Scalp psoriasis is a common condition that can cause red, scaly patches on the scalp, leading to discomfort and, in some cases, hair loss. While the condition itself doesn’t directly damage hair follicles, the scratching, inflammation, and build-up of plaques associated with psoriasis can contribute to temporary hair loss.

The good news? Hair loss caused by scalp psoriasis is usually reversible with the right treatments and care. This article will explore:

1. How scalp psoriasis leads to hair loss.
2. Tips to prevent and manage hair loss.
3. The best treatments for restoring scalp health and hair growth.

If you’re dealing with hair loss related to scalp psoriasis, this guide will provide practical solutions to help you regain confidence.

How Scalp Psoriasis Causes Hair Loss

Hair loss associated with scalp psoriasis is typically a side effect of the condition rather than a direct result. Here are the main contributors:

1. Scratching and Trauma

Persistent itching is a hallmark of scalp psoriasis, and scratching provides temporary relief. However, frequent scratching can:

• Damage hair follicles, weakening the ability to produce healthy strands.
• Cause hair strands to break or fall out prematurely.

Pro Tip: Keep nails short and use anti-itch treatments to reduce the urge to scratch.

2. Inflammation

The chronic inflammation caused by scalp psoriasis disrupts the hair growth cycle.

• Inflammatory cytokines (proteins involved in immune responses) can damage the scalp and weaken hair follicles.
• Prolonged inflammation can lead to temporary thinning or shedding.

3. Plaque Build-Up

Thick, silvery plaques on the scalp can:

• Suffocate hair follicles, limiting oxygen and nutrient delivery.
• Make it harder for new hair to grow, especially in severe cases.

4. Stress and Psoriasis Flare-Ups

Stress is both a trigger and a consequence of psoriasis.

• Emotional or physical stress can exacerbate psoriasis, leading to more severe symptoms.
• Stress-related flare-ups can contribute to temporary hair loss by disrupting the hair growth cycle.

Real-Life Insight:
"I didn’t realize how much scratching was contributing to my hair loss. Using an anti-itch spray helped reduce the damage and let my hair grow back."

Tips to Prevent Hair Loss from Scalp Psoriasis

While hair loss related to scalp psoriasis is usually temporary, taking proactive steps can help minimize shedding and support healthy regrowth. Here are practical tips to prevent hair loss and protect your scalp.

1. Practice Gentle Hair Care

Why It Helps:
Harsh hair care practices can aggravate psoriasis symptoms and damage already fragile hair.

What to Do:

• Use a wide-tooth comb to detangle hair gently.
• Avoid tight hairstyles like ponytails or buns that pull on the scalp.
• Pat hair dry with a soft towel instead of rubbing or twisting.

2. Use Psoriasis-Friendly Shampoos

Why It Helps:
Medicated shampoos reduce inflammation, exfoliate plaques, and soothe the scalp.

What to Look For:

• Coal Tar: Slows down skin cell turnover.
• Salicylic Acid: Softens and removes scales.
• Ketoconazole: Fights fungal growth and relieves itching.

Recommended Product: Neutrogena T/Gel Therapeutic Shampoo.

3. Control Scratching

Why It Helps:
Scratching damages hair follicles and exacerbates plaque build-up.

What to Do:

• Keep nails short to reduce the risk of scratching injuries.
• Apply anti-itch sprays or lotions to soothe irritation.
• Distract yourself during itching episodes by wearing gloves or using a stress ball.

4. Moisturize the Scalp

Why It Helps:
Hydration prevents dryness and flaking, reducing the need to scratch.

What to Use:

• Coconut oil or olive oil for deep hydration.
• Scalp moisturizers designed for psoriasis, such as Eucerin Advanced Repair Scalp Moisturizer.

How to Apply:

• Massage the oil or moisturizer into the scalp and leave it overnight. Wash gently in the morning.

5. Avoid Heat and Harsh Products

Why It Helps:
Excessive heat and harsh chemicals can weaken hair strands and irritate the scalp.

What to Avoid:

• Heat styling tools like flat irons or blow dryers on high settings.
• Chemical treatments like dyes or relaxers during flare-ups.

6. Manage Stress

Why It Helps:
Stress is a common trigger for psoriasis flare-ups and can contribute to hair loss.

Stress Management Tips:

• Practice mindfulness or meditation for 10 minutes daily.
• Engage in low-impact exercises like yoga or swimming.
• Create a self-care routine to reduce emotional stress.

Real-Life Insight:
"Switching to a coal tar shampoo and focusing on scalp hydration helped me control my psoriasis and reduce hair loss significantly."

Treatments for Psoriasis-Related Hair Loss

While prevention is key, effective treatments can help address hair loss and restore scalp health when psoriasis symptoms are already causing shedding or thinning. Here are some of the best options available.

