What is psoriasis of the scalp and how to cope with it? Effective treatments, care tips

This disease has been known since the time of Hippocrates. It was he who described the symptoms. In particular, he indicated rashes localized in the scalp. On average, this pathology occurs in 2-7% of the total population. It can occur at any age, even in children from four months. Scalp involvement in psoriasis is observed in 50-80% of patients. 125 million people in the world suffer from this form of the disease.

The exact causes of the appearance of rash scientists have not yet been established. There is an assumption about the genetic nature of the pathology, when symptoms manifest themselves under the influence of environmental factors. Hereditary predisposition is confirmed by the fact that children whose father or mother suffers from psoriasis have similar health problems in 14% of cases. If this pathology is diagnosed in both parents, then the risk of its occurrence in a child increases to 40%.

According to most dermatologists, psoriasis is a chronic dermatosis, the mechanism of which is caused by autoimmune processes in the body. This is confirmed by the presence in the blood of patients of immune complexes, especially during the progression of rash. Moreover, such complexes can be detected not only on the scalp, but also in other organs and systems: kidneys, heart and blood vessels, liver, joints.

The characteristic manifestation of the pathology is the formation of psoriatic plaques of reddish color. Damage to the scalp is most common in young patients, adolescents. It can be combined with other rashes (for example, on the limbs or trunk) or it can be the only symptom.

The disease is non-infectious and non-dangerous, but it creates psychological problems for the patient, especially with a large lesion area. Rashes look unaesthetic: flat inflammatory papules that have clearly defined boundaries and rounded shape. And on a rough surface are loose silvery scales, which are easily scraped.

Primarily, the disease manifests itself in the form of small papules - 1-2 mm. Subsequently, they increase in size and can reach a diameter of 1-3 cm. Sometimes such formations merge, forming plaques up to 10 cm or more.

Most often, the rash is localized at the border of hair growth in the back of the head and in the area of ​​the temples. Their appearance is accompanied by itching, hair loss. Scales exfoliate, resembling dandruff in appearance. (Sometimes the pathology is hidden under the mask of seborrhea). This is especially noticeable on dark clothes. All this creates a certain psychological discomfort for the patient. As a result, itching increases on the nervous system, which leads to additional trauma to the plaques.

There are the following stages of the development of pathology:

• manifestation and progression - plaques appear, their gradual growth occurs,
• stationary period - the rash remains stable in size,
• remission - the gradual disappearance of plaques.

After the disappearance of plaques in their place for some time there may be light areas of skin. Less often, on the contrary, hyperpigmentation (darkening) areas are visible. For psoriasis of the head is characterized by the presence of so-called "on duty" lesions, when even during remission there are one or more small plaques.

The severity of manifestations of the disease is assessed according to the international scale PASI. It takes into account the prevalence of lesions and their size, the nature of the inflammatory process. The following forms are distinguished:

• index less than 15 is a mild form
• an index of more than 15 is a severe form.

There are also three degrees of severity:

• light - less than 50% of the scalp is affected, there is a slight redness, dandruff and itching,
• moderate - the disease also affects less than 50% of the scalp, but redness, dandruff and itching are more pronounced,
• severe - more than 50% of the head is affected, redness, dandruff and itching are expressed.

Diagnostics

Determine the disease by the presence of characteristic rashes. In some cases, microscopic examination of plaques may be necessary. Relatively rarely perform biopsy of the affected areas. As can be seen from the table, the disease is important to distinguish from some other pathologies.

Table - Differential Diagnosis

Therapy depends on the severity of the process. Of the systemic drugs used:

• detoxification,
• antihistamines,
• retinoids,
• hepatoprotectors
• cytostatics,
• immunosuppressants,
• glucocorticoids.

A prerequisite for treatment is the use of local drugs. Again, their choice depends on the degree of prevalence and stage of psoriasis. For example, at the initial stage, when there is a progression of lesions, most dermatologists recommend using local glucocorticoid drugs and moisturizing cosmetics. At the stage of stabilization of the process, it is sufficient to provide adequate care using anti-inflammatory, keratolytic or moisturizing preparations.

Basic care

To improve the condition of the scalp, it is better to use special shampoos with softening and cleansing effects. They contain urea, sulfur and salicylic acid. Examples:

Patients particularly note the effectiveness of the BabyBene gel. It is applied to the scalp and moistened with water. This can be done at night. In the morning, along with the preparation, scaly layers are also removed. If necessary, treatment can be repeated.

From domestic drugs recommend the line "Emolium". It includes shampoo and a special emulsion with softening and moisturizing effects. This is ensured thanks to the components of linolenic acid, urea, shea butter and macadamia. These funds can be used for basic daily care.

With a mild form of pathology, regular use of a special shampoo is often enough to control the problem. The pharmacy presents a huge number of such cosmetics. They are gently applied to wet hair, lightly massage the skin. Then you can leave the tool for a few minutes, then rinse. Some of these drugs are equipped with a special spray or pipette, which greatly facilitates their use. Other products can be applied to dry scalp and then left to act for several hours, preferably overnight. After the tool works, it is washed off.

