How to Choose the Right Scalp Psoriasis Shampoo
Medically reviewed by Susan Bard, MD
Treatment for scalp psoriasis often involves medicated shampoos. These shampoos may contain ingredients like salicylic acid, coal tar, or clobetasol propionate. Some of these products are available over the counter; others require a prescription.
Finding the right scalp psoriasis shampoo can help you manage the condition and prevent complications.
This article discusses shampoos for scalp psoriasis, side effects, and safety.
What Is Scalp Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a chronic, inflammatory condition affecting the skin. Scalp psoriasis is a subtype that occurs on the scalp. Psoriasis affects 1% to 2% of North Americans; 80% have it on their scalp.
Symptoms of Scalp Psoriasis
Scalp psoriasis symptoms include:
Red patches on the scalp
Flaking and scaling (may be silver in color)
Dryness
Bleeding
Burning sensation
There are many types of psoriasis. Scalp psoriasis is a form of plaque psoriasis resulting in raised patches of thick skin called plaques.
Related: Psoriasis Treatments
How Shampoo Relieves Scalp Psoriasis Symptoms
Scalp psoriasis can be tricky to treat because the hair on the scalp makes applying topical treatments messy. Shampoos help solve that problem by making it easy to use topical medications through a cleaning agent.
Different ingredients in shampoos work to target scalp psoriasis symptoms. Some ingredients soften scales, making them easier to remove, while others help reduce itching.
Types of Scalp Psoriasis Shampoo
Both OTC and prescription scalp psoriasis shampoos are available. The right one for you depends on the severity of your condition.
There are some key ingredients to look for when choosing a psoriasis shampoo. A dermatologist (a healthcare provider specializing in skin conditions) can help you determine which is best for you.
Ingredients in a Psoriasis Shampoo
Some studies support the following medicinal ingredients:
Salicylic acid
Coal tar
Clobetasol propionate
Salicylic Acid
Salicylic acid treats skin conditions, including acne and psoriasis. It is in a class of drugs called keratolytic agents. It works to soften plaques so they can more easily be removed. Salicylic acid is a first-line therapy for scalp psoriasis.
Related: Does Salicylic Acid Help Psoriasis?
Coal Tar
Coal tar is derived from coal. It slows skin cell growth and reduces inflammation, itching, and scaling. For some people, tar can irritate and dry the skin, so you should test it out on a small patch before using it on your entire head.
Coal tar also causes photosensitivity (increased sensitivity to UV radiation). This usually lasts for as long as the medication is active, up to 24 hours. Be extra careful in the sun when using this medication.
Related: How to Find a Good Psoriasis Soap
Clobetasol Propionate
Clobetasol propionate is a prescription topical medication that treats the itching, redness, scaling, and pain associated with scalp psoriasis. It is in a class of drugs called corticosteroids. Corticosteroids are the most prescribed treatment for psoriasis.
Long-term use of these medications is not advised. Be sure to work with a healthcare provider to determine how long and how often you should be using them.
Does Natural Shampoo for Scalp Psoriasis Work?
Instead of medications, some shampoos contain natural ingredients to combat psoriasis. These may include:
Aloe vera: Common skin soother
Apple cider vinegar: Relieves itching but you should avoid it if you have cracks in your skin
Capsaicin: A spicy ingredient in chili peppers that helps with psoriatic itch
Dead sea salts: Exfoliates
Oats: Soothes skin and reduces itch
Tea tree oil: Used for its antiseptic properties
Turmeric: Reduces inflammation
Mahonia aquifolium (Oregon grape): Helps fight fungal or bacterial infections
These natural ingredients may relieve symptoms for some people, especially if the psoriasis is mild. However, these are often not effective enough to be used alone. More frequently, they are used alongside standard medical care.
Related: How to Use Essential Oils for Psoriasis
How to Choose a Treatment for Scalp Psoriasis
Choosing the appropriate treatment depends on how severe your psoriasis is and other factors related to your overall health and lifestyle. A healthcare provider will help you determine which treatment is best.
Because scalp psoriasis can be stubborn, seek medical guidance. This can reduce the time it takes to find effective treatment. A healthcare provider can help you understand what treatments might work best for you and what products have the best track record for treating similar cases. They can also ensure that you have an appropriate diagnosis.
Related: How to Relieve a Dry, Itchy Scalp
Product Suggestions for Scalp Psoriasis Shampoo
We created a list of the best shampoos for scalp psoriasis in consultation with three dermatologists. We prioritized products with expert-recommended ingredients such as salicylic acid or coal tar as well as those that could be used on all hair types, had hair-nourishing ingredients, or were recognized as a safe product by the National Psoriasis Foundation. The list includes:
Best Overall: MG217 Psoriasis Medicated Conditioning Shampoo
Best Budget: Dermarest Psoriasis Medicated Shampoo Plus Conditioner
Best Natural: Wild Naturals Eczema & Psoriasis Shampoo
You should always consult a healthcare provider before starting any new psoriasis treatment product.
When Will You See Results?
How long treatment takes to work depends on the severity of your psoriasis. For mild scalp psoriasis, you may see immediate results from a medicated shampoo. On the other hand, a more moderate or severe case may require a few weeks before you experience relief or improvement.
Side Effects and Safety
Most of the medications in psoriasis shampoos are safe. However, as with all medicines, there are risks and potential side effects. These may include:
Skin irritation
Hair loss
Rash
Skin discoloration
You can reduce your risk by ensuring that a healthcare provider and pharmacist know all the medications and supplements you take and follow the product instructions carefully.
When to Contact a Healthcare Provider
Rarely, a more severe reaction may occur, including:
Severe skin reaction (e.g., skin breaking, pus, burning, pain, redness)
Sudden weight gain
Unusual fatigue, muscle weakness
Depression, irritability
If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical care right away.
What to Do Next If Scalp Psoriasis Shampoo Doesn’t Work
If shampoos alone do not help your scalp psoriasis, you may require additional psoriasis treatment. A dermatologist can help you determine what next steps are appropriate. Some other psoriasis treatment options include:
Topical medication
Scale softeners
Biologics (given via injection or IV)
Other systemic (bodywide) medications including disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs)
Phototherapy (uses UVB lights to slow the growth of the affected skin)
Summary
The vast majority of people with plaque psoriasis have it on their scalp. Medicated shampoos that target scalp psoriasis may help. These shampoos often contain ingredients like coal tar, salicylic acid, and clobetasol, which target flaking, itching, and inflammation.
Scalp psoriasis is notoriously stubborn, so working with a healthcare provider, like a dermatologist, can ensure you see results more quickly.
Related: Psoriasis Treatment
Read the original article on Verywell Health.