Scalp Psoriasis

Natural Remedies for Psoriasis of the Scalp

Scalp psoriasis can be frustrating and embarrassing for those who suffer from it. It's an inherited medical condition that has no cure, but there are several natural remedies for controlling your symptoms and the plaques associated with psoriasis.

Psoriasis on the scalp manifests itself with silvery colored fine powder that resembles dandruff when it flakes off of the scalp. Severe cases of psoriasis on the scalp can include unsightly thick plaques that cover small or large areas of the scalp. Sometimes the psoriasis can be found beyond the scalp in areas behind the ears, on the forehead near the hairline, or even on the back of the neck.

Symptoms of Psoriasis on the Scalp

• Reddish areas of the scalp
• White, scaly appearance resembling dandruff
• Burning or soreness in affected areas
• Itchiness
• Cracked and bleeding skin
• Dry skin in scalp area
• Flaking
• Hair loss for some people - temporary during a flare up

Treatment of Psoriasis

Physicians are most likely to prescribe medicated shampoos, ointments, steroids, or oral medications to control the symptoms and plaque from building up.

However, these treatments often have adverse reactions, especially in those with sensitive skin. Treating your psoriasis of the scalp naturally is a healthier and less expensive option. Psoriasis of the scalp can be treated with natural remedies using items you might find in your pantry or local health store.

Home Remedies for Scalp Psoriasis

These are some of the most common home remedies for scalp psoriasis. Because each person's body is unique, please do a skin test first before trying these on your skin.

• Olive oil - massage warmed olive oil into your scalp gently and allow it to soak in a few minutes. The plaques and flakes should loosen and come out with regular shampooing and rinsing.
• Natural or non-toxic shampoos that are free of sodium lauryl sulfate or SLS. Sometimes you can even find a good quality hypoallergenic shampoo that is SLS free.
• Neem oil - a natural oil that may help with the itching
• Lavender - naturally helps hair to grow back
• Tamanu oil - add a few drops into your shampoo or conditioner and use as usual. Or, massage a few drops into the affected areas of the scalp.
• Baking soda - reduce itching by mixing 3 gallons of water with 1 1/2 cups baking soda. Soak a washcloth and apply the mixture to your scalp.
• Soak up the sun - fifteen to thirty minutes of direct sunlight can help alleviate the appearance of psoriasis, but use moderation to avoid excessive sun exposure
• Fish oil - applying the fish oil directly to the affected areas seems to help even more than taking the fish oil orally
• Aloe Vera - apply pure aloe Vera gel to the areas most affected and allow to soften the plaques for removal

It's also a good idea to eat a healthy whole food diet whenever possible and to include exercise into your day. Brush your hair regularly so that the flakes and plaques can be loosened and removed.

The Challenge of Treating Psoriasis When You Have Sensitive Skin

One of the biggest challenges for people with sensitive skin is that many of the treatments that are intended to stop the symptoms can actually cause allergic reactions or skin inflammation!

Anything that contains mineral oil, plastic, tar, or salicylic acid can actually cause adverse allergic reactions, especially if you have sensitive skin. Choose products wisely based on reading the label.

There are some new, gentler and yet very effective methods for treating scalp psoriasis that do not contain allergy producing ingredients.

We have seen great results by combining Cleure shampoo , which is a very gentle and non-irritating hypoallergenic shampoo, with pure refined emu oil which contains some very potent, natural anti-inflammatories.

Psoriasis of the scalp can cause difficulties with friendships and relationships and deliver a huge blow to your self-esteem. But keep in mind that although there is no scalp psoriasis cure, it can be managed successfully, even to the point that no one realizes you have it at all.