Psoriasis on the scalp shown on dark skin toneShare on Pinterest
Psoriasis as it may appear on a darker skin tone. Photo: Management of Psoriasis Herpeticum in Pregnancy: A Clinical Conundrum. Case reports in obstetrics and gynecology, 2016.
Psoriasis on the scalpShare on Pinterest
Scalp psoriasis on a lighter skin tone. Christine Langer-Püschel/Getty Images
Psoriasis on the scalpShare on Pinterest
Scalp psoriasis on a lighter skin tone. Anatolev/Shutterstock
Psoriasis on the scalp and behind the earsShare on Pinterest
Scalp psoriasis on a lighter skin tone. Shutterstock
Psoriasis on the neck and back on dark skinShare on Pinterest
Psoriasis as it may appear on darker skin of the neck and back. Medicshots/Alamy Stock Photo Photography courtesy of Masryyy/Wikimedia
  • dryness
  • flaking that resembles dandruff
  • itching, burning, or discomfort
  • raised reddish patches
  • silvery-like scales
  • bleeding or temporary hair loss from scratching or removing the plaques on the scalp
  • neck
  • ears
  • forehead
  • other parts of the face
dermatologisttreatment for scalp psoriasis

Topical treatments

Systemic and biologic treatments

oral systemic medicationsbiologic infusions or injectionsBiologic medications
  • tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha)
  • interleukin 17-A
  • interleukins 12 and 23
Researchbiologics

Phototherapy treatments

Phototherapy treatments

Self-care tips

  • Follow your doctor’s instructions. Always follow the treatment plan you develop with your doctor. If treatments stop working or you notice any joint pain, let them know.
  • Avoid scratching or picking. Scalp psoriasis is different than common dandruff. There may be large and silvery scales. The scales must be carefully removed. Don’t scratch or pick them.
  • Combing and brushing. Scalp psoriasis can also make combing or brushing difficult. Be careful combing or brushing your hair, because it can irritate your scalp. You can use a comb to gently remove scales. Clean the comb before each use to help prevent infection, and talk with your doctor about any adverse effects.
  • Bleeding. Scalp psoriasis can cause itching and discomfort. Bleeding may occur from scratching or removing scales.
  • Hair loss. The effect on hair follicles, heavy scaling, and excessive scratching can cause noticeable hair loss. Entire clumps of hair may also come out when the scalp is damaged. Certain scalp psoriasis treatments and stress may make hair loss worse.
psoriasis treatment