Conventional dandruff shampoos can also be used. However, only from time to time. Despite the fact that they slightly improve the condition, with prolonged use too dry the skin. The best option is to use neutral shampoos that do not irritate the skin.

It is especially important not to irritate the skin unnecessarily, because it can aggravate the symptoms. In addition, when caring for hair you need to be careful not to injure the skin, even if sometimes the rash itches. Women should avoid styling, it is better to abandon a hot hair dryer, do not use varnishes and sprays.

Anti-inflammatory measures

After cleansing the skin and removing scaly layers, the goal of treatment is to eliminate the effects of dermatitis. It is carried out with the help of local cortisone preparations and combined drugs.
The use of glucocorticoids is possible in various dosage forms: emulsion, shampoo or spray. Glucocorticoids used for this purpose have a different power of action (class). For example, apply:

• clobetasol - class IV,
• betamethasone valerate - class III,
• Mometasone furoate - class III.

Cortisone preparations can not be used for more than four to six weeks: the active ingredient makes the skin more thin and sensitive, it becomes susceptible to infections.

The combination of betamethasone (class III) with a vitamin D3 analogue - calcipotriol is often used. There are also preparations containing only calcipotriol. For example, "Takaltsitol." It is suitable for use over a long period (up to one year).

Dithranol preparations (tsignoline or anthralin) are often used in dermatological practice. The substance is known since 1916, is considered effective in local antipsoriatic therapy. It has an anti-inflammatory effect due to a decrease in immune complexes, slows down the rapid proliferation of skin cells, characteristic of psoriasis, improves the differentiation of the cellular composition of the dermis. It is important that against the background of the use of this drug is not observed atrophy of the skin. The problem is that the substance is oxidized to a brownish black color when in contact with oxygen and creates staining zones on contact objects and skin. For the treatment of psoriasis of the head it is applied for a short period of time (minute therapy) and then washed off.

Help to restore hair tar shampoos. They also reduce the severity and size of the rash. Such cosmetics can be used for shampooing courses.

Scheme of local therapy

Schematically, the main stages of local treatment of psoriasis on the head are as follows.

• Cleansing the skin. BabyBene gel is applied. Preferably overnight use. Reusable use possible.
• Hormones. Apply one-component glucocorticoids: Clarelux, Clobex, Deflatop, Monovo emulsion. As well as drugs based on glucocorticoid and vitamin D3: Daivonex gel.
• Non-hormonal therapy. Dithranol is used. The recipe: dithranol (0.25% or 0.5%), salicylic acid (5%), Silix oil (up to 100 ml). Apply using disposable gloves. It is recommended to start with an active substance concentration of 0.25%. The starting time of the procedure is ten minutes. Then every three days increase the application time by five minutes. And so to 30 minutes. If the symptoms do not completely disappear, the concentration of dithranol is increased to 0.5%.
• Means with tar. Use a 4% solution of tar (shampoo).
• Phototherapy Ultraviolet type B with a narrow spectrum using a "light" comb.

Systemic Drug

They are prescribed only in cases where local treatment and light therapy have not yielded the desired effect. Or in severe course of the disease. Drugs with proven efficacy are listed.

• "Methotrexate". May result in significant regression of scaly eruptions four to eight weeks after starting therapy. It is believed that the active ingredient of this drug affects the immune system and slows the excessive growth of skin cells. However, often after drug withdrawal, new foci appear, often resistant to therapy. In addition, Methotrexate has many side effects. In particular, it has a damaging effect on the kidney tissue.
• "Cyclosporin A". It is proved that the drug is effective in all forms of psoriasis. It is one of the immunosuppressants that suppress the function of the immune system. However, it also causes many serious complications. For example, damage to the gastrointestinal tract or renal failure.
• Biologically active proteins. These are artificially synthesized proteins that are identical to those in the human body. Rarely provoke adverse reactions or allergies. Drugs based on them (Infliximab, Efalizumab) are relatively new, and there are no long-term studies for them. Their cost is high, so they are assigned to patients who are resistant to treatment with standard means.

Do not self-medicate. Improper use of drugs, including expensive ones, may not only not improve the condition, but also cause aggravation. At the same time, the treatment regimen optimally selected by the doctor on the basis of professional experience allows, in many cases, to reduce the symptoms of pathology and significantly prolong remission.

What it is?

Scalp psoriasis is a chronic epidermis disease. Usually there are flashes and extinction of this disease. At the next relapse, lumpy specks of red tint appear on the skin, on top of which are covered with silver-white scales. Fortunately, only 2.5% of the population of our planet suffer from this disease. By the way, it is not contagious like head skin cancer, but this does not eliminate the need for its treatment.

And adults are more susceptible to seborrheic dermatitis, we will talk about it here.

