitamin can be harmful. The fact is that D3 is a fat-soluble vitamin that can accumulate in the body. Therefore, you should not take several vitamin preparations at the same time.

  • Immunosuppressants help to improve the functioning of the immune defense system. Such drugs include Sandimmune and Cyclosporin-A. These are quite specific drugs that have a large number of side effects, so they should only be prescribed by a doctor.

Method of administration and dosage

Side effects

Special instructions

Sandimmune

The drug is prescribed strictly individually, from 2.5 to 5 mg per kg of body weight per day. The duration of therapy is usually 6-8 weeks.

The severity of side effects depends on the dose of the drug taken. Pressure drops, hematopoiesis suppression, impaired consciousness, endocrine disorders, weight gain, edema are possible.

Sandimmun should not be used concomitantly with Tacrolimus and Rosuvastatin.

Cyclosporine-A

The drug is used internally or as intravenous injections. Dosage is individual.

Increased blood pressure, tremors, excessive hair growth, menstrual irregularities, muscle cramps.

The drug is prescribed and used only under the supervision of a qualified medical professional.

  • Biopreparations are medications whose action is aimed at suppressing those immune factors that act against the body itself. Among the biopreparations used for scalp psoriasis, Alefacept, Infliximab and Ustekinumab are especially popular. These medications inhibit T-lymphocyte activity.
  • Enterosorbents are used in the acute stage to reduce intoxication of the body.

Method of administration and dosage

Side effects

Special instructions

Enterodesis

The drug is taken orally, after dissolving 2.5 g of powder in 50 ml of water.

Nausea, allergic reaction.

At least 1-2 hours should pass between taking Enterodesis and other medications.

Enterosgel

Take 1 hour before or 1.5 hours after meals, 1.5 spoons, with water.

Sometimes – nausea, difficulty in defecation.

The drug should not be taken simultaneously with other medications, as this may slow down their absorption.

  • Antimicrobial drugs may be prescribed if an infectious process joins the psoriatic rash on the head. In such a situation, the doctor may prescribe antibiotic therapy using penicillin drugs, macrolide antibiotics and cephalosporins. Interferon treatment is indicated for viral infections.
  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for psoriasis on the scalp will help eliminate painful sensations and also “calm” the inflammatory reaction.

Method of administration and dosage

Side effects

Special instructions

Nurofen

Take 1 tablet orally three times a day with water.

Rarely, abdominal pain, enterocolitis, headache, and shortness of breath may occur.

The course of treatment with the drug should be short, preferably no more than 10 days.

Xefocam

Take 8 to 16 mg per day, divided into 2-3 doses.

Stomach pain, dyspepsia, dizziness, fatigue, insomnia, allergic rashes.

You should not take more than one nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug at the same time.

Any medication has its positive and negative sides. Therefore, it is difficult to determine the most effective means for psoriasis on the head: usually, they are chosen by the doctor during the treatment. Moreover, one drug can often be prescribed, which is subsequently replaced by another. Thus, the medicine that is most effective for a given organism and in a given case of psoriasis is selected.

External preparations for psoriasis on the head

External treatment for scalp psoriasis includes the use of ointment-like and cream-like preparations, as well as sprays and shampoos for local action. Such preparations may contain hormonal and non-hormonal components, as well as vitamins necessary for the restoration of affected skin.

  • Ointments for scalp psoriasis may contain corticosteroids or keratolytic components, depending on the severity of the disease.

Salicylic ointment for scalp psoriasis

Directions for use

Apply 2% ointment up to 3 times a day for 1-3 weeks.

Side effects

Dry skin, development of contact dermatitis.

Special instructions

When applying, avoid contact with eyes and mouth.

Sulfur ointment for psoriasis on the scalp

Directions for use

Apply to skin up to 3 times a day.

Side effects

Allergy.

Special instructions

The drug cannot be combined with hydrogen peroxide and potassium permanganate solution.

Lorinden ointment for psoriasis

Directions for use

The ointment is applied to the affected area up to 3 times a day, but not more than 3 weeks in a row.

Side effects

Dryness and atrophy of the skin, pigmentation.

