Q: How do you get rid of psoriasis? My scalp looks awful. – Y.G.
A: According to the National Psoriasis Foundation, at least half of the people with psoriasis have it on their scalp. The Foundation states:
Scalp psoriasis can be very mild, with slight, fine scaling. It can also be very severe with thick, crusted plaques covering the entire scalp. Psoriasis can extend beyond the hairline onto the forehead, the back of the neck and around the ears.
Other skin disorders, such as seborrheic dermatitis, may look similar to psoriasis. However, scalp psoriasis appears powdery with a silvery sheen, while seborrheic dermatitis appears yellowish and greasy.
Treatment depends on how severe or mild your scalp psoriasis is. Tar products, topical treatments with salicylic acid, over-the-counter and doctor prescribed shampoos are some of the common treatments. See your dermatologist for the best course of treatment.
For moderate to severe scalp psoriasis, common topical treatments include:
