What’s the Best Way to Wash Your Hair if You Have Scalp Psoriasis?

From everydayhealth.com

If you have psoriasis on your scalp, it can cause redness, thick scales or patches, itching, and even pain. It can also cause temporary hair loss. It’s similar to psoriasis on other parts of the body, but hair can trap the scales, causing them to build up more. 

There are a few prescription medications that are commonly used to treat scalp psoriasis. But you can get better results from your medications if you wash your hair with psoriasis-specific shampoo. 

For moderate to serious psoriasis, psoriasis shampoos are not that effective alone, but they can help your medications work better when used in combination with them. 

“These shampoos should be thought of as a complementary therapy,” says Lawrence J. Green, MD, a clinical professor of dermatology at George Washington University School of Medicine in Washington, DC. “They’re not on your hair and scalp for long enough to be a primary treatment.” 

For some people with very mild scalp psoriasis, the shampoos may be enough to keep it under control, says Alix Charles, MD, a dermatologist in Hinsdale, Illinois.

Here’s a breakdown of the different types of shampoos, how to use them, and what else you should be doing to keep your scalp psoriasis under control.

Types of Psoriasis Shampoos

There are two main types of over-the-counter medicated shampoos for psoriasis — those with coal tar, and those with salicylic acid. Both of these ingredients are approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for psoriasis.

Coal tar shampoos can slow skin cell growth, reduce scaling, and help with redness, inflammation, and itchiness. The downside is that they’re a bit messy and can stain clothing, and they tend to have a particular smell.

Shampoos with salicylic acid are used to exfoliate skin and soften and remove the patches. “It makes it easier for any topical medication to penetrate into the scalp,” says Dr. Green. That can make medications more effective. These shampoos typically contain 3 percent salicylic acid. Some salicylic shampoos are recommended by the National Psoriasis Foundation.

Psoriasis shampoos may contain other ingredients that can soothe irritation, reduce itching, and restore moisture to your scalp.

There’s also a prescription shampoo, which contains clobetasol propionate, a type of steroid. But dermatologists try to avoid using steroids when possible, because they can’t be used for more than a few weeks. 

“I don’t use prescription shampoos because they’re not on the scalp long enough to help much, and we have better medications,” says Green.

How to Use Psoriasis Shampoo

We think of shampoo as being for the hair, but it’s important to apply psoriasis shampoo to your scalp as much as possible. Here’s how to do it:

• Apply shampoo to your scalp. Try to separate sections of the hair and apply the shampoo to the scalp.
• Gently massage. After applying the shampoo, gently massage it into your scalp. Don’t vigorously rub your scalp, as that can irritate your skin and make the psoriasis worse. 
• Wait   Leave the shampoo in for five minutes. 
• Alternate between psoriasis-specific and regular shampoo. It’s a good idea to alternate a medicated shampoo with a regular shampoo, so that you don’t dry out your hair and scalp, says Green. If you have thick scales that need to be removed, you can use the salicylic acid shampoo daily until it improves. Use the medicated shampoo at least three times a week.
• Stop when your scalp clears. When the psoriasis clears, you don’t need to use the medicated shampoo anymore. “These are only meant to be used when using medication, not as long-term maintenance therapies,” says Green.
What About Scale Softeners?

If you have very thick scales, you may need a scale softener that stays on your scalp longer. There are gels that you apply to your scalp and leave on. One study found that applying salicylic acid followed by a moisturizer reduced redness and scaling in people with psoriasis. This is used more like a medication than a shampoo, but it may not be necessary. 

“If you’re using one of the prescription medications, you don’t usually need [a scale softener], because you can get enough of the scale off with a medicated shampoo,” says Green.

