How to Remove Psoriasis Scales from Scalp: Steps and Tips – Greatist

If you live with psoriasis, theres a good chance that you also experience its effects on your scalp. And that just sucks, because its itchy, scaly, and uncomfortable. Sounding familiar? Then you might be wondering how to remove psoriasis scales from your scalp without making the discomfort any worse.

Turn that frown upside down, because yes: you can absolutely do it! But its important to remove scales the right way. Otherwise, youre increasing your risk of inflammation, pain, and infection. And that is not what we have in our plans for today.

Lets take a look at how to remove psoriasis scales as safely as possible and bring the joy of less-itchy hair back into your life.

Take note: these ingredients are about to become your new squad members.

Theres actually a whole list of over-the-counter (OTC) products that docs recommend for psoriasis. But when it comes to scalp psoriasis, were mostly talking about two major players: salicylic acid and coal tar.

This stuff (which youll soon be adding into your phone as Sally with lots of heart emojis because it will be your BFF) is the OG of OTC psoriasis treatment.

A 2017 study found that salicylic acid can be super effective for softening and loosening scales, making them much easier for you to remove. But just like your BFF, you never want too much of it. Salicylic acid is strong stuff, so make sure you read the instructions and use it correctly.

This is a common ingredient in psoriasis medications, so youll find it pretty easy to buy.

And according to research from 2017, coal tar was particularly handy for treating scalp psoriasis, with symptoms usually improving after 1 month and peeps staying in remission (i.e., symptom-free) for longer than they did with other topical psoriasis treatments.

It did fall out of favor at one point, thanks to being a little bit smelly and causing side effects like staining, contact dermatitis, and stinging. But its back with a new, better-smelling formula and its milder than salicylic acid.

You can also look out for creams or shampoos containing urea. Research that assesses its benefits is slim pickings, but it commonly pops up in keratolytics (the fancy word for topical treatments that soften the skin).

The National Psoriasis Foundation also lists lactic acid as a useful ingredient for scale lifters.

Lets start by locating those pesky scales. Your removal tactics are going to be slightly different depending on where it is.

Are your scales behind your ear, on your neck, or in a place generally free of hair? Youll need a spot treatment you can put directly onto your skin.

Scales surrounded by hair mean youll need a specialized shampoo instead.

If your scales dont have pesky hair sprouting out of them or surrounding them, you can bust out the good stuff. Youll need to find a cream or topical treatment containing those good ol active ingredients. These tend to be stronger than psoriasis shampoos.

Hair getting in the way? Then the shampoos are the way forward. Yes, theyre milder and gentler (this is your scalp were talking about, after all), but theyll still do a fine job of softening those scales up.

Check out this list of shampoos recommended by the National Psoriasis Foundation. They know their stuff when it comes to scale-softening suds.

First things first: you need to apply your shampoo and let it start doing its job.

Apply it and rub it in gently (no sense in going hell for leather youll just irritate your skin). Get it under your fingertips, pretend youre in that fancy salon, and give yourself a light head massage.

Mmm.

Want to take a break, feel a little bit luxurious, and give yourself an easier time with getting rid of those scales?

You can plop a plastic cap (heck, even a plastic grocery bag will do the trick) over your soapy locks and stand under the shower for 10 minutes.

Keeping the water warm rather than hot will lock in those active ingredients.

Its worth taking your time and following these steps gently but thoroughly:

Be meticulous. Be painstaking. Comb every inch of your hair, especially around the scales. Youll thank yourself for it later.

Then, rinse out the suds.

So, this is the gentle way to get those pesky scales out of your hair and your life, just like your ex. But its also good to know what triggers your psoriasis, as you can then avoid it as best you can (also like your ex).

Everyone with psoriasis has a different trigger, and you might already know what yours is. If youre not sure, here are some likely culprits:

Nail whats triggering your psoriasis symptoms, and youll have fewer scales to worry about in the first place.

So youve tried shampooing your scales away. But does it feel like theyre not really clearing up? Its a bummer, for sure, and now youre wondering what else you can do. Anything?

Good news: there are other avenues you can explore, though youll want to discuss them with your doc first.

Scalp psoriasis can be hella uncomfortable and tough on your mental health. Luckily, if youre careful about it, you can gently remove the scales and make life a little bit easier.

Check out specialist shampoos and creams designed to make those flakes rise off your skin. Gently apply them to your head, targeting where those itchy patches are, and leave them a little time to work their magic.

Comb your hair thoroughly, and voila! Your scales may well be reduced. If its still not working, its worth having a word with your doctor. They can prescribe some stronger shampoos or creams to try out. And if you notice your scales getting any worse, stop using the treatment, and head back to the doc.

Scales be gone! Soon youll be rocking a scale-free scalp and a less itchy life.

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How to Remove Psoriasis Scales from Scalp: Steps and Tips - Greatist