If you’re experiencing scalp psoriasis, you know how frustrating it can be. The itching, flaking, and sometimes painful symptoms of this chronic skin condition can take a toll on both physical comfort and self-esteem – especially if hair loss has also become a concern.
Fortunately, with the right approach, you can manage these symptoms and improve hair health. In this blog, we’ll cover:
- Why scalp psoriasis causes hair loss
- Natural Ways of Treating Psoriasis
- Tips to prevent further hair damage and encourage regrowth
Read on to discover how to care for your scalp, reduce irritation, and promote hair regrowth.
Understanding Scalp Psoriasis and Hair Loss
Scalp psoriasis is a common form of psoriasis that affects up to 50% of people, according to the National Psoriasis Foundation. It causes red, scaly patches on the scalp that often itch intensely. This buildup of excess skin cells can form thick, crusted plaques, which may sometimes lead to temporary hair loss.
How can Scalp Psoriasis Affect Hair Growth?
Inflammation and Temporary Hair Loss
When psoriasis inflammation affects the scalp, it can disrupt hair follicles and lead to temporary hair loss. Severe scalp psoriasis or scratching can also contribute to this issue. While psoriasis itself doesn’t damage hair follicles, the accompanying scratching, skin buildup, and inflammation can interfere with healthy hair growth.
Skin Cell Buildup
The excessive production of skin cells characteristic of psoriasis can cause plaques on the scalp, leading to symptoms like itching, flaking, and irritation. This buildup adds stress to hair roots and can make hair more prone to shedding.
Stress and Self-Esteem
Psoriasis symptoms can take a toll on self-esteem, and hair loss may add to these feelings of self-consciousness. This can create a cycle where stress worsens the condition, leading to more frequent flare-ups and intensified symptoms.
Symptoms of Scalp Psoriasis
Scalp psoriasis can vary from mild to severe, affecting different parts of the scalp or covering it entirely. The most common symptom is an itchy scalp with red, inflamed patches that may feel sore. These patches are often covered with thick, silvery scales that can flake off, appearing as dandruff on clothes. The buildup of these scales can lead to discomfort, making scalp psoriasis worse over time if left untreated.
Another noticeable symptom of severe psoriasis is psoriasis hair loss. Although psoriasis itself doesn’t directly cause hair loss, excessive scratching, irritation, or the weight of thick scales on the scalp can stress hair follicles, leading to temporary hair shedding. Fortunately, this type of hair loss is usually reversible once the inflammation is managed.
Causes of Scalp Psoriasis
Scalp psoriasis is thought to be triggered by an overactive immune response, which speeds up skin cell production. When these cells accumulate too quickly on the scalp, they form the characteristic patches and scales. While the exact cause remains unknown, certain factors can make scalp psoriasis worse:
- Genetics: People with a family history of psoriasis are more likely to experience it.
- Environmental Triggers: Stress, cold weather, and certain infections can worsen symptoms.
- Lifestyle Factors: Smoking, alcohol, and diet may also contribute to flare-ups.
Scalp psoriasis can be persistent, but managing the triggers and using targeted treatments can help you treat scalp psoriasis, reduce symptoms, and prevent psoriasis hair loss.
Natural Scalp Psoriasis Treatments
Here are some tips to make the process easier on your scalp and hair:
Avoid Scratching
This is a key step in preventing hair loss. Although it may feel impossible when your scalp is itchy, scratching only worsens irritation and may lead to hair breakage. Instead, try a cold compress or soothing scalp treatment to ease itching.
Protect Your Scalp from Heat
Hot tools like hair dryers, straighteners, and curling irons can worsen symptoms, making it important to limit their use. If you do use heat, apply a protective spray to reduce hair damage and keep the scalp from drying out.
Choose a Gentle Cleanser
One of the best ways to manage scalp psoriasis and prevent flare-ups is to use a gentle, natural cleanser instead of regular shampoos, which often contain harsh detergents that can irritate the scalp. Opt for a soap like the Coconut and Sunflower Oil Bar, which cleanses the scalp effectively without stripping away natural oils. Coconut oil, known for its anti-inflammatory properties, is especially soothing for sensitive scalp skin. Plus, this soap is versatile enough to use on the whole body, even on the most delicate areas!
Keep Skin Hydrated
Applying a rich, calming balm to psoriasis patches can significantly reduce itching and keep the skin moisturized. Our Organic Manuka Honey Skin Soothing Cream is specially formulated for sensitive skin conditions like psoriasis, with only six natural ingredients to minimize irritation. When scalp psoriasis flares up, regularly moisturizing the affected area can help maintain comfort and protect the skin’s moisture barrier.
Treat Psoriasis on the Scalp Today
Though scalp psoriasis can be challenging, there are ways to find relief. Explore our tips to soothe your symptoms and begin your scalp psoriasis hair regrowth journey today.