Conditioning Your Hair
It’s important to use a conditioner whenever you shampoo. Psoriasis shampoos can be very drying to your hair. Using a conditioner on the hair shaft can add moisture back in. 
Some psoriasis shampoos contain ingredients that moisturize your hair, but the additional step of using a conditioner can add extra moisture. You may want to also apply a few drops of hair oil or serum to your scalp to keep it moisturized.
Common Mistakes
When you use a psoriasis shampoo, you need to have a slightly different approach than with regular shampoo. Some common mistakes people make when using psoriasis shampoo may prevent them from getting the full benefit of the shampoo — and in some cases, they can even make the psoriasis worse. Here are few mistakes dermatologists see:
1. Washing your hair not your scalp: Try not to think of shampoos as just being for your hair. It’s important for the active ingredients to have contact with your scalp. Be sure to gently massage it into your scalp.
1. Rinsing the shampoo out too quickly: Make sure the shampoo is in contact with the your scalp for at least five minutes before you rinse it out, says Dr. Charles. Contact time is important for the ingredients to work.
2. Skipping shampoos: It’s helpful to shampoo every day, as it can help clear out the debris and oils that can make psoriasis worse. Just be sure to alternate a medicated shampoo with a regular shampoo. 
3. Scratching or rubbing your scalp: Scalp psoriasis can be very itchy, and shampooing and massaging it may trigger the itchiness. Still, it’s important to avoid scratching or trying to rub away the itch. That can make psoriasis worse and may make your scalp bleed or cause hair loss. 
4. Blow-drying your hair: Scalp psoriasis can make your scalp very dry. Using a blow-dryer with hot air can dry it out even more. Instead, let your hair air-dry or use a dryer on the cool setting.
5. Picking at the scales: Shampoo and medication may help loosen scales, which is the goal. But picking at them can cause psoriasis to flare, may cause bleeding, and can even cause scarring and hair loss.

6. The Takeaway

   • Using a medicated shampoo that contains coal tar or salicylic acid can help to alleviate scaling and itching caused by psoriasis.
   • Apply the shampoo directly to your scalp, gently massage, and leave it in for at least five minutes to give the active ingredients enough time to work.
   • Moisturizing with a conditioner after shampooing can help keep your scalp hydrated and reduce dryness-associated itchiness.
   • Avoid scratching or rubbing your scalp, as it can worsen psoriasis and lead to complications like bleeding and hair loss. Instead, talk to your healthcare provider about additional treatments if symptoms persist or worsen.
7. https://www.everydayhealth.com/skin-conditions/best-way-to-wash-your-hair-with-scalp-psoriasis/

Dandruff shampoo not working? It could be scalp psoriasis! Know the clear signs

From hindustantimes.com

Flakes won’t go away? You might be dealing with scalp psoriasis instead of dandruff! Here's how to know the difference

If you experience a flaky, red and itchy scalp, it is natural to assume it is dandruff but it could actually be a sign of scalp psoriasis. Though both conditions can cause a flaky scalp, they differ in terms of their causes, symptoms and treatments. 

It is important to understand the difference to find the right approach to managing your scalp health. For those struggling with severe flaking and itching, consulting a scalp psoriasis specialist can be crucial for a proper diagnosis and effective treatment plan.

What Causes Scalp Psoriasis?

In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr BL Jangid, Dermatologist and Hair Transplant Surgeon at SkinQure Clinic in New Delhi's Saket, explained, “Scalp psoriasis is an autoimmune inflammatory disorder in which the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells, leading to rapid skin cell multiplication. This overproduction of skin cells results in itchy red patches covered with silvery-white scales. On the other hand, dandruff is typically caused by an overgrowth of yeast or a reaction to hair care products and is not driven by an immune issue.”

He elaborated, “For people dealing with scalp discomfort and severe flakiness, scalp psoriasis removal techniques are more complex than those for simple dandruff removal. Scalp psoriasis also has a strong genetic component. You are more likely to develop this skin condition if you have a family history of psoriasis. Consulting a scalp psoriasis specialist can help you explore the right treatment options.”

