Treatment for scalp psoriasis often involves medicated shampoos.
These shampoos may contain ingredients like salicylic acid, coal tar, or clobetasol propionate.
Some of these products are available over the counter; others require a prescription.
Illustration by Mira Norian for Verywell Health
Finding the rightscalp psoriasisshampoo can help you manage the condition and prevent complications.
Illustration by Mira Norian for Verywell Health
What Is Scalp Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a chronic, inflammatory condition affecting the skin.
Symptoms of Scalp Psoriasis
Scalppsoriasis symptomsinclude:
There are manytypes of psoriasis.
Scalp psoriasis is a form ofplaque psoriasisresulting in raised patches of thick skin called plaques.
Shampoos help solve that problem by making it easy to use topical medications through a cleaning agent.
Different ingredients in shampoos work to target scalp psoriasis symptoms.
Some ingredients soften scales, making them easier to remove, while others help reduce itching.
Types of Scalp Psoriasis Shampoo
Both OTC and prescription scalp psoriasis shampoos are available.
The right one for you depends on the severity of your condition.
There are some key ingredients to look for when choosing a psoriasis shampoo.
Adermatologist(a healthcare provider specializing in skin conditions) can help you determine which is best for you.
Salicylic acid is a first-line therapy for scalp psoriasis.
Coal Tar
Coal taris derived from coal.
Coal tar also causesphotosensitivity(increased sensitivity to UV radiation).
This usually lasts for as long as the medication is active, up to 24 hours.
Be extra careful in the sun when using this medication.
Corticosteroids are the most prescribed treatment for psoriasis.
Does Natural Shampoo for Scalp Psoriasis Work?
Instead of medications, some shampoos contain natural ingredients to combat psoriasis.
However, these are often not effective enough to be used alone.
More frequently, they are used alongside standard medical care.
A healthcare provider will help you determine which treatment is best.
Because scalp psoriasis can be stubborn, seek medical guidance.
This can reduce the time it takes to find effective treatment.
They can also ensure that you have an appropriate diagnosis.
The list includes:
You should always consult a healthcare provider before starting any new psoriasis treatment product.
When Will You See Results?
How long treatment takes to work depends on the severity of your psoriasis.
For mild scalp psoriasis, you may see immediate results from a medicated shampoo.
Side Effects and Safety
Most of the medications in psoriasis shampoos are safe.
However, as with all medicines, there are risks and potential side effects.
A dermatologist can help you determine what next steps are appropriate.
Medicated shampoos that target scalp psoriasis may help.
Blakely K, Gooderham M.Management of scalp psoriasis: current perspectives.Psoriasis (Auckl).
2016;6:33-40. doi:10.2147/PTT.S85330
American Academy of Dermatology Association.Scalp psoriasis: symptoms.
American Academy of Dermatology Association.Scalp psoriasis: Diagnosis and treatment.
American Academy of Dermatology Association.Scalp psoriasis: Shampoos, scale softeners, and other treatments.
National Library of Medicine.Salicylic acid topical.
National Psoriasis Foundation.Over-the-counter topicals.
National Library of Medicine.Clobetasol topical.
National Psoriasis Foundation.Integrative approaches to care.