If we talk about the causes of psoriasis, it is still unknown what could be a specific cause. Therefore, by saying “cause” we mean only possible factors contributing to the onset of psoriasis.

Causes of psoriasis in children:

• Failure of the central and autonomic nervous system.
• Disturbed metabolism.
• Thyroid problems.
• Weakened protective functions of immunity.
• Infection with bacterial and viral infections.
• Poor liver function.
• The defeat of parasitic infections, because of which allergies can develop, there is a lack of calcium, vitamin D, silicon and other useful elements.
• The reaction of the child's body to climate change.
• Transferred a strong emotional shock.
• Disease flu, pneumonia.
• Trauma to the skin of the head.

In adults

Factors contributing to the appearance of psoriasis in adults:

• Genetics.
• Dry thin epidermis.
• External factors that irritate the skin (these can be oils, lubricants, paints and other chemicals). Most often, such factors appear in hazardous industries.
• Too active hygiene when the desired protective layer is washed off on the dermis.
• Abuse of alcohol and tobacco.
• Improper diet (especially fatty foods).
• The occurrence of stressful situations.
• Taking certain medicines (antidepressants, anticonvulsants, and antimalarial drugs).
• Defeat infections.

At the initial stage

At the very beginning of the disease, a pair of small reddish spots with a white patina appear on the head.that cause persistent itching. Oozing blood in case of damage to papules. The sizes at the initial stage do not exceed the pimples, but at the same time they have clearly limited edges.

Sometimes it happens that itching and not at all. But at the same time the surface of the epidermis flakes off, and when combing appears the surface. Gradually papules grow together and become more ambitious.

In a progressive stage

• The epidermis itch amplifies.
• Reddish spots increase in size and quantity.
• Pain, coarsening of the skin, the performance of blood in contact with other objects.
• The appearance of scales that look like dandruff.
• With mechanical damage to the scalp, new scaly plaques appear immediately.

At the regressive stage

The disease is cyclical. Each cycle ends with a regression stage in which:

1. peeling decreases and sometimes disappears altogether
2. in those places where there were rashes, pigmentation may appear,
3. the general condition of the patient is normalized.

Photo of the scalp

In the photo below you can see how psoriasis looks on the head in children and adults:

Treatment of the disease

If you experience the first symptoms of scalp psoriasis, immediately contact a dermatologist. He will determine the extent of the disease and give you the necessary treatment.

Reduce itching without drugs, creams and lotions you are unlikely to succeed, so it’s better if even the slightest hint of psoriasis appears, consult a doctor immediately.

Medication

• Reamberin. It has the form of a solution, is introduced by drip. It has the function of removing toxins from the body. The main component is succinic acid, which has always been famous for its antioxidant properties, and it also perfectly nourishes the blood with oxygen.
• Methotrexate. It is used only for the treatment of severe forms of scalp psoriasis. Its main function is the slowing down of cell division. It has many side effects, so it should be taken only after consulting a specialist.
• Fenkarol or Telfast. Helps reduce the feeling of itching. In the first and second cases, side effects may occur: headaches, fatigue, drowsiness, apathy.

Hormonal drugs

Any hormonal drug should be taken with extreme caution due to the many side effects and only in the case of an acute form of the disease.

Most often, hormonal drugs are ointments.

• Based on triamcinolone - Ftorokort, Nazakort, Kenakort. Fights inflammation, itching of the skin.
• Based on fluocortolone, fluocinolone and flumethasone - "Lorinden", "Sinalar", "Sinaflan". Stops the formation of new papules.
• Based on hydrocortisone - “Hydrocortisone”, “Corteid”, “Fucidin”. It copes well with inflammation of the epidermis, negates the pain. Not recommended long-term use of ointment.
• Based on mometasone - "Elokom", "Silkaren". Eliminate itching, exudate.
• Based on clobetasol - "Skin-Cap", "Dermoveit". Differs the most rapid effect. The course of treatment lasts a maximum of five days.

Non-hormonal creams and ointments

• Salicylic ointment. Fights inflammation, itching.
• "Zinocap". Reduces inflammation, peeling. Apply twice a day with a thin layer on the dermis for 45 days.
• "Losterin". Contains naftalan, urea, salicylic acid, D-panthenol, vegetable components. Used three times a day for fifteen days.
• "Psoriaten". Homeopathic medicine. Removes all symptoms of the disease.
• "Magnispor". Ointment based on fatty grease, herbal extracts, minerals, oils. Apply daily for 45-60 days.

Physiotherapy

This is the process of reducing the symptoms of scalp psoriasis with ultraviolet rays.
Hair often becomes an obstacle to deep penetration of UV rays into the scalp. Therefore, at the moment created a special comb, whose action is based on UV rays. The result is noticeable after twenty procedures.