    Dandruff shampoo not working? It could be scalp psoriasis! Know clear signs (For representational purposes only)

How to Differentiate Between Scalp Psoriasis and Dandruff

Dr BL Jangid revealed -

• Scalp psoriasis appears as red, inflamed patches covered with thick, silvery scales, while dandruff typically appears as small, white or yellowish flakes.
• In scalp psoriasis, the skin may look thicker with a white or silver sheen, whereas dandruff flakes are finer and more powdery.
• Both conditions may cause itching, but scalp psoriasis may also lead to a burning or tingling sensation on the scalp.
• Scalp psoriasis can occasionally lead to hair thinning or temporary hair loss, which is much less common with dandruff.

Adding to the list of tips to differentiate between scalp psoriasis, Dr Shivani Yadav (MBBS, MD DVL), Dermatologist and Founder of Skin Avenue Dermatology Clinic in Gurugram, pointed out -

1. Underlying Cause

- Scalp Psoriasis: This is an autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakenly targets healthy skin cells, speeding up their growth cycle. This rapid turnover results in thick, scaly patches forming on the scalp.

- Dandruff: Dandruff is commonly linked to an overgrowth of the Malassezia fungus on the scalp. Other factors like an oily scalp, irritation, or sensitivity to hair products can also contribute.

2. Appearance

- Scalp Psoriasis: Thick, red patches of skin covered with silvery-white scales. These patches are well-defined and can extend beyond the scalp to areas like the forehead, neck, or behind the ears.

- Dandruff: Flaky, white or yellowish scales that are generally loose and easy to brush away. The flakes are typically smaller and less inflamed than those caused by psoriasis.

3. Location

- Scalp Psoriasis: It can cover the entire scalp and often extends to other parts of the body, such as the elbows, knees, or back.

- Dandruff: Limited to the scalp, mainly around the top of the head and hairline. It doesn’t usually spread beyond the scalp.

4. Itching and Irritation

- Scalp Psoriasis: The itching is often intense and can be accompanied by burning or pain, sometimes severe enough to disrupt daily life.

- Dandruff: Usually mild, with some itching, but it rarely causes significant discomfort.

5. Severity

- Scalp Psoriasis: Severity can vary from mild to extreme, with flare-ups that can worsen symptoms. In severe cases, the constant scratching and inflammation may lead to hair loss.

- Dandruff: Generally mild and considered a cosmetic issue rather than a medical concern. It rarely causes permanent damage or hair loss.

6. Triggers

- Scalp Psoriasis: Common triggers include stress, infections, medications, skin trauma, cold weather and alcohol.

- Dandruff: Often triggered by an oily scalp, poor hygiene, dry skin, stress, or overgrowth of Malassezia yeast.

Treatment Options for Scalp Psoriasis

According to Dr BL Jangid, there is no way to prevent scalp psoriasis but if you are experiencing symptoms, it is essential to meet with a board-certified dermatologist for an accurate diagnosis and scalp psoriasis treatment. Here are some common treatments he recommended -

• Topical Treatments: Medications like corticosteroid creams, medicated shampoos, and ointments are often the first line of scalp psoriasis treatment to reduce inflammation.
• Phototherapy: For cases where topical treatments aren’t enough, controlled exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light, under medical supervision, can be an effective option for slowing the rapid growth of skin cells.
• Systemic Medications: In severe cases where topical treatments and phototherapy do not provide sufficient relief, oral or injectable medications may be prescribed to regulate the immune system and manage symptoms of scalp psoriasis.
• Lifestyle Modifications: Maintaining good scalp hygiene, managing stress, avoiding harsh hair products, and following a healthy diet can significantly help in controlling scalp psoriasis symptoms.

Dandruff treatment often involves over-the-counter shampoos that help in dandruff removal. While these treatments may ease discomfort, persistent dandruff may need a specialised approach from a dermatologist.

Bringing her expertise to the same, Dr Shivani Yadav said that scalp psoriasis typically requires prescription treatments, including:

• Topical corticosteroids
• Vitamin D analogues

- Coal tar shampoos

- Biologics for severe cases

- Phototherapy (UV light therapy)

As for dandruff, Dr Shivani Yadav said, it be treated with over-the-counter (OTC) solutions, such as:

- Anti-dandruff shampoos with zinc pyrithione, ketoconazole, or selenium sulfide

- Maintaining proper scalp hygiene

- Limiting the use of hair products that may irritate the scalp

Dr Shivani Yadav said, “While scalp psoriasis and dandruff share some similarities, they are very different conditions. Receiving an accurate diagnosis from a medical professional is critical to identifying the exact cause and finding the right treatment. If left untreated, scalp psoriasis can lead to further complications, while untreated dandruff may worsen over time. Be sure to consult a scalp psoriasis specialist or dermatologist for proper dandruff treatment.”

                       Neem can be used while bathing, on a wound, for dandruff, acne, and even as a herbal tea. (Pixabay)

8. Chronicity

- Scalp Psoriasis: A lifelong condition that requires ongoing management, with alternating periods of flare-ups and remission.

- Dandruff: A recurring condition, but generally easier to manage and less persistent compared to scalp psoriasis.

Dandruff is more easily controlled with OTC treatments. Psoriasis causes an itchy skin condition, can come and go throughout your life. It’s related to an overactive immune response and isn’t contagious. If you have skin changes that aren’t going away, talk to your dermatologist for a proper diagnosis and tailored treatment plan.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.

https://www.hindustantimes.com/lifestyle/health/dandruff-shampoo-not-working-it-could-be-scalp-psoriasis-know-clear-signs-101726924989496.html

Soap for Psoriasis: All You Need to Know

From healthline.com

Psoriasis causes new skin cells to grow too fast, leaving a chronic build-up of dry, itchy, and sometimes painful skin. Prescription medication can treat the condition, but home management also makes a difference.

One aspect of managing psoriasis at home is considering which soaps and shampoos you use. Some may actually help you relieve dryness and itchiness — or at the very least help you avoid making them worse.

However, not all at-home products work in the same way. Here are some types of soap and shampoo to consider, along with expert tips about products that are good for skin with psoriasis.

Tar soap

You may want to try managing your psoriasis symptoms with tar. But there are a few things to know before you speak with your doctor or head to the pharmacy.

Wood tar soaps and coal tar soaps

There are two types of tar: one made from wood and one made from coal. The one from coal is the kind people most commonly use to help reduce psoriasis symptoms.

You can get shampoo or soap with tar already in it, or you can get a solution that you add to your soap or shampoo.

Tar also comes in different concentrations. In lower concentrations, you can get it without a doctor’s prescription. In higher concentrations, you’ll need a prescription.

Your doctor may prescribe it by itself or as part of a treatment plan with other medications or therapies.

Benefits

Tar can be effective at relieving the symptoms of itching, scaling, and plaques that psoriasis can cause. It’s a substance you can use to help reduce your symptoms long term.

Some people who use it consistently see symptoms clear away for prolonged periods of time. It can be very effective for difficult to manage psoriasis, especially on the scalp.

In lower concentrations, often when it’s an additive in soaps or shampoos, you may find that it’s cheaper to get it over the counter (OTC) than the cost of prescribed medication.

Risks

Even though products containing tar usually indicate how much tar they contain on the label, this doesn’t always accurately reflect how well the product may help reduce your symptoms.

Studies have found that some products containing only 1 percent coal tar extract are more effective than other products containing 5 percent coal tar extract. So, when you buy a random product with tar, you risk not getting the best results.

That’s why it’s a good idea to ask a doctor for specific product recommendations, even if you plan to purchase OTC.

In addition, there are some safety considerations before using tar:

• If you’re pregnant or nursing, you should avoid it.
• If you’re more sensitive to ultraviolet (UV) light, you should avoid it. Even if you’re not, you should limit your time outdoors for 24 hours after using it, as it increases your sun sensitivity.
• There’s some evidence that, in extremely high doses, tar may cause cancer. Usually, this involves people who are exposed to tar in industrial settings. There’s no evidence that OTC products with low tar concentrations are carcinogenic. But if you’re worried, a regular skin cancer check-up may help ease your mind.
• If you use tar on your scalp, it may make your hair brittle and dry.

Stop use immediately and tell your doctor if you experience:

• worsening of your psoriasis symptoms
• extreme burning
• itching
• swelling

These can be signs of allergic reaction.

Exfoliating soaps

When you exfoliate your skin, you peel away the top layer. This helps your skin heal and rejuvenate faster.

In the case of psoriasis, one common agent that can help you do this is soap or shampoo that contains salicylic acid. You can find many types OTC.

Salicylic acid is a keratolytic, which means it helps the outer layer of your skin shed. It’s a common way to help manage psoriasis symptoms, but it can come with some side effects.

Like coal tar, it can cause some skin irritation. It can also weaken your hair and lead to some hair loss. Talk with your doctor first to make sure it’s right for you.

Oatmeal soap

Colloidal oatmeal, which is just finely ground oats, is a common ingredient in many skin care products.

People use oatmeal to protect their skin and relieve symptoms of different skin conditions. Research shows that oatmeal can be effective because of its anti-inflammatory properties.

You can buy oatmeal soap or shampoo in a pharmacy, which has added oatmeal as an ingredient. You can also get colloidal oatmeal powder and add it to your bath.

This may be a good natural alternative if you cannot use other products to help manage your symptoms.

Moisturising soap

Although dry skin by itself does not cause psoriasis, experts generally agree that those who have psoriasis should steer clear of products that can dry out or irritate skin.

“Anything gentle and moisturizing is best, and it’s important to moisturize as soon as possible after bathing,” says Dr. Robin Evans, a dermatologist in Stamford, Connecticut.

The American Osteopathic College of Dermatology (AOCD) recommends the following soap brands:

• Dove
• Olay
• Basis

If you have the option, you may want to use cleansers instead. Good choices include:

• Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser
• CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser
• Aquanil Cleanser

Other gentle cleansing agents to consider include:

• sodium laureth sulfate
• sodium lauroyl glycinate
• soybean oil
• sunflower seed oil

“All of these would help cleanse psoriatic skin with little risk of over-drying,” says Dr. Daniel Friedmann, a dermatologist at Westlake Dermatology in Austin, Texas.

Soap or lotion: What’s the difference?

Soaps and lotions that help manage psoriasis symptoms may contain similar ingredients, such as colloidal oatmeal or salicylic acid. Some lotions may contain topical steroids, like hydrocortisone, which also help reduce inflammation.

But the biggest difference is that you rinse off soap after applying it. Meanwhile, a lotion is something you need to leave on your skin to be effective.

Other tips

Try to follow these tips when using soaps, shampoos, or lotions for psoriasis:

• Limit your showers to 5 minutes and baths to 15 minutes.
• Moisturise within 5 minutes of your shower or bath.
• Try to stick to products intended for psoriasis or products that do not contain ingredients that may make your symptoms worse.
• Avoid washcloths or loofahs, and dry off gently.

One thing to consider: If you want to use lotions, especially after bathing, you may want to use a cream or ointment instead.

According to the Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care, lotions may be less effective at keeping your skin moisturized than creams or ointments. In fact, ointments contain the most lipids, which help form a protective layer around your skin to retain moisture.

Ask your doctor if a lotion, cream, or ointment is right for you.

Dr. Jessica Kaffenberger, a dermatologist at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Centre, notes that unmanaged psoriasis can lead to systemic inflammation and potentially increase the risk of developing other conditions, such as:

• high blood pressure
• diabetes
• depression
• liver disease

“Scalp psoriasis may lead to persistent itching and scalp sensitivity, which may interfere with normal activities,” Friedmann adds.

