Does Psoriasis of the Scalp Affect Hair Growth?

Scalp psoriasis is more than just an itchy, unpleasant skin condition. Psoriasis flare-ups on the scalp can last for months or even years, resulting in hair loss that while temporary, can last for the entire duration of the flare-up episode.

Definition

While plaque psoriasis can appear on skin on all areas of the body, when psoriasis plaques appear on the scalp, the condition is referred to as scalp psoriasis.

Causes

Hair loss related to scalp psoriasis is often caused by forceful removal of plaques, excessive scratching of plaques, or treatment with topical medications that are too harsh.

Effects

In most cases, hair will regrow after the flare-up subsides.

Treatment

Your doctor can help you choose topical or oral medications that can help control scalp psoriasis flare-ups, and therefore reduce hair loss.

Hair Loss

Taking care not to scratch or remove plaques forcefully can reduce hair loss. Washing and styling hair with products and tools that do not strip moisture from the scalp, which can aggravate psoriasis, will help with itchy, dry scalp, in turn reducing hair loss.

References

• What is Scalp Psoriasis

Resources

• Understanding Scalp Psoriasis May Head Off Hair Loss