Traditional methods of treatment

1. Oil compresses. Mix in equal proportions olive oil with peanut. The resulting mixture should be heated and massage applied to the skin. Put a plastic cap on top, roll up with a towel and leave overnight. Wash off the tool will only work with apple cider vinegar.
2. Onion wrap. Chop a few bulbs in a blender, moisten hair, apply gruel in the epidermis with massage movements. Put on a plastic cap. After fifteen minutes, wash off with tar soap.
3. Golden mustache. Prepare a decoction: for this, take the leaves of the plant and a liter of water, rinse your head after each wash.

Proper skin care

Basic shampooing tips:

• Baths with ailment are strongly discouraged, because couples can dry the epidermis even more,
• after the washing procedure, it is forbidden to rub the skin, it is better to gently wet the hair and scalp,
• Special purpose medical shampoos can be applied 1-2 times in one procedure,
• while visiting the pool, apply petroleum jelly to the papules and protect the head with a special cap,
• It is best to alternate healing shampoo with tar shampoo, for prevention purposes it is recommended to use baby shampoo without lauryl sulfate, parabens, fragrances and other chemicals,
• after washing, rinse your head with either grass-based decoctions (turn, chamomile, burdock, oak bark), or purified water with vinegar or lemon juice,
• during washing of the head only water of average temperature is used (by no means hot or cold),
• you can not wash your hair often.

What means are suitable for washing the head? Experts advise using the following shampoos as a women's skin care for psoriasis:

1. Hormonal (based on ketoconazole and climbazole, which can disinfect the skin and stabilize the sebaceous glands, for example, Nizoral, Horsepower, Dermazole and many others),
2. Tar tar (curative suspension softens psoriatic plaques, and also contributes to their gentle exfoliation, - Psoril, Algopix, Frieder Tar, Tan, Psori-shampoo),
3. Cosmetic (Clear Vita Abe, Vichy, Friederm Balance, Sulsena),
4. Based on zinc pyrithione (Friederm zinc, Libriderm zinc, Skin cap, Etrivex and others),
5. Baby (Hippo, Jhonson’s Baby, Buebchen, I and Mom, and others).

We also recommend that you read this article, in it you will find information on how to care for normal scalp and problem skin.

How to care

In the presence of symptoms on the hair areas of the skin, the care of the scalp is extremely important. For psoriasis, the following guidelines should be followed:

• refuse to blow-dry hair
• do not touch the plaques, so as not to injure the skin
• do not paint with aggressive pigments when painting
• wash your hair with specialized shampoo
• protect the head from direct sunlight during the summer period

When selecting a special shampoo, you must always consult a dermatologist. Some drugs are strictly contraindicated for pregnant women, children, as they have side effects. To avoid skin trauma during shampooing, strong mechanical stress should be avoided.

To maintain your immunity, not to allow the disease to prevail, you will need to maintain a healthy life-style and give up all bad habits and pseudo-needs. Eat right, eat only healthy food.

Daily compliance with standards of hygiene will be an advantage in the fight against psoriasis.

There are many therapeutic shampoos and other complex healing compositions that allow you to take care of psoriatic skin. How to care for the scalp correctly? No need to exert excessive pressure on the affected areas, and medicinal compounds gently rubbed with pillows of fingers.

Tips to relieve symptoms:

• No bathing, steam dries the skin
• Do not irritate the skin by rubbing after washing.
• Carefully dry the curls and skin beneath them
• Use of therapeutic compositions up to two times at a time
• To apply not only medical, but also tar shampoo.
• Rinse your head after washing with various herbal broths (series, chamomile, burdock, oak bark)
• To wash the head only with warm, comfortable body water
• Do not wash your hair too often, it can badly affect the skin.

Means for washing the head:

The main methods of prevention

Psoriasis can occur for a variety of reasons. But each person suffering from this disease is trying to increase the period of remission as much as possible.

Experts recommend several methods of avoiding exacerbation, which include:

1. Diet.
2. Healthy lifestyle.
3. Skin care.
4. Climatotherapy.
5. Vitamin therapy.

Each of these factors is an integral part of the prevention of psoriasis. Since this disease can cause any negative impact on the body. Thus, the patient needs to create ideal living conditions that will avoid new lesions and prolong the remission period.

Diet for psoriasis is not only the exclusion of certain foods, but also the use of wholesome food. After all, in order to prevent any disease, including psoriasis, it is necessary that the body receives only useful substances.

Thanks to this, the immunity is increased, the work of many vital organs is normalized, and the general well-being of a person is also improved. Despite the fact that there is no concrete evidence that the diet eliminates the rash, proper nutrition will still speed up the healing process, and will provide an opportunity to prolong remission periods.

If we talk about foods that are desirable to exclude from the diet, then they include:

• smoked meat
• salty and spicy foods
• corn and flour products on cornmeal,
• vegetables and fruits, which belong to the group of allergens. These include strawberries, bananas or any citrus fruit,
• mushrooms,
• eggs,
• chocolate,
• semi-finished products.

As for those products that should be consumed in small quantities, then these include:

Diet does not mean refusal of tasty food. A healthy diet includes foods rich in vitamins, minerals and other substances.

