Scalp Psoriasis: How to Choose the Right Treatment
Psoriasis is a chronic immunoassociated disease with lesions of the smooth skin, scalp. Statistics show that the disease is reported in 1-2% of people worldwide. A combination of several triggers plays a role in its development, including hereditary predisposition, immune and endocrine disorders, adverse effects of environmental factors, and so on. In this article we will talk about psoriasis on the head in terms of treatment (shampoos, ointments, lotions)
Hormonal drugs in the treatment of psoriasis of the scalp
Any form of psoriasis is treated with topical corticosteroids, either alone or in combination with other drugs. Numerous studies have shown that the use of topical corticosteroids is an effective method that allows improving the condition of a sick person in a relatively short time.
Depending on the location of pathological foci, these drugs can be prescribed in the form of various dosage forms - shampoos, ointments, lotions, creams.
Clobetazole propionate 0.05% shampoo is used most often for scalp involvement. This agent is applied daily to dry scalp, aged for 15 minutes, and then washed off. Short-term exposure of the drug allows to avoid the development of local and systemic side effects, which determines the safety of therapy.
It is recommended to use this shampoo 2 times a week to prevent recurrences.
Lotions may also be given for psoriasis of the scalp. A good effect is observed with the use of a combination preparation containing betamethasone and salicylic acid. Betamethasone has a pronounced anti-inflammatory effect, salicylic acid has a keratolytic effect, promotes deeper penetration of glucocorticosteroid into the skin.
Non-hormonal agents in psoriasis
Synthetic vitamin D3 analogs are another effective drug that may also be given in combination with corticosteroids. It should be noted that the area of application of the drug should not exceed 30% of the body surface.
When the scalp is affected, gels are the most convenient to use. Vitamin D3 gel analogs are applied to the head once a day for a recommended duration of 4 weeks.
In 2018, the results of the work of scientists from the Medical University were published. Objective: to evaluate the efficacy of vitamin D3 analogs in the treatment of psoriasis. The result was a conclusion that vitamin D3 analogs are effective antipsoriatic agents.
Also, drugs containing pyrithione-activated zinc may be used to treat psoriasis. In the form of a shampoo, this agent is applied to wet hair with subsequent slight rubbing, then washed off. After that, the drug is re-applied with an exposure of 5 minutes and subsequent rinsing.
The use of shampoo is allowed 2-3 times a week, the course of treatment - about 5 weeks.
1. Relation between the Peripherofacial Psoriasis and Scalp Psoriasis
2. Scalp Psoriasis and Biologic Agents: A Review
3. Management of scalp psoriasis: current perspectives
4. Scalp Psoriasis: A Literature Review of Effective Therapies and Updated Recommendations for Practical Management
5. Molecular and Cellular Profiling of Scalp Psoriasis Reveals Differences and Similarities Compared to Skin Psoriasis