Scalp psoriasis is a common skin disorder that makes raised, reddish, often scaly patches. It can pop up as a single patch or several, and can even affect your entire scalp. It can also spread to your forehead, the back of your neck, or behind your ears.
You can’t catch scalp psoriasis from another person. As with other types, we don’t know what causes it. Doctors believe it comes from something wrong with your immune system that causes skin cells to grow too quickly and build up into patches. You may be more likely to get scalp psoriasis if it runs in your family.
scalp psoriasisAbout half of the estimated 7.5 million Americans with psoriasis - which can affect any skin surface - have it on their scalp. Sometimes the scalp is the only place they have it, but that’s uncommon.
Scalp psoriasis can be mild and almost unnoticeable. But it can also be severe, last a long time, and cause thick, crusted sores. Intense itching can affect your sleep and everyday life, and scratching a lot can lead to skin infections and hair loss.
The first line of defense is treatment you use directly on your skin: medicated shampoos, creams, gels, oils, ointments, and soaps. You can get some of these products over the counter, but stronger ones require a prescription.
Over-the-counter products often contain one of two medications approved by the FDA for psoriasis:
Salicylic acid
Coal tar