These include products such as:

1. All kinds of cereal (buckwheat, oatmeal or wheat).
2. Dairy products (milk, cheese, ryazhenka, sour cream).
3. All kinds of vegetables and herbs (cucumbers, carrots, onions, and others, with the exception of tomatoes).
4. Fruits, with the exception of the above contraindications.

In addition to products, the patient must be aware of the water balance. During the day, a person should drink at least one and a half liters of liquid per day. It can be compotes, juices, plain or mineral water.

Healthy lifestyle

A healthy lifestyle involves many factors.

• correct day regimen
• rejection of bad habits,
• avoid stressful situations.

Correctly distributed time allows a person not only to perform the tasks assigned during the day, but also to have a good time. After all, good sleep is a guarantee of human health.

But speaking about work, you must also take into account the predisposition to psoriatic rash. Since exposure to high temperatures, increased humidity or interaction with chemicals are a threat to people suffering from psoriasis.

Therefore, it is best to choose a job whose conditions allow you to work in safety.

Read here about the effects of psoriasis.

From this article you will find out whether psoriasis is contagious.

Bad habits such as smoking, alcohol or drugs adversely affect the human body. The use of such substances reduces immunity and impairs the functioning of the nervous system. And such factors are the possible provocateurs of the disease.

Stress, depression or other psycho-emotional disorders also increase the risk of psoriasis. Therefore, some experts recommend not only to avoid stressful situations, but also, if necessary, to take certain sedatives.

In addition to the drug approach, you can use special methods of anti-stress program. It can include yoga, massage or other relaxation options.

Skin care

Skin care is necessary not only for exacerbations of psoriasis, but also during periods of remission.

After all, any damage or exposure to chemicals can be the impetus for a repeated rash.

Therefore, it is necessary to highlight a few basic and useful skin care rules for the prevention of psoriatic rash.

1. Regular water treatments. This includes not just daily swimming, but also certain healing techniques. For example, in winter, people with a predisposition to psoriasis should systematically take baths with medicinal herbs. But in the summer it is best to wash in water at room temperature.
2. It is necessary to use only soft sponges. Since rigid analogs can significantly damage the skin of a person, triggering a new outbreak of the disease.
3. For shampoos, it is advisable to use special shampoos (How to choose a shampoo for psoriasis, read here) for psoriasis.
4. After carrying out water procedures, the skin should be moistened with special creams or lotions.
5. For daily hygiene, you must use special tools that do not contain chemicals that contribute to skin diseases.

Speaking of skin care, it is impossible not to mention minor injuries. In order to avoid such injuries, it is advisable not only to avoid risky situations, but also shortly trim the nails. Even this, as it seemed a trifling moment, can lead to small cuts and the occurrence of psoriasis.

Vitamin therapy

One of the causes of psoriasis can be considered a lack of vitamins (About what vitamins to drink with psoriasis, read here) in the body. As a result, the work of the immune system decreases, the general condition worsens, and there is a risk of the emergence of various diseases in the body, which in the future may be the impetus for a new outbreak of psoriatic rash.

Therefore, it is very important to take care of intake of vitamins. In psoriasis, it is very important to obtain vitamins of groups A, B, E and D. Each of them contributes to one or another beneficial process in the body, contributing to the normalization of the work of internal organs and systems.

Thus, vitamin A is involved in the regeneration of affected skin, vitamin E improves metabolism, vitamin B normalizes the nervous system, and vitamin D is one of the most important elements regulating the condition of the epidermis.

Climatotherapy

Such a way to improve your health is a very important point in the prevention of psoriasis. Moreover, trips to sanatoriums have a beneficial effect on the condition of the skin both during treatment and during periods of remission. The feedback from many patients suggests that resorts in Israel have a stunning effect.

Rest on the Dead Sea allows not only to reduce psoriatic plaques, but also to increase the periods of subsidence of the disease. Salt and mud baths, specific air, saturated with useful trace elements and exposure to ultraviolet rays on the coast of the Dead Sea, are the most effective ways to forget about psoriasis for a long time.

From this video you will learn about the prevention of psoriasis and about the features of treatment:

How do the properties of skin affected by psoriasis change?

For skin affected by psoriasis, characterized by accelerated renewal of the epidermis. Normally, it takes 3-4 weeks to fully renew the cells of the epidermis, and with psoriasis it takes only 4-7 days. Due to dehydration, the skin becomes dry and less elastic. In addition, it becomes prone to inflammation, so the plaques that appear on different parts of the body, especially on the arms, legs, torso and scalp, have a reddish color. Usually plaques are covered with thin whitish scales.
Psoriasis is a chronic disease with a wave-like course, usually occurring after 15 years.

How can pain and itching be reduced?

In order not to aggravate the inflammation, try not to rub or comb the plaques. When caring for your skin, treat it with extreme care. Horny crusts that form on elbows, knees and scalp should not be removed. It is better if the scales peel off gradually by themselves as the skin heals.

How should I wash my psoriatic skin?

