Scalp Psoriasis and Hair Loss
Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that can affect various parts of the body. When it affects the scalp, it is referred to as scalp psoriasis. Psoriasis of the scalp is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that is characterized by the formation of silvery scales and patches of red raised skin over the scalp. The formation of scales or patches is generally accompanied by itching, burning sensation and soreness of the scalp. Can this skin condition cause hair loss? Here's some information on the link between scalp psoriasis and hair loss.
What Causes Scalp Psoriasis?
Wondering what causes this non-contagious inflammatory skin disorder? It is believed that if this skin condition runs in the family, one might be at an increased risk of developing this scalp problem. Besides genetic predisposition, psoriasis of the scalp might occur as a result of a weakened immune system, therefore it is often referred to as an immune-mediated inflammatory disorder. It occurs when the immune system accelerates the rate of production of regeneration of the skin cells. When the skin cells mature at a faster rate, this results in the accumulation of skin cells. This rapid buildup of skin cells leads to the formation of thick crust of skin on the scalp. It is believed that stress, injuries to the scalp, infections, hormonal fluctuations or use of certain medications can trigger psoriasis of the scalp. The formation of whitish scales at the base of the hair strands is often accompanied by flaking and itching. Picking at the scabs or scratching on the scalp can cause damage to the affected skin. It could also damage the hair follicles. Damaged hair follicles might also cause hair loss. Can this inflammatory skin condition cause permanent hair loss? Let's find out.
Psoriasis of the Scalp and Hair Loss
Is hair loss due to psoriasis of the scalp reversible? Well, this condition is generally known to cause temporary hair loss, but in severe cases it might lead to permanent hair loss. It has been seen that hair will often grow back once the condition clears. Many a time, hair loss is not a direct result of this inflammatory condition. Since psoriasis causes the formation of red, itchy and inflamed scales and patches of the scalp, the affected person might scratch vigorously and might weaken or damage the hair follicles. In an attempt to remove the scaly patches, one might end up breaking the hair off. As far as the treatment of scalp psoriasis is concerned, the use of shampoos or creams with salicylic acid or coal tar as their active ingredient has been found to be quite effective in alleviating the symptoms. The treatment might also involve topical application of corticosteroids.
Drugs such as anthralin, taclonex, dovonex and tazorac might help in treating this condition. Since topical application of creams, medicated shampoos or other products is more difficult due to the presence of hair, you must take lots of care while applying the medicated products. In order to provide nourishment to your hair and facilitate faster hair growth, you could make use of hair vitamins. Daily exposure to sunlight for a brief period of time is also believed to be effective for controlling this skin condition. You can also try certain home remedies. Application of aloe vera gel, olive oil or coconut oil might also help in soothing the itchy scalp. You must gently massage the scalp with oils to keep it moisturized.
Including foods containing omega-3 essential fatty acids to your diet and drinking adequate amounts of water will also prove beneficial. Once the condition is kept under control, your hair will definitely grow back. Permanent hair loss occurs only in severe cases and that too as a result of persistent and vigorous scratching. So, those of you who are suffering from this inflammatory condition must refrain from scratching a lot on the scalp.
Though there is no permanent cure for this condition, it can be kept under control. If you are suffering from this inflammatory skin disease, consult a doctor soon. Follow a proper skin and hair care regimen. If you follow the advice of your doctor, you will be able to tackle this condition and alleviate the symptoms to a great extent.
