BAJAN SUN MAGAZINE
OCT 2014
SKIN GURU
SCALP PSORIASIS
By Dr. Andrew Forde
S
calp psoriasis is one of the causes of
severe dandruff. It is a common
condition, which occurs by itself or with
other forms of psoriasis. Individuals with
this condition build up surface skin cells
faster than normal and this results in
intermittent scaly itchy areas on the body.
The back of the head is the most common
site but multiple discrete areas can be
involved or the entire scalp. In severe
cases the hairline can also be involved.
Affected areas are characterised by thick
silvery or white scaling, which can bleed
when picked off. Temporary hair loss can
occur due to rubbing and scratching.
used. Scalp applications containing
corticosteroids, vitamin D analogues and
dithranol are helpful.
Other treatments include light or
phototherapy and oral treatments like
methotrexate and biologic agents. Your
Dermatologist can effectively control this
condition.
It is best to physically soften areas with
oil soaks or keratolytics (salicylic acid,
urea, phenol and lactic acid) followed by
gentle messaging, combing or brushing of
the scalp. Medicated shampoos containing
coal tar, salicylic acid, and antifungals
followed by conditioners should then be
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