During washing, try not to rub or stretch the skin.

It is better to give preference to the soul, rather than baths, because they dry the skin. However, to relax, you can sometimes take a bath, but on the condition that it will not take too long and the water will not be very hot - a maximum of 37-38 ° C.

Soaps should be used neutral and without fragrances.

After washing, do not try to remove the cornified skin on the elbows and knees.

Drain the skin with a towel should be very carefully, slightly pressing it to the body.

Thoroughly drain all creases and hidden skin. Pay special attention to the ear canals and the skin behind the auricles, armpits, skin folds under the mammary glands, the umbilical region and groin, and the skin between the toes.

Is it possible to swim with psoriasis?

You can swim with psoriasis, but not during exacerbations, when the skin is especially vulnerable. To other swimmers, explain that psoriasis is not infectious, and they risk nothing by being close to you.

Before swimming in the pool, apply petroleum jelly on the plaques to protect them from the effects of chlorine and other chemicals added to the water. Coming out of the pool, rinse the skin with warm clean water. Drain the skin with a soft towel, lightly patting it on the body.

What kind of cosmetics and skin care products can I use for psoriasis?

With psoriasis, you can use mild alkaline soaps, deodorants, decorative cosmetics, etc. The best products are suitable for sensitive or children's skin. If you are allergic to any perfume, use the same hypoallergenic means that you used before the first exacerbation of psoriasis. It should be remembered that substances that cause allergic reactions may be part of air fresheners and fabric softeners.

When inflammation of the skin in the armpits, it can be washed with saline. Until redness of the skin passes, it is not recommended to use deodorants. Products containing alcohol and aromatic substances should be avoided.

You can use ordinary and waterproof cosmetics for eyes, lips and face.

For hair removal, it is better to use cold wax, which irritates the skin less than hot wax, depilatory creams or shaving, especially if the plaques are located on the legs and armpits.

What skin care products should I use for psoriasis?

Those who suffer from psoriasis, it is difficult to decide which means to remove cosmetics or body lotions are better to use, especially when you consider the ever-growing range of these products. In this section we will introduce you to what products are suitable for the care of sensitive skin of the face and body.

We will provide a non-exhaustive list, but only some of the tools that you can use. Feel free to ask the pharmacist questions for more information.

Psoriasis is a chronic disease, often with a wave-like course. It is characterized by enhanced proliferation of keratinocytes, leading to hyperkeratosis (thickening of the stratum corneum of the epidermis), and the appearance of inflamed reddish plaques on the skin.

List of funds

The range of skin care products for psoriasis is far from complete, so it is important to choose products that do not cause irritation and do not have allergenic properties. Skin irritation can lead to Kebner's phenomenon, i.e., the appearance of new plaques on irritated skin. There are keratolytic agents on the market that help remove flakes, which facilitates the access of topical preparations (for example, glucocorticoids and vitamin D derivatives) to damaged skin and their absorption. Finally, with psoriasis, it is necessary to use emollients (moisturizers), as they increase the elasticity of the skin and make it less rough and dry. Especially suitable for this means on the basis of water from thermal sources (possess softening and anti-inflammatory properties).

Although skin care products cannot replace topical treatments for psoriasis, they both can complement each other. Skin care products help to improve the general condition of patients with psoriasis, as they reduce discomfort and improve the appearance of the skin. Well-hydrated skin looks better and becomes softer, making patients with psoriasis feel more confident. Thus, the use of these tools can help to improve their quality of life.

Moisturizing body lotions

With psoriasis, the skin becomes dry and coarse, the horny layer of the epidermis thickens considerably. Violation of cellular processes leads to the fact that the skin becomes harder to retain moisture, and it undergoes dehydration. Therefore, with psoriasis, it is recommended to use emollients that make the skin more plastic. Substances such as urea, amino acids and lactic acid, which absorb and retain water, give these agents emollient properties, and petrolatum, beeswax, vegetable oils and ceramides that prevent dehydration of the skin - protective properties.

Which is better to use means?

It is better to use products with the designation “O / W” (oil in water) on the package, using which the skin becomes not as oily as when using products with the designation “W / O” (water in oil). Patients with psoriasis are usually suitable for very dry skin care products and products intended for patients with atopic dermatitis. However, inflammation of the skin in psoriasis does not always lead to its dryness. Atopic dermatitis is a skin disease that manifests as eczema. Although its individual manifestations (especially redness and itching of the skin) resemble some forms of psoriasis, atopic dermatitis does not lead to a thickening of the stratum corneum of the epidermis.

Is there a special treatment method?

Special treatment intended for different forms or stages (progressive or stable) of psoriasis has not been developed. However, all patients are well tolerated moisturizers that are used after a shower and bath and have a long lasting effect. It is believed that they can slow down the renewal of skin cells by half and prevent the emergence of new lesions.

It is important to remember that emollients cannot be used immediately prior to skin irradiation with UV-A or UV-B, since they make it difficult for the radiation to reach the skin. However, they can be used the day before the procedure or the night before.

