Psoriasis of the scalp is an unfortunate hereditary skin condition, that affects millions of people across the world. This type of skin condition affects people of all races, sex and age in equal measure. When you have scalp psoriasis you will usually experience itchy red patches that flake off quite easily. This type of psoriasis can become very severe and sometimes this can lead to it covering the entire scalp.

However, in most cases the flaky areas of skin will be present at the hairline and around the ears. The nape of the neck is also a common place for the symptoms of scalp psoriasis.

People that have psoriasis of the scalp will most likely have psoriasis symptoms on other parts of their body also. It is easy to confuse symptoms of scalp psoriasis with symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis. Both conditions produce severe scaling and flaking of the scalp area. However, there are differences in the appearance of the flakes. Seborrheic dermatitis flakes will look yellowish and greasy while psoriasis flakes are powdery and have a silvery sheen to them.

If you have psoriasis of the scalp then you will probably be seeking the best treatment option to get rid of these embarrassing symptoms as fast as possible. You may have to try several different types of treatments until you find the one that works the best for you. It is important that you work closely with your doctor or dermatologist as you search for a great psoriasis treatment.

The most common ingredients found in treatments for scalp psoriasis are tar and salicylic acid. Tar products can be purchased over the counter without a prescription. These products may be in the form of shampoos, gels or creams. Tar treatments are very effective, but they can stain your bedding and produce a strong odor. Products that contain salicylic acid can be purchased over the counter also. Salicylic acid will make the psoriasis scales softer and easier to remove. The negative side effects of this treatment can be skin irritation and hair loss.

Before you begin any treatment for your psoriasis of the scalp it is important that you remove as many loose scales as possible. This will allow the treatment to get to the psoriasis lesions. You can soak  your scalp in warm water to help plump up the scales for easier removal. Applying a lubricant or moisturizing cream to the scalp can help also. Once the scales have been softened it is important that you gently comb through your hair to remove them. Do not vigorously brush your scalp because this can cause breaks in the skin that can lead to infection.

Scalp psoriasis can be an embarrassing problem. But there are a lot of great treatment options available that can cure your psoriasis in no time. It is critical that you start treatment at the first sign of psoriasis of the scalp.