It can be difficult at times to identify between dandruff and scalp psoriasis as the symptoms of both are similar and involve an itchy scalp and white flakes of dead skin cells. But here’s the thing about scalp psoriasis. It is a genetic and contagious skin disorder of the immune system. Severe conditions of psoriasis can even lead to psoriatic arthritis. Mostly, psoriasis occurs on the scalp, manifests thick plaques or mild scales.

Find the root cause
The psoriasis of the scalp is common and it occurs mainly when the immune system is damaged that your skin cells are affected as well. This is why psoriasis quickly develops, results in itching and uncomfortable burning sensation on the scalp. That’s when you can have severe dandruff. If not taken care on time, the psoriasis of the scalp can further go to the back of the neck, behind the ears and even to the forehead. The chronic skin condition of scalp psoriasis can worsen at times and it is best to take the treatment immediately to avoid any more complications.

Confirm the disorder
The main symptoms of scalp psoriasis can be mild to severe and these include dryness of the skin, itching, raised reddish patches, temporary hair loss, bleeding from scratching the plaques on the scalp, flaking, burning and discomfort, and silver-like scales. The symptoms often occur on both sides of the head. Also, don’t let it go without a treatment. Extreme climate and vitamin deficiency can trigger this issue. But see a doctor at the earliest.

Ways to treat it
The simple treatment that can be done for reducing the discomfort caused by raised red patches is through topical corticosteroid medications. Some of the topical medications include Vitamin D, coal tar shampoo, retinoid, and anthralin. Other products that can be used are like medicated foams, liquid gels, sprays and lotions prescribed by your skin doctor. Other treatments to cure scalp psoriasis are oral medications and photo-therapy; these can provide quick relief from the problem. It is, however, best to avoid self-medication. Consult a dermatologist and use the products as mentioned.

Seek help when it goes severe
There are certain complications that can occur due to psoriasis of the scalp and these include hair loss and bleeding. There are chances that the entire clump of hair gets removed, if the scalp gets damaged due to psoriasis. The scalp psoriasis is quite different from dandruff as it is silvery and large, and the scales must be removed carefully. The scalp must not be scratched to remove the scales. Also, a lot of people end up using hair oils. Many doctors say oil is food for the infection. You must be careful while combing your hair as it can cause a lot of pain, if pressed on the infected area. You can make use of the comb gently to remove the scales from the scalp, but make sure that you clean the comb to avoid spreading the infection to others.