What means to buy if there are itchy plaques?

Patients with psoriasis, especially if they have itchy plaques, are suitable for skin care that is affected by atopic dermatitis (enriched with omega-3 fatty acids and essential fatty acids). Although a deficiency of fatty acids is characteristic of atopic dermatitis, there is every reason to believe that they are necessary in psoriasis, since it is characterized by accelerated renewal of the epidermis.

Keratolytic agents

Keratinization of the skin is a normal process during which the skin is renewed by keratinocytes. Keratinocytes make up the main population of epidermal cells and produce keratin. In psoriasis, their functioning is impaired, as a result of which the horny layer of the epidermis thickens and becomes covered with scales. Since kelling of keratinocytes is disturbed in psoriasis, the skin becomes more coarse. To combat hyperkeratosis (thickening of the skin), various substances are used, including salicylic acid, urea, and lactic acid.

What substances are most effective?

Salicylic acid, which has a keratolytic and antiseptic effect, is an active ingredient that is part of many of the tools used to irritate and peel the skin. Urea acts as a keratolytic and moisturizing agent. The so-called alpha-hydroxy acids and fruit acids (for example, glycolic and citric) have long been used in cosmetology due to their exfoliating and smoothing action, since they help to remove excess cell cell. Stronger alpha-hydroxy acids (with lower pH) have a more pronounced exfoliating effect. In psoriasis, only the weakest alpha-hydroxy acids, such as ammonium lactate, can be used. Keratolytics are available in creams and emulsions, they help remove outdated epidermis and flakes. These remedies are especially recommended to be applied on thickened and scaly skin of the body and scalp.

Most keratolytic agents contain another active ingredient that helps moisturize the stratum corneum of the epidermis. These products can be used as a maintenance treatment to ensure normal skin moisture and prevent exacerbations. With the defeat of the epidermis, these funds soften it and make it more plastic.

Treatment for weeping skin lesions

In some cases, psoriasis is accompanied by moistening of the skin, in which the affected areas resemble bubbles located on its surface. These bubbles are filled with a colorless or yellowish clear liquid. If they are damaged, spontaneous or due to scratching, the skin looks moist and can become covered with crusts. In those places where the skin is experiencing constant friction, the bubbles reappear after they burst. The cause of soak can be injury or inflammation.

Care of the scalp

In psoriasis of the scalp, the skin in this area may thicken and become covered with red plaques covered with a large number of scales. To remove scales and reduce itching it is necessary to use keratolytic shampoos that do not contain tar. The shampoo is applied to the hair roots and washed off after 5 minutes. After that, the hair should be thoroughly rinsed and then rinsed again using a suitable shampoo for this type of hair. After the scalp is cleansed from the lesion, you must use mild shampoos that prevent the appearance of dandruff. If you use a suitable shampoo, you can wash your hair daily. To remove scales from the scalp, you can apply keratolytic creams. For maximum effect, it is recommended to apply the cream on the scalp and leave for 2 hours, wearing a shower cap on the head. In the absence of exacerbation of psoriasis, you can dye your hair, but in this case they can not be washed with hot water and dried with hot air.

What is psoriasis

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease, the cause of which is difficult to establish. Some experts believe that the root of the problem lies in the action of retroviruses that are inherited. Others associate the onset of the disease with a weakened immune system. In any case, the disease is classified as multifactorial, therefore none of us are immune from the appearance of psoriatic papules.

In the early stages, even a narrowly focused specialist cannot distinguish dandruff from psoriasis, because the skin simply peels off and the horny scales overlap each other. But as soon as the dermis begins to become covered with crusts, it is immediately possible to suspect psoriasis.

Manifestations of psoriasis:

• peeling,
• the formation of psoriatic plaques (papules), the upper part of which resembles a wax film,
• around each nidus, there is a red or pink outline that is formed due to the inflammatory process on the dermis,
• optionally, psoriasis appears only on the scalp, - papules you can see on the elbows, forehead, neck, groin and other parts of the body.

Interesting to know. In psoriasis, the epidermis is renewed. Standard peeling of the upper layers occurs after 28 days, and in the case of illness - every 5-7 days. As a result, keratinized scales layered over each other, creating psoriatic plaques with a whitish plaque.

Psoriasis is exacerbated in case of severe stress, hormonal disruptions, past illnesses, weakened immunity and metabolic disorders.

How to comb curls

Scalp care for psoriasis requires proper scratching. Experts recommend using either wooden combs or special massages with natural bristles.

When combing hair you need to start from the tips of the curls, gradually moving up. In case of exacerbation, try not to affect the skin of the scalp at all.

If you are going to carry out combing scales, you can wind a little cotton wool on the comb, moistened with 2% boric alcohol. It is this kind of disinfected soft bristles that will help you to make the most gentle peeling.

Hair should be combed only after natural drying, when it dries well.

