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A Guide to Scalp Psoriasis

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We have all had uncomfortable moments of itchiness on the scalp, which have put us in embarrassing spots. Now if it was just the post-gym heat and sweat in your case, that’s lucky. If you saw signs of dandruff, there are ways to address that with early intervention. However, if it is a lot of itchiness along with heavy consistent flaking on the skin, you may get diagnosed with a concern called Scalp Psoriasis.

Globally, scalp psoriasis is one of the leading skin ailments today. Research shows that 45% to 56% of people suffering from psoriasis have scalp psoriasis. The concern can affect the entire scalp region including the hairline, back of the neck and even forehead, and the skin surrounding the ear region. 

So what is scalp psoriasis? Is there a permanent cure for scalp psoriasis? What are the early signs of scalp psoriasis? Can we do scalp psoriasis treatment at home? You will get answers to these and many more commonly asked queries in this article.

What is scalp psoriasis and what are its symptoms?

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Scalp psoriasis is an immune-mediated disease that leads to patches that are usually red, itchy, and scaly. The patches formed on the scalp are a result of an overactive immune system that sends wrong signals and speeds up skin cell growth. A large number of skin cells then pile up on the skin’s surface instead of shedding, which leads to patches that often burn and sting.

How can we identify the early signs of scalp psoriasis?
One of the early signs of scalp psoriasis includes fine scaling that looks just like dandruff. Silvery white scales, a sudden increase in itchiness, and a dry scalp are a few of the other signs of scalp psoriasis that one must keep an eye out for.

What are the options available for scalp psoriasis treatment?
Treatments using western medicine include topical application of creams with coal tar, salicylic acid, and clobetasol propionate. Dermatologists also recommend biologic drugs and steroid treatments to control scalp psoriasis but these methods in our honest opinion, while good at arresting early signs, come with long term adverse effects. Then there is light therapy for scalp psoriasis treatment that involves exposing the scalp to ultraviolet rays periodically with a special lamp that emits UVB light.

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Chinese medicine, Aromatherapy, and Ayurveda are natural healing alternatives that have proven to be effective in treating chronic scalp psoriasis, but how rigorously a regime is followed often goes a long way in getting close to a permanent cure. 

Finally, there are easy steps of scalp psoriasis treatment that can be practiced at the comfort of your home, which will give you relief from the symptoms, not let the signs aggravate much, and help you start on your journey towards the permanent cure you’re seeking.

How to cure scalp psoriasis permanently?
There are those that believe that scalp psoriasis cannot be cured permanently. However, depending on how chronic the concern is, how early the treatment was started, and how natural or holistic the method of treatment is, we believe scalp psoriasis can be managed and its flare-ups reduced over time. 

Here, we would like to mention that psoriasis, as is many a skin ailment, is the result of several factors like:

  • Stress (the most common trigger)
  • Any infection or injury
  • Weather changes
  • Use of certain medication
  • Smoking 

So to understand how we can cure scalp psoriasis permanently or at least manage the flare-ups at home, we need to adopt a holistic approach. And go back to methods of scalp psoriasis treatment that are time tested, else we will only be treating the signs and not addressing the problem.

What is the Oleum Cottage recommended solution for scalp psoriasis? 

At Oleum Cottage, we always fall back on treatment options using plant oils for skin and hair. This is why we have created a unique formulation, our Scalp Psoriasis Oil, an oil blend drawing inspiration from oils traditionally used in chronic skin and scalp infections, like cold-pressed oils of Jojoba, Virgin Coconut, Virgin Olive, and therapeutic essential oils of Lavender, Tea tree, Rosemary, Frankincense and Geranium.

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For instance, the composition of Jojoba oil is similar to that of human sebum and it wonderfully balances natural oils and keeps the scalp healthy. Virgin coconut oil is a great healer for viral infections, the reason it is popularly known to reduce hair loss. Tea tree essential oil is a powerhouse of antimicrobial agents while virgin Olive oil, packed with omega-3 fatty acids, softens scaly patches and helps get rid of flakes of skin from scalp psoriasis.

Does scalp psoriasis cause hair loss?
We are often asked if there is any hair loss due to scalp psoriasis. While there is no fear of permanent hair loss, scratching too hard or harsh treatments can cause temporary hair loss. The stress associated with the condition may also result in hair loss. However, if you have identified the early signs and started on a treatment routine along with lifestyle improvements for managing stress, the lost hair usually grows back with time.

Does scalp psoriasis affect men and women differently?
Yes, it has been observed that scalp psoriasis is more predominant among men than women and more men are prone to get chronic psoriasis than women. Studies even show that women react better to scalp psoriasis treatment than men. Scalp psoriasis among men may even extend to their beard. In our experience as aromatherapists too, we have observed that scalp psoriasis is becoming increasingly common amongst men.

How can one begin scalp psoriasis treatment at home?
One can start a holistic ritual at home to arrest the signs and symptoms of scalp psoriasis.

Few lifestyle changes you should consider including in your daily routine:

  • Mindfulness techniques like meditation
  • Physical exercise at least for 10-20 minutes a day
  • Regular sleep and meal times
  • Wind down ritual pre-bedtime with no gadgets
  • Clean and balanced meals 
  • Time for self-care
  • Practicing patience and gratitude, as it is very easy to fall into a vicious stress cycle in such conditions

We recommend using our Scalp Psoriasis Oil 2-3 times a week, or more depending on the severity. Here is how you can use the oil:

  • Spray little oil on the affected areas 
  • Massage the oil well 
  • Cover your scalp with a warm cloth or towel for 20 minutes or more to improve absorption of essential oils
  • Avoid washing your hair too often, once or twice a week is sufficient
  • When you do wash, use a sulfate-free mild shampoo or a natural hair wash powder
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We can understand that scalp psoriasis can take an emotional toll and even dwindle your confidence. We want to assure you that while the path to curing scalp psoriasis permanently is not easy, and it sometimes tends to come back even after you thought you’ve overcome it, a holistic and consistent treatment can effectively control the flare-ups and prevent scalp psoriasis from becoming severe.

Still, have a query on how to cure scalp psoriasis? Please feel free to share with us in the comments section below and we would be happy to assist you.

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