Understanding the difference between Scalp Psoriasis and Dandruff

Scalp psoriasis and dandruff are conditions that occur on the scalp and often look similar, creating confusion in many people. Let’s see how Scalp psoriasis differs from dandruff in this blog.

	Scalp Psoriasis	Dandruff
Condition	Scalp psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that affects a part or entire area on the scalp	Dandruff is a common condition that affects the scalp and skin which is not very severe.
Formation	This forms thick plaques and scales, which cause excess itching on the scalp	This forms as a dry or flaky scale on the scalp and will fall out as flakes
Symptoms	It can affect any area of the scalp and will appear as a thick, reddish patch. The affected areas will be itchy, dry flaky, and even bleed. It may also cause temporary hair loss	This causes the affected areas of skin on the scalp to shed a white flake, which usually falls on shoulders and clothes that creates embarrassment in public
Causes	The exact cause of scalp psoriasis is not known yet. However, researchers believe that it may be caused by genetics and environmental exposure	The exact reasons for dandruff are also not proven by scientists yet. Doctors believe that poor hygiene, improper maintenance of hair, and overproduction of yeast in the scalp will cause dandruff
Contagion	Psoriasis can’t be spread from the affected person to a healthy person through physical contact	Most people consider dandruff to be contagious. But it can’t be transferred person-to-person by physical contact
Home Remedies	Firstly, scalp psoriasis should not be scratched Aloe vera gel can treat scalp psoriasis effectively Coconut oil can relieve the inflammation caused in the scalp and smooth it Proper hygiene and practice of meditation can help treat any kind of psoriasis	Medicated shampoo prescribed in the pharmacy Aloe vera gel can also help treat dandruff. Any kind of infection in the skin or hair can be treated with coconut oil, as it has rich properties for smoothing.
The Chemical Process of Creation	When a person gets scalp psoriasis, the immune system becomes overactive, making the skin cells grow faster than usual. This results in the accumulation of excess dead skin cells on the surface of the skin rather than shedding. That is when the patches and plaques appear	In terms of dandruff, a natural oil called sebum will be released excessively in the scalp. Sometimes a fungus called Malassezia, which is naturally present in everyone’s head, will misprocess and lead to dandruff Malassezia
Triggers	Scalp psoriasis will get triggered and worsen with factors like external injuries, infections, excess sun exposure, stress, and certain medications	Dry skin, sensitivity to certain hair products, improper diet, stress, hormonal changes, and improper maintenance of the hair will trigger the dandruff more.
When should I see a doctor?	If a person develops excess itching, redness, or inflammation by scalp psoriasis, immediate medical attention is required.	Usually, dandruff can be cured in the home easily and there is no need for consultation with doctors. However, if a person has dandruff that lasts for many days, they can speak to a healthcare professional
Treatment	Medicated Shampoos – Shampoos containing Clobetasol propionate are one of the most effective methods to treat scalp psoriasis Scale Softeners – Ointments, lotions, and creams containing Salicylic Acid are commonly recommended by dermatologists. Laser Treatments – For the worst condition of scalp psoriasis, doctors provide light treatments like Excimer Laser and Phototherapy which are very effective	Dandruff is not dangerous and usually won’t need specified treatments. Doctors may recommend anti-dandruff shampoos containing zinc pyrithione, Salicylic acid, and coal tar to reduce the fall of flake from the scalp.

Conclusion

Dandruff is primarily caused by a misprocess that occurs in certain immune systems of the body and can often be managed with over-the-counter shampoos containing antifungal agents. On the other hand, scalp psoriasis is an autoimmune condition characterized by the rapid turnover of skin cells. If you find any of these symptoms of scalp psoriasis, it is recommended that you seek the advice of a professional doctor and follow their guidance.

Rakhul Mathivanan

Rakhul Mathivanan, a writer and filmmaker, focuses on creating innovative and unique content through directing short films, writing scripts, blogs, articles, case studies, and website content. He loves to watch movies, read books, listen to music, and travel. He has also had expertise in the field of writing and filmmaking for over a year and works closely with Xemsis by providing them with well-researched blogs about psoriasis.

What is scalp psoriasis and why does it happen?

Scalp psoriasis is an irritating chronic disease caused by the autoimmune system of the body that penetrates the rapid production of skin cells that settle on the scalp as dandruff-like thick silver patches and spread further to the forehead, back of the head, and skin around the ears. This condition causes dryness, excess itching, burning sensations, and bleeding on the scalp. Though many people keep psoriasis-affected patients away from them, it is not contagious and will not spread from contact with the affected people.

What causes scalp psoriasis?

The exact cause of scalp psoriasis is not proven yet. Research says that it may be caused by improper functioning of the immune system, where normal cells get destroyed rapidly and settle as a patch on the scalp. Though many events trigger the growth of scalp psoriasis, genetics is the main reason why it transfers genetically from family members.

Other events that trigger psoriasis include:

Exposure to the sun
Stress
Excess alcohol consumption
Smoking
Some types of infections and allergies
Certain medications.

The symptoms of scalp psoriasis are:

Hair loss
Whitish scale
Dryness
Itching
Burning sensation

Does scalp psoriasis cause hair loss?

Hair loss is common in people with scalp psoriasis. However, it is not caused directly by psoriasis, as there will be excessive itching and rubbing of the scalp by the patient, which triggers the scalp and hair. This hair loss is not permanent, and you will get proper growth once psoriasis is cured.

How to treat scalp psoriasis at home

Aloe Vera: Aloe vera has excellent hair and skin healing properties. Using aloe vera creams can help with excessive itching and cure the inflammation caused by psoriasis in the scalp. Apply the cream regularly to see positive results.

Coconut Oil: This thing can never be left out of the list of home remedies for skin and hair. Coconut oil has rich fats that help with any kind of skin and hair problem. The oil is also added to many topical psoriasis treatments, which can help soothe irritation and soften the thick patches.

Medicated Shampoo: There are many medicated shampoos designed specially to treat scalp psoriasis. It contains many effective ingredients, like coal tar, that help reduce itching and get rid of the whitish scale caused by scalp psoriasis. However, it is recommended to use it as directed on the cover.

Oatmeal: Oatmeal has great properties to treat dry plaques and soothe irritated skin. Mix oatmeal with water and rinse the head during the bath, ensuring the scalp gets thoroughly soaked. Follow the process regularly for a better result.

Yogurt: Yoghurt contains probiotics and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help in treating itching and inflammation from scalp psoriasis. Apply plain, unsweetened yogurt to the scalp and rinse it in water after 30 minutes.

Results from these home remedies may differ from person to person, and it’s always best to consult a dermatologist and follow their guide.

How to cure scalp psoriasis permanently

Scalp psoriasis can’t be cured immediately and will take its own time. However, consistency in following the dermatologist’s guidance and patience are the keys to permanently overcoming this disrupting condition.

What is the best treatment for psoriasis of the scalp?

Treatments for Scalp Psoriasis:

Phototherapy: This treatment is supervised carefully by dermatologists, who make affected areas of the patients exposed to an ultraviolet laser. This treatment is mostly preferred for scalp psoriasis, with higher success rates.

Ointments: Dermatologists prescribe various ointments with effective ingredients of coal tar, salicylic acid, and vitamin C analogs to treat scalp psoriasis.

How Xemsis helps to cure your scalp psoriasis

Xemsis: Well researched and formulated with many natural ingredients, Xemsis is a specially designed ointment for all types of psoriasis with rich moisturizing properties and is the leading ointment prescribed by many dermatologists to protect the skin and cure scalp psoriasis.