Uncovering The Possible Link Between Hair Loss And Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a type of rash called an immune-mediated inflammatory disease (IMID) associated with red, scaly, and raised patches appearing on the skin¹ that can grow very rapidly. Although psoriasis can affect any part of the skin, it typically affects the extensor aspects of the knees, elbows, and scalp. It is important to note that this skin condition is not an infection and, therefore, not contagious.

Psoriasis on the scalp is aptly called scalp psoriasis, but it can also extend beyond the scalp in certain cases. Also, it may even appear not exactly on the scalp area but rather on the forehead near the hairline. At times, it can also appear behind the ears or extend to the back of the neck. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, 50% of people with plaque psoriasis, the most common form of psoriasis, will experience flare-ups on the scalp².

Symptoms of scalp psoriasis

Scalp psoriasis can affect the entire scalp and may appear anywhere on its surface. When it does emerge, you may notice the following common (and often intermittent) symptoms³:

Reddish patches: These patches tend to be barely noticeable, especially for patients with thicker hair, or the patches are only mild.
Dandruff flaking: Psoriasis can look similar to dandruff for most people, but there is a big difference between the two: psoriasis causes a dry scale on the affected area and has a silvery colour.
Dry scalp, itching, and bleeding: Scalp psoriasis causes dryness that makes your head constantly feel itchy. Giving in to the urge to scratch it will cause bleeding and exacerbate the psoriasis patch, making the growth thicker and larger.
Soreness or burning sensation: Scalp psoriasis can cause a burning sensation on the scalp, making the affected areas feel extremely sore.

Since these symptoms are intermittent, they largely come and go most of the time. Some may experience many flare-ups of varying severity, while others only get a single mild flare on their head. These flare-ups have many triggers, including dry air, cold weather, and stress.

Scalp psoriasis and hair loss

Hair loss sometimes follows scalp psoriasis, but it is only temporary⁴. Scratching your head is generally the cause for your hair falling out in this case, i.e. forceful methods of removing the scales to get relief may also result in hair loss. When your scalp psoriasis clears, lost hair will grow back in time⁵.

Here are a few tips to avoid scratching your scalp and potentially causing unwanted hair loss⁴:

Limit or outright avoid using blow dryers and other similar hot tools when styling your hair.
Keep your scalp moisturised through hair care products like conditioners.
To relieve scalp irritation, press an ice pack or wet towel on the affected area.

How to manage scalp psoriasis

Although psoriasis breakouts cannot be completely prevented, there are ways to manage the condition. Visit a dermatology clinic or talk with your doctor about how to best manage your alcohol intake, medications, stress level, and other changes in your health⁴.

Be careful when removing scales: Removing the silver scales that form on the scalp is part of treating psoriasis, but be careful when doing so to avoid causing unwanted hair loss.
Avoid stressing yourself out: As mentioned, stress is among the triggers of psoriasis flare-ups. Thus, try to reduce your stress or keep it low as much as possible.
Pay attention to your hair care: Be gentle when brushing your hair, and avoid pulling on it to prevent hair loss. Do note that styling and colouring your hair may also cause flare-ups.

Conclusion

Scalp psoriasis is best treated with the help of a dermatologist who can prescribe you the lifestyle changes, medications, and other treatments necessary for your condition. If scalp psoriasis is left untreated, you will experience symptoms like itching, discomfort, and hair loss.

For concerns regarding your skin, hair, nails, and overall aesthetics, Angeline Yong Dermatology has the solutions you need. Under the care of the highly-experienced Dr Angeline Yong, you will receive her signature personalised care tailored to your needs and skin goals. For more information about our services and treatments, like picosure laser in Singapore, fill in our enquiry form or book an appointment at our clinic today.

References

Psoriasis: What it is, symptoms, causes, types & treatment. Cleveland Clinic. (2022b, September 15). https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/6866-psoriasis

Scalp psoriasis: Causes. American Academy of Dermatology. (n.d.). Retrieved May 12, 2023, from https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/psoriasis/treatment/genitals/scalp-causes

Scalp psoriasis: Symptoms. American Academy of Dermatology. (n.d.). Retrieved May 12, 2023, from https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/psoriasis/treatment/genitals/scalp-symptoms

Silver, N. (2018, December 11). Does Psoriasis Cause Hair Loss? Healthline. Retrieved May 12, 2023, from https://www.healthline.com/health/psoriasis-and-hair-loss#temporary-hair-loss

Almeida, M. C., Romiti, R., Doche, I., Valente, N. Y., & Donati, A. (2013). Psoriatic scarring alopecia. Anais brasileiros de dermatologia, 88(6 Suppl 1), 29–31. https://doi.org/10.1590/abd1806-4841.20132241

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Uncovering The Possible Link Between Hair Loss And Psoriasis