Scalp psoriasis and hair thinning: How are they related?

Can scalp psoriasis cause hair thinning?

 Scalp psoriasis can lead to hair thinning, though the connection is typically indirect. If your scalp gets affected by psoriasis patches, it can cause severe itching and flare-ups. These patches can even be painful in some cases. Scratching the scalp or trying to remove patches can damage the scalp and lead to temporary hair thinning. 

To prevent this from happening, patients must avoid scratching or rubbing the scalp. While certain home remedies can help alleviate the itch for a short time, seeking proper medical treatment is a must to prevent hair loss. Today, in this blog, we will try to know the connection between psoriasis and hair thinning.  We will also discuss some of the most effective habits to prevent it.  Continue reading to learn more. 

Scalp Psoriasis Overview

Psoriasis is a long-term, non-contagious skin condition characterized by the rapid reproduction of skin cells, leading to thick, discoloured patches that itch. When this autoimmune disease affects the scalp area, it is known as scalp psoriasis.

Scalp psoriasis symptoms include: 

• Itching and flare-ups
• Redness
• Development of silvery-white scales 
• Dandruff-like flakes can also appear 
• Dry scalp
• Bleeding ( sometimes) 
• Burning sensation 
• Temporary hair loss

The condition might arise as a single patch of appearance of multiple patches. It can also affect the entire scalp. If no medical treatment is taken in a timely manner, it can also extend to the forehead, ears, and neck.  

Hair Thinning Causes in Scalp Psoriasis

Scalp psoriasis can lead to hair thinning due to the following reasons; 

• Inflammation:  Scalp psoriasis can lead to chronic inflammation of skin cells. This inflammation can damage hair follicles, potentially resulting in hair thinning.  
• Scratching and Picking: As mentioned above, this habit is the main cause of hair loss. Continuous scratching or picking at affected areas can physically harm hair follicles.  
• Treatment Side Effects: Certain scalp psoriasis treatments, particularly harsh allopathic medications, can weaken hair or cause hair loss. So, patients must observe for the side effects and report them to their health care provider, if any. 
• Stress: The stress associated with living with psoriasis can contribute to hair thinning and loss.  Adopting the right attitude can convert bad stress into a positive one. So, put stress on managing and treating your condition rather than stressing over it. 
• Infection Risk: Open sores from scratching may result in secondary infections, further damaging the scalp and hair follicles.

Temporary vs. Permanent Hair Thinning

Hair thinning caused by scalp psoriasis can often be effectively managed, leading to a temporary condition in most individuals. 

However, if inflammation persists or if there is ongoing scratching, the damage to hair follicles may become significant, potentially resulting in permanent thinning, particularly in severe cases.

How to prevent psoriasis hair loss? 

Here are various ways to prevent hair loss due to scalp psoriasis; 

1. Avoid scratching or picking scales:

   Patients must avoid even touching their scalp unnecessarily. Ask your doctor about medications or remedies that might help you calm unbearable itch and prevent this from happening.

2. Keep your fingernails short:

   Sometimes, you might scratch your scalp unintentionally. Keeping your nails trimmed and short can minimise the damage to psoriasis patches during these times. 

3. Avoid heat exposure:

   Do not use blow dryers, hair straighteners, curlers or other heated styling gadgets. It will reduce psoriasis flare-ups and hair fall and keep your scalp safe from additional damage.   

4. Adjust your diet:

   Inflammatory foods, including milk and other dairy products, gluten, processed foods, red meat, unhealthy fats, and sugar, can exacerbate inflammation and worsen psoriasis symptoms. On the other hand, consuming various vegetables, fruits, and home-cooked food can help reduce inflammation and alleviate psoriasis symptoms.

5. Maintain hair hygiene:

   Wash your hair with lukewarm water twice or thrice a week with gentle hands. Avoid using harsh shampoos and conditioners. 

Home remedies for scalp psoriasis treatment

In addition to a treatment plan, there are certain home remedies that can help patients calm the itch for a short duration. The list includes; 

• Coconut oil:

  A well-known remedy that can help prevent the scalp from drying out and stop patches from spreading. You can apply it slightly heated, adding essential oils such as lavender or neem.

• Aloe vera:

  Applying purified aloe vera gel on affected areas of the scalp can treat itchiness and irritation while keeping it hydrated. Apply it gently to your patches two to three times a day. 

• Baking soda:

  Mix one and a half teaspoons of baking soda with a small amount of warm water to make a paste. Apply the paste to your scalp plaques and leave it on for not more than 10 minutes. It will naturally clean your scalp and help soothe the surface. 

• Sea salt:

  Sea salt, which is rich in minerals such as magnesium, calcium, and potassium, may help relieve itching and reduce inflammation.

So, now we are done with all the preventive measures and home remedies that might benefit in minimising hair thinning due to scalp psoriasis. Now, it is time to look at treatment options for the condition. 

Can scalp psoriasis be cured with homeopathy?

Homeopathy is the one and only medical system that offers a natural cure for psoriasis scalp. The doctors in this medical system work on three factors to cure the conditions. These aspects are diet plans and lifestyle, as well as prescribing personalised homeopathic medicine for psoriasis catered to the needs of patients.

A number of people who tried homeopathic scalp psoriasis treatment have shown positive outcomes. Not only this, but the treatment is completely side-effect-free, safe, and gentle. The medicines are prepared with the help of natural substances. So, homeopathy is one of the most effective medical systems that can benefit patients with psoriasis relief.

Bharat Homeopathy – A natural cure for psoriasis 

With natural and gentle homeopathic remedies, patients can achieve complete relief from their scalp psoriasis at Bharat Homeopathy. The scalp psoriasis homeopathy treatment for the patient begins only after determining the underlying cause and its associated symptoms. Based on this assessment, personalised medicines free from side effects are administered to the patient. These remedies are exceptionally effective. Our experts provide excellent guidance throughout the process. Contact us today to gain more information about our treatment plans.