In about half of all psoriasis patients, the scalp is the common site of the skin disorder. Scalp psoriasis can be mild, characterized by fine scaling on the scalp.

In moderate to severe scalp psoriasis, a large part of the scalp or the entire scalp is covered with thick plaques. Scalp psoriasis can spread beyond the hairline, around the ears and on the forehead. Scalp psoriasis cannot be cured. However, it can be managed with the right treatment option.

5 Best Treatments For Psoriasis On Scalp

Salicylic Acid

Shampoos containing salicylic acid are widely used for treating psoriasis on the scalp. It helps to soften the crusty scales, which can then be easily washed off. However, products containing salicylic acid cannot be used frequently. They might irritate the skin and loosen the hair shaft.

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Tar

Tar is an effective treatment for scalp psoriasis. Although both coal and wood tars are used for managing the skin condition, coal tar is usually more effective for treating scalp psoriasis.

Several medicated shampoos, creams, oils or gels combine tar with salicylic acid. Depending upon the severity of the scalp condition, you can use products containing 0.5 to 5 percent coal tar.

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Massage the scalp gently with the coal tar, leave it on the scalp at least for five minutes, and then rinse it off. Although you would dislike the tarry smell on your scalp, you should resist the temptation of washing your hair with a non-medicated shampoo, as it would reduce the effectiveness of the treatment.

Tea Tree Oil

The oil extracted from the leaves of tea tree, a plant native to the coastal regions of Australia, is used for treating a wide range of skin conditions, including scalp psoriasis.

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To prevent irritation and allergic reactions, tea tree oil is usually diluted with some other oil such as almond oil, vitamin E or water. Tea tree oil is especially useful for treating secondary yeast or bacterial infection on the scalp that worsens the symptoms of scalp psoriasis.

Fish Oil Supplements

Supplementation with fish oil can improve the symptoms of scalp psoriasis. Fish oil is a rich source of the omega-3 fatty acids docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). Both these omega-3 fats can suppress the activities of white blood cells called T lymphocytes.

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Abnormal activities of these immune cells trigger psoriasis. Fish oil supplements are considered safe. In some cases, it can cause mild side effects such as nausea and heartburn. However, higher doses of fish oil, more than 3 grams per day, might interact with anticoagulant medications and hypertension drugs.

Ultraviolet Light

The ultraviolet rays of the sun are the best alternative treatment for psoriasis. They suppress abnormal production of skin cells and reduce inflammation. However, hair blocks sunlight from the scalp, impairing this natural remedy for psoriasis.

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Nonetheless, you can use handheld devices known as UV combs for treating this skin disorder. Through the partings in the hair, the scalp is exposed to high-intensity ultraviolet rays emitted by the UV unit. Scalp psoriasis treatment with UV combs is most suitable for people with thin hair.