Psoriasis shampoos contain special ingredients to help reduce the itching, scaling, swelling, and skin discoloration caused by scalp psoriasis. Some shampoos contain one main ingredient, like coal tar, while others may include several.
Specialized scalp psoriasis shampoos, which are relatively easy to use, may help reduce symptoms of scalp psoriasis.
Many varieties of scalp psoriasis shampoo are available over the counter. If you have severe scalp psoriasis, you may be able to get a stronger prescription-strength shampoo from a dermatologist.
These shampoos contain special ingredients that work quickly to reduce the itching, scaling, swelling, and skin discoloration caused by scalp psoriasis. Some shampoos contain one main ingredient, while others may include several. Each main ingredient can help reduce specific scalp psoriasis symptoms.
Washing curly or oily hair with a medicated shampoo, along with once- or twice-daily application of a topical corticosteroid mixed with a product such as an oil-based suspension, lotion, or emollient foam, could help reduce breakage and damage.
Coal tar
Coal tar is a dark, thick liquid that can reduce the itchiness of scalp psoriasis. You may find it helpful to use coal tar shampoo anywhere from once per day to once per week.
The frequency depends on the severity of your psoriasis and the strength of the shampoo. A doctor can advise on how often you should use it.
Coal tar is a powerful ingredient. You should not use coal tar on infants. Avoid direct sunlight after applying coal tar, and avoid using a sunlamp for 72 hours afterward to prevent possible skin damage.
Do not apply coal tar shampoo to parts of your skin that are blistered, raw, or oozing or appear to be infected. Keep coal tar shampoo away from your eyes.
Coconut oil
Coconut oil is not a proven treatment for scalp psoriasis. However, it
Sulfur
Sulfur is an ingredient that can help slough off the scales associated with scalp psoriasis. This can make it easier for other chemicals and moisture to reach your skin and can therefore help reduce symptoms.
When using psoriasis shampoo to remove scales from your scalp, be gentle. Do not rub, scrub, or scratch your scalp, as this can worsen your symptoms.
Clobetasol propionate
Clobetasol propionate can be found in prescription-strength scalp psoriasis shampoos. This ingredient is a topical steroid that can reduce all the symptoms of scalp psoriasis, including redness or discoloration, dryness, and swelling. It can also help you more easily remove some of the scaling from your scalp, face, or neck.
Salicylic acid
Sometimes the scaly buildup of scalp psoriasis can become quite thick. This can make it hard for your scalp psoriasis treatment to be absorbed into your skin and can reduce its effectiveness.
Salicylic acid can soften thick patches of skin, making treatment easier.
Ketoconazole
Shampoos containing ketoconazole are most often used to treat dandruff, another condition that can cause skin flaking on your scalp. It appears to be effective for reducing the inflammation caused by scalp psoriasis and may also help prevent infection.
Blue lagoon algae
Blue lagoon algae is a small plant that grows in seawater in Iceland. According to a
Shampoos containing algae may reduce the redness or discoloration, swelling, and irritation caused by scalp psoriasis.
Zinc pyrithione
Zinc pyrithione is an ingredient commonly found in dandruff shampoos. While it’s considered very effective at treating dandruff, there’s also some evidence that it may effectively treat scalp psoriasis.
To use scalp psoriasis shampoo, squeeze out a quarter-size amount into your hand. Gently rub it into your wet scalp and leave it to sit for 5–10 minutes before rinsing it out.
Be sure not to scrub, scratch, or scrape your scalp as you apply or rinse the shampoo.
While these are good general directions for using scalp psoriasis shampoos, always be sure to follow the use directions on the bottle for best results.
If you’re using a prescription shampoo, consult a doctor about how often you should use it.
Most scalp psoriasis shampoos are safe for everyday use. But daily use may irritate your skin and make it more sensitive to sunlight, increasing your risk of sunburn. If you find that your scalp is getting irritated, reduce your use of these shampoos to 2 days per week.
Some people find that coal tar shampoo leaves their hair and scalp with an unpleasant odor. If you do not like the smell, use your regular shampoo after applying the coal tar, and then use a conditioner.
Psoriasis shampoos can contain a range of active ingredients that can reduce the swelling, discoloration, and scaling associated with the condition.
In addition to improving your skin’s appearance, seeking treatment for your scalp psoriasis can greatly reduce your risk of developing possibly serious complications.
Talk with a dermatologist to determine which scalp psoriasis shampoo or other treatment options may be best for you.