If you’re dealing with psoriasis on your scalp and noticing more hair in your brush or shower drain, you’re likely asking a very common question. The sight can be worrying, but it’s important to know you’re not alone in this experience. The connection between the two conditions is real, but it’s also often misunderstood.
How Scalp Psoriasis Can Lead to Hair Loss
Psoriasis itself doesn’t directly attack hair follicles to cause permanent hair loss. Instead, the hair loss is usually a side effect of the psoriasis symptoms. The intense inflammation, thick scaling, and relentless itching characteristic of a flare-up create a harsh environment for your hair follicles. When you scratch to relieve the itch, you can accidentally pull out hair or damage the follicle. Furthermore, the process of gently removing thick scales can sometimes take hair with it. The good news is that this type of hair loss is typically temporary.
Caring for Your Scalp and Hair During a Flare-Up
Managing your scalp psoriasis effectively is the most powerful step you can take to encourage hair regrowth. Be extra gentle when washing and brushing your hair to avoid further irritation. Using a medicated shampoo designed for psoriasis, often containing ingredients like salicylic acid or coal tar, can help soften and remove scales without aggressive scrubbing. When your scalp is inflamed, opt for loose hairstyles that don’t pull on the roots, and try to resist the urge to scratch, as difficult as that may be.
When to Talk to a Doctor About Your Hair Loss
If you’re experiencing significant hair loss, it’s a good idea to speak with a dermatologist. They can confirm that psoriasis is the primary cause and rule out other potential issues. A doctor can also provide you with stronger, prescription-strength treatments like topical corticosteroids or vitamin D analogs that can calm the inflammation more effectively. Once the psoriasis flare is under control and the scalp has a chance to heal, hair usually begins to grow back on its own.
Seeing hair loss can be distressing, but it’s comforting to know that it’s often a temporary situation. By focusing on a consistent and gentle treatment plan for your scalp psoriasis, you create the ideal conditions for your hair to recover and return to its normal growth cycle.