Can I dye my hair

Dermatologists and trichologists prohibit staining in the presence of psoriatic papules in the acute stage. The fact is that aggressive dyes can adversely affect the scalp, aggravating the situation. Such an event is especially contraindicated for those who have exacerbation of psoriasis.

But there are Some types of gentle staining that can be applied even with psoriasis:

• highlighting, when the master retreats a few centimeters from the hair roots,
• ombre suggesting light or contrasting transitions between natural and colored hair,
• highlighting the hair, when in some colors are painted curls, located below the head of hair,
• dyeing with natural dyes - henna and basma,
• conduct a full painting with ammonia free dyes or toned hair with sparing tint.

An important point! If exacerbation is observed, discard any staining. Otherwise, sores, severe redness, scars, and even blisters are possible, like a burn.

Burdock Mask

Everyone knows that burdock oil perfectly feeds the dermis with vitamins and minerals. It has a beneficial effect on the state of the epidermis, contributing to proper cell division. Calendula, which is part of the following mask, reduces inflammation, so you quickly get rid of redness and itching.

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp. l burdock oil,
• 1 tsp calendula tincture
• 2 egg yolks.

Preparation and use:

1. Combine all the ingredients: whisk the yolk, stirring with a whisk, add oil to it and add calendula.
2. Distribute this compound to plaque formation sites.
3. Put on a plastic bag on top and wrap the hair with a towel.
4. Soak for about 30 minutes, and then wash off with plenty of water.

Apply this mask not recommended for owners of too greasy hair. Another negative point is that because of the calendula, which is part of the healing drug, hair can become an unpleasant reddish tint.

This is a rather old recipe, which has positively proven itself in the fight against peeling in psoriasis.

You will need:

• 1 onion,
• a few drops of juniper ether and tea tree,
• 1 tsp castor oil.

Preparation and use:

1. You will need to rub the onions on a grater until the state of gruel.
2. Add ether and castor oil melted in a water bath.
3. Distribute the healing suspension on the skin of the head, tighten the hair with cellophane film and build a towel turban.
4. As soon as 40 minutes have passed, you can safely wash off the mask with water with the addition of citric acid.

Unfortunately, this mask leaves an unpleasant trace in the form of onion aroma, which does not erode for several days. It is recommended to use once a week.

The preparation of the miraculous suspension is quite simple, but You will have to buy at the pharmacy:

• dimexide,
• vitamin A and E capsules
• tea tree air
• Castor oil,
• Burr oil,
• Birch tar,
• sea ​​salt (included in the composition, if you do not have an exacerbation of the disease),
• any hair mask or balm.

Preparation and use:

1. Take a few tablespoons of the pharmacy mask and enter into it dimexide (1 tsp.), Which enhances the penetration of useful components.
2. In the resulting suspension add a capsule of vitamins, a few drops of ether, 1 tbsp. l burdock and castor oil, 1 tsp. birch tar and a handful of crushed grains of sea salt. Mix all ingredients well.
3. Distribute homemade cosmetics in places where papules are located, and comb the remainder through the hair.
4. Create a greenhouse effect by wrapping your hair with a towel.
5. Rinse with warm running water with shampoo after one hour.

As the reviews show, this mask for a month of regular use can relieve the symptoms of psoriasis. Perform the procedure every 3 days.

Acetic Essence Mask

Immediately, we note that it is effective, but in the case of contact with healthy skin it can cause a burn. Preparing it is not so easy.

You will need:

• Acetic Essence
• egg,
• 15 mg pork fat (unsalted).

Preparation and use:

1. You take a 200 ml jar in which you place a homemade raw egg (completely, without breaking it).
2. Fill the vinegar essence so that it covers the egg.
3. Close the jar with a nylon cap and leave in a cool place for 2 days.
4. Remove the egg and begin to crush it with the shell.
5. Add pork fat.
6. Wash your hair with soap before use.
7. Apply the slurry on the psoriatic plaques, avoiding healthy areas.
8. You stand for an hour, perhaps a burning sensation.
9. Removes the product gently with a cotton pad or cloth, and the places of application are lubricated with ordinary children's cream.

According to users, after two procedures the cornified scales are completely removed, only the red, inflamed skin remains.

Important! Masks should be selected taking into account the type of skin: fatty curls fit nutritious masks based on kefir, honey, and dry - various oils and esters, gelatin, aloe juice. If the masks include oils, it is better to heat them in a water bath at a temperature of 60 degrees.

In this way, care for the scalp with psoriasis should be regularly and carefully. You should not just wash your hair with a therapeutic shampoo from time to time, but also properly comb your head, reduce the aggressive effect of dyes to nothing, follow the rules of personal hygiene.

Only proper care in symbiosis with a balanced diet and the elimination of stressful situations can quickly eliminate the symptoms of a chronic disease.

Useful videos

My hair care for psoriasis of the scalp. What do I color my hair?

How to cure psoriasis of the scalp.

Watch the video: What is Psoriasis and the Best Psoriasis Treatment at Mayo Clinic (May 2024).