Does scalp psoriasis ever go away? (...and other common questions)

Psoriasis is a skin condition that presents as patches with scales over the skin. These patches are red or pink in colour and the scales may appear white or a silvery colour.

Fact: Approximately 2 in 100 people will suffer with psoriasis and it tends to develop in adults between 20 and 30 years of age or it can reveal itself later in life.

Overall it can also present at any age depending on the individual. The skin produces new skin cells approximately every 3 to 7 days when the normal timescale for skin cell production is over 3 to 4 weeks.

Does scalp psoriasis ever go away?

Scalp psoriasis can appear to have disappeared but you may only be in remission, unfortunately there is no cure for this and you may find you have flare ups which will last a few weeks to months before calming back down.

Psoriasis vs eczema on scalp, what’s the difference?

They present very similar symptoms, but the main difference between these conditions is psoriasis tends to be less itchy than eczema therefore less scratching and possible damage of the skin barrier. You may have periods of time where your scalp feels better with both, but both can have triggers causing a flare.

What’s the difference between dandruff and scalp psoriasis?

Simple answer is dandruff is not classed as a chronic condition. Dandruff can come and go, you may change a shampoo and it irritates your scalp but stop using that shampoo and in a week or so you are back to normal. Psoriasis is far more long lasting with more serious outbreaks. Dandruff is not caused or aggravated by our immune systems, and it doesn't increase skin cell production and it's easily treatable.

Can scalp psoriasis cause hair loss?

With any scalp condition there is a risk of hair loss. You may think the actual condition causes hair breakage but actually with the acceptance of alopecia it's the picking and scratching that weakens the hair shaft and damages the follicle. Scalp psoriasis may be less itchy but the temptation to pick at the scales you can feel on your scalp is a difficult habit to stop.

What shampoo is good for scalp psoriasis?

Shampoos designed for scalp conditions are the best place to start. Always read the ingredients and use a test patch where possible. When looking for a shampoo and other hair products look for zero colourants, fragrance and SLS free such as Olsson Haircare (shameless plug) - since 2015 we've been the only haircare brand approved by Allergy UK.

Whilst no brand can make the promise of 'no irritation', we can help you to understand if our haircare is right for you before fully investing in a full 325ml bottle.

How often should you wash your hair if you have scalp psoriasis?

You can wash your hair as often as you feel you need to. Use products free from SLS, fragrance and colourants for daily to regular washing to minimise scalp irritations. Medicated shampoos are designed to be used once or twice a week for a couple of weeks at a time, so you can wash in between with a good sensitive shampoo like Olsson.

Is there a home remedy for scalp psoriasis?

Sadly many natural, home remedies do little to help psoriasis. Free from and natural is what you need to explore but “home remedies” there are very few formulas out there that can help.

Psoriasis V’s seborrheic dermatitis, what’s the difference?

Most often, the scales of psoriasis look thicker and drier than the scales of seborrheic dermatitis. Psoriasis tends to extend beyond the hairline. And psoriasis usually affects more than one area of the body. If you have scalp psoriasis, you may have mild psoriasis on your elbows, knees or lower back too.

What triggers psoriasis of the scalp?

Specialists say this condition is linked to the immune system. Your immune system starts to attack healthy skin cells causing a rapid production of new cells. Circumstances can also trigger psoriasis like high levels of stress, being physically or mentally run-down, an illness or an immediate shock to the system.

Does scratching my scalp make psoriasis worse?

Scratching does not make psoriasis worse BUT it makes the symptoms worse. You are at risk of breaking and damaging the skin, soreness, bleeding and infection. It is advised to not pick or heavily scratch away at your psoriasis.

How can you get rid of psoriasis on the scalp?

You have to find the best way to manage the condition through diet and stress management for example. There are many treatments available that can help keep the scalp calm but there is no 100% cure for psoriasis unfortunately.

How to treat scalp psoriasis?

Do some research on SLS and other chemicals alongside fragrances in hair products. SLS (Sodium lauryl sulphate) SLS can strip your scalp of natural oils and are one of the main triggers of scalp psoriasis. Parabens, colourants and fragrance can cause flare ups on a sensitive scalp so find products free from these and make small changes to your diets, sleeping habits and stress management where possible.

What should I avoid to help my scalp psoriasis?

The chemicals in shampoos and hair products can easily irritate scalp psoriasis creating further flare ups. Avoid stressful situations or manage your stress levels with meditation. Avoid a poor diet and broken sleep pattern. These are important to avoid for your immune systems. A healthy functioning immune system can have a beneficial effect on scalp psoriasis.

Disclaimer: Due to the complex nature of allergies we cannot guarantee that our products will not trigger an allergic reaction. Over 3 years we developed a formula that has been commended by leading scientists and allergy associations who have gone on to provide their badge of approval. However, if you are a sensitive soul, we would always encourage you to examine the ingredients that are carefully itemised on each product listing, review our free-from table, discover our Help & FAQ or ask our experts - but most importantly, undertake a patch test prior to use.