Special instructions

The drug is not suitable for long-term use.

  • Creams for scalp psoriasis are selected depending on the stage of the disease, since the basis of such preparations may differ, from vitaminized to hormonal.

Dovonex cream for scalp psoriasis

Directions for use

Apply twice a day for one and a half months.

Side effects

May cause allergies.

Special instructions

Dovonex is not used in the acute period and in pustular psoriasis.

Akrustal for psoriasis on the head

Directions for use

Apply a thin layer at night and wash off in the morning. Duration of treatment is up to 4 months.

Side effects

A herbal preparation with virtually no side effects.

Special instructions

Used in the remission stage.

External preparations, whether cream or ointment, should not be applied to healthy skin. It should also be remembered that any product can cause an allergic reaction, so before starting treatment, you need to apply a test amount of the drug to a small area of the affected skin. If the condition does not worsen within 24 hours, the drug can be used.

trusted-source[ 32 ], [ 33 ], [ 34 ]

Spray for scalp psoriasis

This form of the drug, such as a spray, is extremely simple and convenient to use. A special nozzle is used to treat the scalp, the drug is sprayed evenly and leaves virtually no traces.

The spray is used vertically, after shaking, approximately 2-3 times a day. Treatment with sprays usually continues for 1-1.5 months, until a lasting effect is achieved.

  1. "Harmony of Pure Metals" is a series of skin care products that are actively used to treat scalp psoriasis. The spray lotion reduces itching, reduces flaking, suppresses the activity of pathogenic microorganisms, and slows down the growth of crusts on psoriatic spots.
  2. Belosalik is a spray lotion based on betamethasone and salicylic acid. The product perfectly eliminates unpleasant itching sensations, reduces peeling. Thanks to Belosalik, the skin becomes cleaner and softer.
  3. Betasalin is a spray with the glucocorticosteroid betamethasone. Eliminates inflammation and redness, improves blood circulation in tissues, and promotes rapid healing of minor injuries.
  4. Spray 999 is a drug that is used outside the acute stage to prevent relapses. It can be used as a means for daily skin care.

Medicinal shampoos for scalp psoriasis

Externally, you can conduct maintenance treatment for psoriasis on the head using shampoos. Such products can be purchased at almost any pharmacy, even without a doctor's prescription.

Medicated shampoos may differ in their mechanism of action and composition.

  • Products with antifungal activity - for example, "Nizoral" is recommended to be used up to 3 times a week, each time keeping it on the scalp for at least 5 minutes. Otherwise, such shampoos are used in the same way as regular detergents. The total duration of treatment with antifungal shampoo is up to 1 month.
  • Tar-based hair wash products - "Psorilom", "Degtyarny", "Algopix", "Friderm" help eliminate itching and dry out psoriatic spots. The shampoo is kept on the head for several minutes after application. Apply in courses of 3 weeks, with a break of 1 month.
  • Special antipsoriatic shampoos – the “Skin Cap” series are used once a week. This is enough for a high-quality antifungal, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effect.

Physiotherapy treatment

In combination with the main treatment, the use of physiotherapy is welcomed. Depending on the indications, the following procedures may be prescribed:

  • PUVA therapy is a type of physiotherapy that uses photoactive substances simultaneously with long-wave ultraviolet irradiation of the skin;
  • UFO is a local dosed irradiation of the skin with ultraviolet rays;
  • hydrotherapy – water treatment that is carried out to speed up recovery and tissue restoration;
  • Erbium laser method – is a laser resurfacing procedure during which the beam removes (evaporates) the dead epithelial layer layer by layer;
  • hemosorption is a procedure for cleansing the blood of toxic substances, while simultaneously regulating homeostasis;
  • Plasmapheresis is the most modern method of blood filtration using special equipment.

As an additional treatment, it is recommended to relax at seaside resorts, visit specialized sanatoriums and hospitals, where heliotherapy, mud therapy, and healing hydrogen sulphide procedures are actively practiced.

