If you’re dealing with the persistent itching, flaking, and redness of scalp psoriasis, you might have noticed more hair in your brush or shower drain. This can be a worrying experience, leading to the pressing question: is my scalp psoriasis causing my hair to fall out?
The short answer is yes, scalp psoriasis can lead to temporary hair loss. However, it’s important to know that this hair loss is usually not permanent. The good news is that by managing the underlying inflammation and treating the psoriasis itself, your hair has a strong chance of growing back.
Why Scalp Psoriasis Affects Your Hair
Hair loss from scalp psoriasis isn’t a direct result of the condition attacking your hair follicles. Instead, it happens for a few key reasons. The intense inflammation that characterizes psoriasis can disrupt the natural growth cycle of your hair, pushing more hairs into the shedding phase. Furthermore, the thick, scaly plaques that form can physically stress the hair follicle. The act of frequent, vigorous scratching to relieve itching or picking at scales can also weaken hair shafts and cause them to break or fall out.
Caring for Your Scalp and Hair Gently
Managing your scalp psoriasis effectively is the most important step toward reducing hair loss and encouraging regrowth. Be gentle with your hair. When you wash, use your fingertips to massage medicated shampoos into your scalp instead of your nails. Try to avoid scratching, as difficult as it may be, as this only creates more inflammation and damage. When dealing with thick scales, ask your doctor about safe ways to loosen them, such as using oil-based treatments overnight before washing.
When to Talk to a Doctor or Dermatologist
If you are experiencing significant hair loss, it’s a good idea to speak with a healthcare professional. They can confirm that psoriasis is the cause and rule out other potential issues. A dermatologist can provide you with stronger prescription treatments, such as topical steroids or vitamin D analogs, that are much more effective at calming inflammation and clearing plaques than over-the-counter options. Getting the inflammation under control is the fastest path to a healthier scalp and the return of your hair.
Seeing hair loss can be distressing, but remember that with proper and consistent treatment for your scalp psoriasis, the situation is often temporary. By focusing on calming the inflammation and treating your scalp with care, you can create the ideal environment for your hair to recover and thrive once again.