So, the earlier you begin to manage symptoms consistently, the better. Speaking with your dermatologist regularly for the most up-to-date product recommendations is a good idea.

Ingredients to look for and avoid

Choosing the right soaps and shampoos may be just one part of your symptom management plan, but it can play an important role in easing your psoriasis symptoms.

Ingredients to look for

The ingredients in your psoriasis management products are going to depend on the type of psoriasis you have and your symptoms. Before you make a selection, you may want to talk with your doctor.

In addition to the ingredients we already discussed, you can also look for soaps or shampoos with the following: 

• Lactic acid, urea, and phenol. These ingredients also help remove scales on the skin.
• Anti-itch ingredients. These ingredients, like calamine, hydrocortisone, camphor, diphenhydramine hydrochloride (HCl), benzocaine, and menthol, can help with itching. However, they may dry out and irritate skin.
• Aloe vera, jojoba, zinc pyrithione, and capsaicin. These ingredients help moisturize and soothe skin. However, it’s important to test them on a small patch of skin and stop using them if you experience irritation.
• Epsom and Dead Sea salts. Add these to your bath to help remove scales and reduce itch.

When it comes to scalp psoriasis that includes dandruff, you can look for salicylic acid as well as “sulfur or zinc ingredients to help with the flaking and itching,” says Dr. Kelly M. Cordoro, a member of the Society of Paediatric Dermatology.

Anti-dandruff shampoos, like Head & Shoulders or Selsun Blue, can also work well, adds Dr. Kaffenberger.

She also recommends medicated shampoos, such as:

• ketoconazole shampoo
• ciclopirox shampoo
• steroid shampoos, like clobetasol shampoo

The National Psoriasis Foundation recommends the following shampoo brands to help ease the discomfort of psoriasis on the scalp:

• MG217 Medicated Conditioning Shampoo, Coal Tar Formula
  • Active ingredient: 3 percent coal tar
• Neutrogena T/Gel Therapeutic Shampoo, Stubborn Itch
  • Active ingredient: 0.5 percent coal tar
• Dermarest Psoriasis Medicated Shampoo + Conditioner
  • Active ingredient: 3 percent salicylic acid

More National Psoriasis Foundation Seal of Recognition products are available on psoriasis.org.

Ingredients to avoid

Many ingredients in soaps and shampoos assist with the spa-like enjoyment of cleansing the body, but there are some that might not be great for people who have psoriasis.

You may want to avoid products with fragrances or dyes, as these can irritate the skin or even cause allergic reaction.

The Annex III of the European Union Cosmetics Directive listed the 26 most common cosmetic fragrance additive allergens for your reference.

Alcohol is also an ingredient that can inflame the skin, Kaffenberger adds.

Alcohol can often be listed on a label as:

• lauryl alcohol
• myristyl alcohol
• cetearyl alcohol
• cetyl alcohol
• behenyl alcohol

You may want to avoid products that contain preservatives, like:

• parabens
• formaldehyde
• butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT)

Outlook

A key part of managing your psoriasis successfully is understanding which products work best for your symptoms. This includes the type of soap and shampoo you use, as well as the type of moisturizing lotion or ointment.

With so many prescription and OTC options available, and so many ingredients, you may find it hard to know what to choose. Organizations, like the American Academy of Dermatology or the National Psoriasis Foundation, can provide resources.

https://www.healthline.com/health/psoriasis/soaps-and-shampoo-options?slot_pos=article_1&utm_source=Sailthru%20Email&utm_medium=Email&utm_campaign=psoriasis&utm_content=2022-12-20&apid=39239719&rvid=058431b717dcfa59c0cdd27cd0a9313769e8b3dd4ad59d88efd0ded7ddb4774e 

Ditch the Flaky Shampoos: 4 Best Shampoos for Scalp Psoriasis

From healthline.com

Scalp psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that causes flaky, itchy, scaly skin on the scalp. Although there’s no cure for scalp psoriasis, specially formulated shampoos may bring some relief.