Treatment of scalp psoriasis at home

Treatment of scalp psoriasis is usually carried out at home: inpatient treatment is indicated only in advanced complicated cases. It is important to follow all the doctor's instructions, do not forget about diet and proper scalp care:

  • periodically, courses of medicinal antipsoriatic shampoos should be used, and in between courses, mild baby detergents should be used;
  • use soft combs and brushes made from natural materials;
  • do not forget to treat your skin daily;
  • try not to damage the forming crusts;
  • During an exacerbation, you should wait with complex hair styling, curling, hair dyeing, etc. procedures;
  • If psoriasis on the scalp is severe and you have to frequently use external medications, it is recommended to cut your hair short to make it easier to care for and to minimize the risk of damaging painful areas of the skin.

To quickly alleviate the condition, you can use traditional medicine.

Folk remedies

  1. Grind 100 g of fresh celandine, separate the juice, add 10 ml of natural red wine (the wine should be dry). Treat the damaged skin with the resulting product, wait 20 minutes and rinse your head well.
  2. Grind 300 g of succession herbs, pour 100 ml of dry wine, leave for 2 days. Then squeeze out the liquid and apply as a poultice to the affected skin. The resulting medicine can also be used to lubricate crusts.
  3. Mix 50 g of Vaseline oil, 50 g of solid oil, raw egg white, 1 tbsp. of natural honey and 1 tbsp. of celandine juice. Lubricate the affected areas daily.
  4. Collect any number of thin rosehip branches and set them on fire. Cool the ash, put it in a container, mix it with an equal amount of Vaseline oil and apply it to lubricate psoriatic plaques. With daily use, improvement becomes noticeable after 6-8 days.

trusted-source[ 35 ]

Lotion for scalp psoriasis

Psoriasis lotions are becoming increasingly popular among those suffering from the disease, as such products are very easy to use, do not require rinsing and do not spoil the appearance of the hair. Lotions are usually applied daily, evenly wetting the hair and scalp.

Let's list the most common types of lotions for scalp psoriasis.

  • Sulfomic lotion.
  • Alaseptic lotion.
  • Belosalik lotion.
  • Daivonex (based on calcipotriol).
  • Diprosalic (based on betamethasone and salicylic acid).
  • Elokom (mometasone furoate).
  • Pso EASY lotion.
  • Calamine (based on zinc oxide and calamine).

Masks for scalp psoriasis

A positive effect on psoriasis on the head was noticed after using a kefir-based mask. It can be prepared as follows:

  • warm up the kefir and apply it to areas with psoriatic rashes;
  • cover your head with cellophane film and put on a cap;
  • wash off after 20 minutes using tar shampoo.

You can also prepare a mask from the following components:

  • tea tree oil (5 drops);
  • raw egg yolk;
  • a spoonful of birch tar;
  • a spoon of castor oil;
  • capsules with oil solution Aevit;
  • a spoonful of Dimexide.

Mix the ingredients and apply to problem areas of the skin in the morning, once a day.

Another mask that is best done at night:

  • wet your hair with water until it is damp;
  • apply finely grated onion to the affected areas;
  • wrap your head in cellophane film;
  • After 20 minutes, rinse with warm water without using detergent.

The mask is considered a good remedy for eliminating psoriasis on the head. But do not forget that the components used in the masks can cause an allergic reaction, thereby worsening the condition. Therefore, before using any product, you must make sure that it does not pose an allergic hazard.

Oil for scalp psoriasis

Not all essential and vegetable oils can be used for scalp psoriasis. For example, it is not recommended to use clove, nutmeg, ginger, fir, cinnamon, eucalyptus oil, as well as thyme, citronella, and rosemary oils.

Other oils are usually diluted. The exception is tea tree oil, which is used in a concentrated state.

Do not apply oil solutions to your skin immediately before going out in the sun, as this will increase your skin's sensitivity to ultraviolet rays. If you feel discomfort on your scalp after applying it, it is better to wash it off: it may not be right for you.

This is the way to select the most effective oil, because black cumin oil is suitable for some, while lemon balm or ylang-ylang oil is suitable for others.

It is not recommended to use essential oils during pregnancy, as there are no studies on the effects of such products on fetal development.

