Psoriasis of the scalp is a persistent skin ailment characterized by red, flaky, and itchy patches of skin on the scalp. There is currently no treatment or cure for psoriasis of the scalp. However, specially formulated shampoos may help alleviate symptoms.
While many of these items require a doctor's prescription, some can be purchased without a doctor's help (OTC). Good choices that may remove scales and lessen irritation and flaking were identified through our investigation.
Psoriasis Of The Scalp: What Is It?
Since you're reading this post, you probably already know what scalp psoriasis is, but here's a quick summary in case you don't. It's possible for psoriasis, a persistent skin disorder, to manifest itself in any body area. It can also manifest in hard-to-reach places like the nails and the scalp. Psoriasis is not limited to the skin and can manifest elsewhere:
- knees
- elbows
- back
- The area behind the ears
- neck
Like other forms of psoriasis, Scalp psoriasis manifests as thickened, flaky patches of skin called plaques. Scales are fine in mild cases but thicker and more irritating in moderate cases. Extensive, crusty plaques covered with thick scales are the hallmark of a severe case.
How We Choose The Top Shampoos For Psoriatic Scalp
When compiling this list, we focused on finding treatments that included salicylic acid and coal tar. The American Academy of Dermatology suggests these two components (AAD). The beta hydroxy acid salicylic is a popular exfoliator.
Plaque and tartar are loosened and dissolved so they may be easily scraped away. Itching, burning, and irritation are just some symptoms that could be alleviated by removing the plaques.
According to the AAD, coal tar, made from black coal, has been used to treat psoriasis for over a century. It helps pump the brakes to ensure the skin cells on your scalp aren't developing too fast and building up. It is still true that coal tar can dry and leave a stain.
Medicated Conditioning Shampoo MG217
The National Psoriasis Foundation recommends this shampoo containing 3% coal tar. It claims to fight inflammation, itching, redness and scaling. When you rinse it out, your hair will still be clean, but it will have a pleasant herbal perfume, which is unusual for coal tar shampoos.
Reviewer cites the shampoo's "effectiveness, conditioning, and better fragrance than the other tar shampoos." Remember that coal tar can leave your skin more susceptible to sunburn for up to 24 hours. Make sure you only go out in the sun with a hat or other form of protection.
Dandruff Shampoo Vanicream
This dandruff-fighting shampoo contains no harsh chemicals but does a good job cleaning your hair. It's 2-percent pyrithione zinc, which is used for its antimicrobial, antifungal, and antibacterial effects.
That means it can help eliminate the fungus, bacteria, and other germs that could be causing your scalp to itch and flake. Users report significant improvements in dandruff and the reduction of itching, irritation, redness, flaking, and scaling, all of which are signs of scalp psoriasis.
Reports say the shampoo is difficult to apply due to its thick consistency. There may be better options for fine hair since some reviewers have noted that it might leave hair looking greasy.
Shampoo Head &'' Shoulders Clinical Strength
All Head &'' Shoulders' clinical shampoos and conditioners have been dermatologist-tested to reduce dandruff and itchy scalp. Selenium sulfide, because of its antibacterial qualities, helps limit cell turnover and inhibits the growth of Malassezia yeast.
It's worth noting that the old edition of this shampoo garnered better compliments from reviewers - many wish the original version were still available. This new mix has included menthol to enhance its "intense" cooling effects further.
Extra-Strength Neutrogena T/Gel Therapeutic Shampoo
There is 1% coal tar in the Neutrogena Therapeutic T/Gel Shampoo. So that it won't irritate your scalp, it's made out of soft materials. According to Neutrogena, the shampoo gets to work immediately and keeps functioning even after you rinse it off.
Moreover, the packaging insists that this particular shampoo is gentle enough for daily usage. This shampoo is well-regarded by reviewers.
Many users have said this product has helped alleviate their dry, itchy, flaky scalps. Its main drawback is its odor, typical of coal tar shampoos. Remember that sodium Laureth sulfate, which is found in this product, is a drying ingredient. It's scented as well.
Demarest Anti-Psoriasis Shampoo and Conditioner
This shampoo and conditioner set is fragrance-free and effective against psoriasis symptoms like flaking and itching. It has a zinc complex and salicylic acid to relieve itching. For an extra dose of hydration, it includes green tea extract, Kukui nut oil, and safflower extract.
Numerous reviewers attest to the product's efficacy in reducing the symptoms of psoriasis and the absence of any detectable odor. The National Psoriasis Foundation also recommends this option.