While many of these products are only available by prescription, there are also some you can buy over the counter (OTC).

We did the research to find seven great options that may help break down scales and reduce itching and flaking.

What is scalp psoriasis?

Since you’re reading this article, chances are you already know what scalp psoriasis is, but here’s a quick overview just in case.

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that can happen anywhere on the body. It sometimes crops up in areas that are hard to treat, such as the nails and scalp.

Psoriasis can also appear on other parts of the body, including:

• knees
• elbows
• back
• back of the ears
• neck

Like other types of psoriasis, scalp psoriasis causes skin to build up and form scaly patches called plaques.

Mild cases have fine scales, while moderate cases will have thicker scales and more irritation. Severe cases result in large, thick plaques with overlying thick scales.

How we chose the best shampoos for scalp psoriasis

To create this list, we looked mainly for products that contain salicylic acid and coal tar to target scalp psoriasis. These are two ingredients recommended by the American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD). 

Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid that’s often used as an exfoliant. It helps soften and break down plaques and scales for easier removal. Removing the plaques should help ease symptoms, like itching, burning, and irritation.

Coal tar is derived from black coal, and, according to the AAD, has been used to treat psoriasis for over 100 years. It helps pump the brakes to make sure the skin cells on your scalp aren’t growing too fast and building up. Still, coal tar can be drying and can stain.

We also included shampoos with other research-backed ingredients, like selenium sulfide.

Finally, we looked at reviews from customers with scalp psoriasis to determine the effectiveness of each one.

Pricing guide

• $ = under $10
• $$ = over $10

Healthline’s picks for the best scalp psoriasis shampoos

MG217 Medicated Conditioning Shampoo

• Price: $$
• Best for: all hair types

This shampoo uses 3 percent coal tar as the active ingredient. It claims to fight irritation, itchiness, redness, and scaling. It leaves behind a fresh herbal scent — a rare feature, since many coal tar shampoos have a strong smell.

One reviewer says the shampoo is “effective, conditioning, and smells better than the other tar shampoos.”

One important thing to note: Coal tar makes your skin sensitive to sunlight and may increase your chances of sunburn for up to 24 hours after use. Be sure to stay out of the sun, or wear a hat or other sun protection if you do go out.

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Vanicream Free and Clear Medicated Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

• Price: $$
• Best for: many hair types, except fine

This medicated shampoo is a gentle yet mighty cleanser used to fight dandruff without chemical irritants.

It contains 2 percent pyrithione zinc, which has antifungal, antibacterial, and antimicrobial properties. That means it can help banish fungus, bacteria, and microorganisms that may contribute to an itchy, flaky scalp.

Reviewers say the product is great for dandruff control, and it relieves itching, irritation, redness, flaking, and scaling — all of which are common symptoms of scalp psoriasis.

The shampoo is reported to be very thick, making it hard to spread. Some reviewers report that it can leave hair looking greasy, so it might not be the best choice for fine hair.

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Head & Shoulders Clinical Strength Shampoo

• Price: $
• Best for: all hair types

Head & Shoulders has a variety of dermatologist tested clinical shampoos and conditioners to help with dandruff and itchiness.

The collection includes this shampoo, which contains 1 percent selenium sulfide. Thanks to its antimicrobial properties, selenium sulfide reduces Malassezia yeast growth (one of the culprits behind dandruff) and helps slow cell turnover.

Reviews say the shampoo is “absolutely amazing” and a “great and effective product.” The only downside is the smell, which one customer likens to “lava rock.”

Note: If you have bleached, tinted, grey, or permed hair, Head & Shoulders recommends rinsing for 5 minutes after shampooing, likely because these hair types are prone to weakening.

