Scalp psoriasis is a condition that affects a large percentage of the American population. Like all of the other forms of psoriasis, scalp psoriasis is caused by an overactive immune system response. While this condition can be difficult to live with, keeping an eye out for the beginning signs of a scalp psoriasis flare helps patients get their symptoms under control sooner rather than later.
Located in Windermere, FL, Dermatology and Skin Cancer Center is committed to providing patients with cutting-edge skin care treatments. For more information about our practice, staff, or any of the procedures we offer, contact us today.
What is Scalp Psoriasis?
Scalp psoriasis is a common immune system disorder of the skin that results in red, scaly patches on the scalp. For individuals who are not affected by this condition, the cells in the upper layer of the scalp are shed from the surface of the skin about once every month. In patients with psoriasis, these cells are shed every 3-6 days. This accelerated rate of cell development causes dead skin cells to pile up on the surface of the skin, creating the skin growths characteristic of psoriasis.
Unfortunately, scalp psoriasis is a chronic condition that affects people to varying degrees. While some individuals are able to easily manage their symptoms, for others psoriasis affects them to a debilitating extent.
What are the Symptoms of Scalp Psoriasis?
Symptoms of psoriasis tend to vary slightly from person to person. Some of the most common of these symptoms include:
- Thick, red patches of skin
- Silvery, white scales
- Itching
- Burning
- Soreness
While hair loss is another common symptom, it is not directly caused by psoriasis. Hair loss is often a result of the excessive itching that psoriasis causes. These symptoms can come and go, and may increase in intensity depending on an individual’s stress levels and exposure to environmental factors.
Scalp psoriasis can often be confused with dandruff. The easiest way to tell the difference between these two scalp conditions is the color of the dander; scalp psoriasis dander is a silvery color, while dandruff is a yellow or whitish color.
If you suspect that you may have scalp psoriasis, the best course of action is to schedule an appointment with an experienced dermatologist. If you’re looking for a licensed professional who can examine your scalp in the Windermere, FL area, contact Dermatology and Skin Cancer today. Either Dr. Jeanette L. Hudgens or Jennifer Brinckerhoff, PA-C can carefully examine your skin and accurately diagnose your scalp condition.
