What Causes Psoriasis on Scalp?

Psoriasis is characterised by sharply defined, red patches of skin which soon become covered with thickened areas of dry, silvery scales.
The condition is not infectious and is due to an abnormally rapid cycle of skin-cell growth and shedding.

Psoriasis can affect any part of the body, but occurs mainly on the knees and elbows, on the scalp and sometimes on the back or chest. It may also affect the fingernails, which can become disfigured.

With psoriasis, the overall aim of treatment is to reduce the activity of the skin cells and relieve the associated inflammation. Although psoriasis may recur, it can be managed with ongoing treatment. Once a successful treatment has been established, it should be resumed at the first sign of recurrence.

First thing your husband should do is avoid soap, as this can exacerbate the condition. Bathing in solutions containing tar can be helpful in relieving symptoms and maintaining clearance. Also, try to avoid stress, as well as cuts, burns or infections on the affected area, as this can provoke a flare-up of the condition.

So here's a list of products to use to help manage psoriasis:

1) Pinetarsol – Pinetarsol products are soap-free and help to relieve itchy skin and reduce inflammation.
2) DermAid – DermAid creams contain hydrocortisone to help soothe inflamed and itchy skin.
3) EgoPsoryl TA – A soothing gel that provides relief for very itchy, non-inflamed skin and can also help to remove scales.
4) Egoderm – These emollient treatments are recommended for the treatment of dry, inflamed skin.
5) Sebitar – A scalp-cleansing treatment for persistent dandruff, seborrhoeic dermatitis and scalp psoriasis. Containing coal tar and pine tar to relieve itching, inflammation and help control excess flaking.
6) SebiRinse – A conditioner for use after a scalp cleansing treatment such as Sebitar.

Remember that when you're trying to avoid soap, to look at your shampoo and conditioner which usually contain soap. I also recommend using the Hairscience range of shampoos and conditioners.