Psoriasis Hair Loss

psoriasis hair loss can be a very unpleasant experience and is usually a result of ignoring psoriasis on the scalp. It’s not catching so you won’t infect anyone who touches your head. It can be a side effect of medication or even stress, so it’s vital you get treatment as soon as possible.

Psoriasis on the scalp can look like dandruff, as flakes of skin can fall on to your clothing. The scabs formed by psoriasis are a result of the production of excess skin. These scabs and plaque can block the hair follicles and stop new hair growth. This usually occurs in patches and doesn’t affect the whole head. The skin will feel itchy, and a burning sensation may be felt as well.

Scalp psoriasis can extend beyond the hairline, and cause feelings of embarassment as flaky, scaly skin can be seen on the forehead

Psoriasis hair loss is usually treated with special shampoos that dry out the affected area.

These shampoos can be got from your doctor on prescription and contain coal tar or salicylic acid. It’s important to use the shampoo regularly in order to stop any more psoriasis hair loss. You normally need to leave the shampoo on the hair for about 10 minutes to give it time to work.

Make sure that you condition the hair after shampooing it, as coal tar can make the scalp very dry. The hair loss itself is usually a result of constantly scratching the scalp which can damage the hair follicles. Fortunately this condition isn’t permanent and your hair will grow back again.

Anyone suffering from psoriasis hair loss should consider using a mild shampoo with natural ingredients once the psoriasis has cleared up. Many hair products contain some very harsh chemicals that may irritate the scalp causing red itchy patches if you have a sensitive skin.

If you suffer from psoriasis hair loss take a look at your diet. Make sure that you eat plenty of fruit and vegetables as a lack of essential vitamins and minerals may cause skin problems. Drink at least a litre of water a day to eliminate toxins which can build up in the body.

Coconut oil, jojoba and aloe vera are also very gentle on the scalp and may help to dry out the scaly, red itchy areas on the skin.  Gently massaging the scalp for several minutes each day may help to stimulate the hair follicles and encourage new growth.

Stress may have caused your psoriasis to flair up, and this could have also played a part in your hair loss. Long term stres can affect your body and result in a variety of health problems including psoriasis, insomnia, migraines, and high blood pressure.

See your doctor is you are very stressed as he may be able to prescribe medication to help you through a particulary difficult time.

If you suffer from psoriasis hair loss don’t panic. Providing you treat it in it’s early stages you will soon get your full head of hair back again.

For more information check out this site scalp psoriasis