Tea tree oil for scalp psoriasis

Tea tree oil, which is used for psoriasis, is not diluted, unlike other types of essential oils. The preparation is applied a few drops every morning to the areas of the head affected by psoriasis, regardless of whether hair grows in the place where the oil is applied.

Additionally, tea tree oil can be used by adding to other oil mixtures:

  • to a mixture of borage and evening primrose oils;
  • to lavender and almond oils;
  • to the rosemary and bergamot oil blend.

A good effect is observed when using tea tree and black cumin oils simultaneously. This combination not only eliminates itching, but also promotes the resorption of formed plaques.

Herbal treatment

Herbs for scalp psoriasis are often used to prepare baths and rinses. Herbal treatment helps soften scales, moisturize dry skin, cleanse it, and relieve redness and other signs of inflammation.

  • Take 200 g of soapwort herb, bring to a boil in 1 liter of water, leave to boil on low heat for 15 minutes. Then infuse for another 1 hour, filter and use for baths.

The bath is made in the following way: the scalp is completely immersed in a warm decoction, and kept for a quarter of an hour. The procedure is carried out once every two days, for a month.

  • Take 200 g of dried yarrow, pour 1 liter of water, boil for 15-20 minutes. Let it brew for an hour. Use for rinsing your head, once every two days for 1 month.
  • Prepare a mixture of 40 g of chicory rhizome, 40 g of valerian rhizome, 20 g of oregano, 20 g of dried hawthorn berries, 20 g of hop cones, and 10 g of celandine. Pour in 1 liter of water, bring to a boil and let stand for 45 minutes, then filter and use for immersion baths (15 minutes twice a week).
  • We prepare a tincture based on Japanese pagoda tree. We take 3 tbsp. of the plant per 0.5 l of vodka, insist in the dark for 4 weeks. Then we filter, throw away the pulp, and take the medicine 5 ml three times a day. The minimum course of treatment is one month.

Celandine for scalp psoriasis

The most common way to use celandine for psoriasis on the head is to lubricate the affected areas with the plant juice. Indeed, regular application of the juice can improve the skin condition, but only if such treatment is carried out for at least 3 months.

You can also prepare a medicine from celandine, which will be used throughout the year:

  • fresh celandine herb is ground in a meat grinder, squeezed out, and the juice is poured into a separate container;
  • the juice is left to stand in a cool place for 4 days;
  • the medicine is filtered and left in an open bottle to ferment;
  • in 20 days the medicine will be ready. It is put in the refrigerator and used as needed, during periods of exacerbation: apply to the affected areas, leave for 20 minutes, then wash off with water. The procedure is repeated daily until there is a stable improvement.

Birch tar for scalp psoriasis

Birch tar can be used to treat psoriasis during the remission period of the acute phase of the disease.

For the procedure, you will need pure birch tar, which is applied to the affected areas using a cotton swab. At first, it will be enough to keep the product on the skin for 10 minutes. Then, over the course of 10 days, the duration of the procedure is increased to 35 minutes or a little more. After this, the tar is washed off with a stream of warm water, simultaneously using tar soap.

It is worth saying that positive results will become noticeable only after several such procedures, so the treatment should be long-term, until stable remission is established.

Certain disadvantages of this type of treatment are the following:

  • Birch tar has a specific unpleasant smell;
  • If tar gets on clothes, it is very difficult to wash off;
  • after using tar, the skin becomes susceptible to the effects of ultraviolet radiation;
  • Long-term use of tar can have a negative impact on kidney function and also cause allergies.

Before starting treatment, you should consult with your doctor and make sure that there will be no negative side effects in your case.

trusted-source[ 36 ], [ 37 ], [ 38 ]

Homeopathy

Homeopathic medicines for scalp psoriasis are prescribed only by a competent doctor who has experience in using such medicines.

Good reviews have been received from patients who treated psoriasis with Psorinoheel and Psoriaten ointment. Psorinoheel is taken 8-10 drops three times a day before meals for 1-1.5 months. Psoriaten ointment is used at the same time - in the morning, afternoon and at night.

In case of severe skin irritation, it is recommended to take the drug Acidum formicicum, in a dilution of 3, 6 or 12.

If there are small scales on the scalp, it is possible to take Arsenicum album. The dose of the drug dilution is determined by the doctor depending on the patient's reaction to the treatment.

If complications arise in the form of psoriatic arthritis, then the homeopath can prescribe a remedy such as Manganum, in a 30-hundredth dilution. One granule is diluted in 100 ml of water and taken 1 teaspoon in the morning, half an hour after breakfast.

Good results were noted after taking the American homeopathic drug Loma-Lux-Psoriasis. The drug is taken in an amount of ½ to 2 teaspoons in the morning on an empty stomach. Additionally, the drug Polyderm is prescribed, 3-5 granules three times a day, for six months.

Sea salt for scalp psoriasis

Sea salt for psoriasis on the scalp can be used in the form of baths or masks for the affected areas.

  • Take equal parts of white clay (sold in pharmacies) and coarse sea salt, add the infusion of succession, bringing the mass to the consistency of sour cream. Apply the mixture to the affected area of the head and cover with a cotton cloth. Leave for 2 hours and rinse under warm running water. The procedure can be repeated 2-3 times a week.
  • Take equal parts of white clay and sea salt, add apple cider vinegar so that the consistency resembles sour cream. Apply the mixture to the affected areas, leave for 2 hours and rinse with warm water.
  • Take 100 g of sea salt, dissolve it in 5 liters of warm water. Use as a bath for the scalp. The procedure lasts 20 minutes, frequency – once every three days.

In addition, it is useful to use pure sea salt internally, instead of regular salt. For this, only the food version of the product is used, without flavors and color additives.

Diet: what should you not eat if you have scalp psoriasis?

In case of psoriasis on the head, one of the main points of treatment is considered to be diet. First of all, changes in nutrition are necessary to prevent exacerbations. Food should be taken frequently, in small portions, and some products will have to be completely abandoned:

  • from alcoholic beverages;
  • from smoked foods;
  • from fried foods;
  • from hot spices;
  • from seasonings;
  • from citrus fruits and other potentially allergenic products;
  • from semi-finished products and products with a high content of artificial ingredients and substitutes;
  • from animal fats (lard, fatty meats);
  • from margarines, ice cream, coffee, chocolate.

It is advisable to make up the diet from products and dishes with sufficient fiber content - these are fruits, vegetables, greens. Fish, fermented milk products and all kinds of cereals are considered no less useful for psoriasis. Instead of coffee and cocoa, it is better to drink green tea and fresh juices.

Prevention

To avoid exacerbation of psoriasis on the head, it is necessary to pay attention to preventive measures. First of all, they consist of following the new nutritional rules that we have already mentioned. In addition, hypothermia should be avoided, and personal hygiene rules should be observed:

  • take a shower at least 2-3 times a week, using special or baby soap or shampoo;
  • When washing your hair, try not to damage the formed crust;
  • hair should be dried very carefully, without using force;
  • It is not advisable to use electrical appliances for straightening or curling hair.
  • The hair brush should be made only of natural materials. Moreover, it should be cleaned and washed regularly and daily in a disinfectant solution. It is not advisable:
  • dye your hair with chemical dyes;
  • use fixing varnishes, gels and foams;
  • dry your hair with hot air from a hair dryer.

If you follow simple preventive measures and simultaneously use all possible types of treatment, psoriasis can retreat for a long time: periods of remission will be significantly lengthened, and exacerbations will become a rarity.

trusted-source[ 39 ], [ 40 ], [ 41 ], [ 42 ]

Forecast

Psoriasis on the head is characterized by an unstable course, with alternating periods of symptomatic relief and its increase. At the same time, the prognosis, among other things, may depend on the frequency of relapses of the disease.

It is believed that the most favorable prognosis is for the usual, classical course of psoriasis, which does not have serious complications and periodically worsens in the off-season.

The unfavorable side of the disease is the social problems of patients, because the unaesthetic appearance of the head is often perceived negatively by others. At the same time, for many, the fact that psoriasis on the head is not contagious and is not transmitted to other people does not matter. As a result of constant stress, patients with psoriasis often develop depression and neuroses.

You are reporting a typo in the following text:
Simply click the "Send typo report" button to complete the report. You can also include a comment.