Wondering about those itchy, scaly patches on your scalp and whether there's anything you can do about them? Don't fret. You might be experiencing psoriasis on your scalp, and there are ways to treat it. There is no cure for the autoimmune condition of psoriasis. But there are ways to manage inflamed skin patches.
What Is Scalp Psoriasis?
Scalp psoriasis causes inflammation on the scalp that presents as raised plaques and scales that can itch, burn, and sting. The immune system will speed up the growth of skin cells, and because they are growing too fast, the cells will pile up instead of slough off. This pile-up of skin cells forms the plaques you see on your scalp. Besides the scalp, psoriasis typically presents itself on the elbows and knees.1
Why Do People Get It?
About 45-56% of people with psoriasis have scalp psoriasis. Additionally, scalp psoriasis can be found on the hairline, forehead, neck, and around the ears.
"We don't know why some people get it on the scalp, and some don't," said Adam Friedman, MD, professor of dermatology at George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences.
Dr. Friedman explained that while it's not known exactly what causes plaque psoriasis, a combination of genetic makeup and environmental factors are believed to be involved.