1. Medicated Shampoos

Why They Work:
Medicated shampoos treat inflammation, exfoliate plaques, and soothe itching, creating an environment conducive to healthy hair growth.

Key Ingredients:

• Coal Tar: Reduces excessive skin cell turnover and scaling.
• Salicylic Acid: Softens and removes thick plaques, promoting smoother skin.
• Ketoconazole: Provides antifungal and anti-inflammatory benefits.

Recommended Products:

• Nopsor Shampoo: Combines coal tar and salicylic acid for exfoliation and soothing effects. Designed for nightly use, it’s steroid-free and safe for long-term application.
• Neutrogena T/Gel Therapeutic Shampoo: A coal tar-based option for managing scaling and redness.
• MG217 Psoriasis Medicated Shampoo: Contains coal tar to address inflammation and plaque build-up.

2. Topical Treatments

Why They Work:
Topical treatments target specific areas of the scalp, reducing inflammation and soothing irritation.

Common Options:

• Steroid Lotions or Sprays: Decrease inflammation and redness.
  • Example: Clobex Spray (Clobetasol Propionate).
• Vitamin D Analogues: Help slow skin cell production and reduce scaling.
  • Example: Calcipotriol (used in Enstilar Foam).

3. Scalp Oils

Why They Work:
Oils hydrate the scalp, soften plaques, and protect hair follicles from further damage.

Best Choices:

• Coconut Oil: Moisturizes and softens plaques for easier removal.
• Olive Oil: Promotes hydration and soothes irritated skin.
• Argan Oil: Provides lightweight hydration without clogging follicles.

How to Use:

• Warm the oil slightly before applying to the scalp.
• Massage gently, leave overnight, and rinse with a psoriasis-friendly shampoo.

4. Biologics and Systemic Treatments

Why They Work:
For severe cases of scalp psoriasis, biologics and systemic medications target the immune system to reduce inflammation and symptoms.

Examples:

• Biologics: Adalimumab (Humira), Etanercept (Enbrel).
• Systemic Medications: Methotrexate, Cyclosporine.

Caution:
These treatments require a prescription and are generally reserved for severe or unresponsive cases.

5. Phototherapy (Light Therapy)

Why It Works:
Controlled exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light helps slow skin cell production and reduce inflammation.

How It’s Done:

• Administered in a dermatologist’s office or with a home phototherapy device.

Best For:

• Persistent or widespread scalp psoriasis with associated hair loss.

6. Scalp Massages

Why They Work:
Massaging the scalp improves blood circulation, reduces stress, and supports healthy hair follicles.

How to Do It:

• Use your fingertips or a scalp massager for 5–10 minutes daily.
• Pair with a hydrating oil or leave-in treatment for added benefits.

Real-Life Insight:
"Using Nopsor Shampoo nightly has been a game-changer for managing my psoriasis and restoring my scalp health. It’s effective without being harsh."

When to See a Dermatologist

While many cases of psoriasis-related hair loss can be managed with at-home treatments like Nopsor Shampoo and lifestyle changes, there are times when professional medical advice is essential. Here’s when to consult a dermatologist:

1. Persistent Hair Loss Despite Treatment

Why It’s Important:
If your hair continues to thin or shed even after using over-the-counter options like medicated shampoos and scalp oils, a dermatologist can evaluate underlying causes and recommend advanced therapies.

What to Expect:

• Scalp examination to assess the severity of psoriasis.
• Prescription of additional treatments, such as corticosteroid sprays or biologics.

2. Signs of Infection

Why It’s Important:
Secondary infections on the scalp can worsen symptoms and delay hair regrowth.

Symptoms to Watch For:

• Pus or yellow crusting on the scalp.
• Foul odor or unusual sensitivity.
• Redness or swelling spreading beyond the scalp.

Treatment Options:

• Topical or oral antibiotics.
• Adjustments to your psoriasis treatment plan.

3. Severe Plaques Causing Discomfort

Why It’s Important:
Thick, persistent plaques that cover large areas of the scalp may require stronger treatments.

What a Dermatologist Can Do:

• Prescribe potent medications, such as clobetasol spray or systemic treatments.
• Recommend phototherapy for extensive or stubborn psoriasis.

4. Emotional Distress or Loss of Confidence

Why It’s Important:
Hair loss and visible plaques can significantly impact self-esteem and mental health. Seeking help ensures you have the tools and support to manage both physical and emotional aspects of psoriasis.

What to Do:

• Ask your dermatologist about combining treatments for both psoriasis and hair regrowth.
• Consider therapy or support groups to address emotional challenges.

Real-Life Insight:
"When I noticed my psoriasis worsening despite home care, I visited my dermatologist. They recommended stronger treatments, which cleared up my scalp and helped my hair grow back."