SHOP NOW AT WALMART

Neutrogena T/Gel Therapeutic Shampoo

• Price: $$
• Best for: many hair types, except curly and dry

Neutrogena Therapeutic T/Gel Shampoo contains 0.5 percent coal tar. It’s designed to be gentle on the scalp. Neutrogena claims the shampoo starts working immediately and continues to be effective after it’s rinsed.

Reviewers rave about this shampoo. They say it’s great for targeting a dry, itchy, and flaky scalp, and it seems like a good choice for most hair types. The only reported downside is the smell, a common issue among coal tar shampoos.

Keep in mind that this product contains sodium laureth sulfate, which can be drying. It also contains fragrance.

SHOP NOW AT AMAZON

Tips for treating scalp psoriasis

In addition to finding a specially formulated shampoo, here are a few other things you can do to keep scalp psoriasis symptoms in check:

• Shampoo your hair as often as you can. This will help alleviate build-up and itchiness of the scalp. However, keep in mind that shampooing every day isn’t suitable for all hair types.
• Limit stress, alcohol, and smoking. Along with irritants in your hair products, scalp psoriasis flare-ups can also be triggered by stress, alcohol consumption, and smoking. Limiting stress and intake of these substances may help keep things under control.
• Try aloe vera. Aloe vera gel has anti-inflammatory properties and may be soothing. You can try applying it to your scalp, or look for it as an ingredient in your shampoo.
• Use baking soda. Baking soda is great for an itchy scalp. One tablespoon of baking soda mixed with a cup of water should do the trick. Apply the mixture to your scalp to relieve itching and irritation.
• Apply natural oils. These will help keep your scalp moisturized and are filled with fats to keep the scalp healthy. Coconut oil is a great oil to start with.

How to choose a shampoo for scalp psoriasis

Still unsure how to pick the right shampoo for your hair and scalp? Here’s what to consider:

• Severity of your symptoms. If you’re experiencing a mild to medium case of scalp psoriasis, start with an OTC shampoo. If you have a severe case, or if OTC products don’t seem to help, you may need to see your doctor for a prescription shampoo.
• Consider your hair type. Check the ingredients list before you make a purchase, especially if you have dry, curly, colour treated, or fine hair. Some shampoos may contain drying ingredients, like sulfates, while others may be too heavy for fine hair.
• Do your research. If you didn’t see a shampoo on this list you want to try, no worries! There are many shampoos out there that will work great for you. Just look for key ingredients, like salicylic acid or coal tar, and be sure to check reviews to see what others with scalp psoriasis have to say about it.

Safety and side effects

Keep in mind that these products won’t cure scalp psoriasis, but they may help manage flare-ups.

If your condition worsens, it’s best that you check in with your doctor. Some cases of scalp psoriasis are more severe and may require prescription shampoos.

As with any new product, be sure to do a patch test before using a scalp psoriasis shampoo over your whole head. To do a patch test, put some product on the inside of your wrist and wait 24 hours. Keep an eye out for any signs of irritation.

Coal tar might not be safe to use during pregnancy or on infants, so it’s always best to talk with your doctor first.

Using some of these shampoos alone can be drying to your hair because coal tar and salicylic acid strip away oils. Find a good conditioner and make sure that you’re keeping your hair and scalp moisturized.

Kenkoderm, Head & Shoulders, and Vanicream have conditioners that pair with their respective shampoos. As for other shampoos, you can pair them with moisturizing or intensive care conditioners.

The bottom line

There are a variety of products that can help you manage scalp psoriasis flare-ups. Any products that contain salicylic acid and coal tar are great options.

Talk with a doctor or dermatologist if your scalp psoriasis persists or worsens while using these shampoos, or if at-home treatments don’t work.

https://www.healthline.com/health/psoriasis/best-shampoo-for-scalp-psoriasis?slot_pos=article_1&utm_source=Sailthru%20Email&utm_medium=Email&utm_campaign=psoriasis&utm_content=2022-05-10&apid=39239719&rvid=058431b717dcfa59c0cdd27cd0a9313769e8b3dd4ad59d88efd0ded7ddb4774e