What is scalp psoriasis?
Scalp psoriasis refers to a chronic, noncontagious skin condition that causes raised, thickened, and scaly white or red patches of skin on a person's scalp, forehead, back of the ears, and neck. Sometimes, these scaly patches of skin may crack and bleed.
The exact cause of scalp psoriasis remains unknown, but risk factors may include genetics and conditions like HIV, obesity, smoking, and stress.
While there is currently no cure for scalp psoriasis, some natural remedies can help ease its symptoms.
Aloe Vera
Applying aloe vera topically, which has skin-healing properties, can help reduce redness, itching, and scaling caused by scalp psoriasis.
Use a cream with 0.5 percent aloe vera to relieve your symptoms. You may need to use the cream at least thrice a day for about a month before you see any positive effects. (Related: An ingredient found in a traditional Chinese medicine shown to be effective in treating psoriasis.)
Avocado or coconut or oil
Avocados and coconuts are full of "good" fats that promote healthy skin. Massage a few drops of either type of oil, cool or lightly heated, onto your scalp then put on a shower cap. Wait for about 20 minutes, remove the cap, then wash and rinse your hair as usual.
Avocado or coconut oil can also help minimize and remove some of the scaling caused by scalp psoriasis.
Baking soda
Use baking soda to make a home remedy for an itchy scalp. Take a small glass of water, then stir in a tablespoon of baking soda. Use a cotton pad or washcloth to apply the mixture onto the area of your head that’s affected.
Another option is to pour the baking soda solution onto your head to ease itching and inflammation under your hair.
Fish oil
Omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce redness and swelling caused by scalp psoriasis. Take at least three grams of fish oil daily to address your symptoms.
Other sources of omega-3s include plant-based supplements like flax that can reduce inflammation.
Neem Oil
Neem oil is a natural oil derived from the neem tree. The oil acts as an emollient that helps moisturize dry, cracked skin. If you have scalp psoriasis, neem oil can soothe and minimize the redness caused by your condition.
Neem oil also has natural antibacterial properties that will help address skin infections and reduce reoccurrence. Alternatively, you can use shampoos with neem oil to alleviate your symptoms.
Oatmeal bath
Add about one cup of raw ground, unflavored oats to a warm bath and soak for 15 minutes to reduce the symptoms of scalp psoriasis. Oats can significantly relieve flaking, inflammation, and itching. Keep the affected area fully submerged when bathing for best results.
Tea tree oil
The tea tree plant can help treat inflammatory skin conditions. Tea tree oil functions as an antiseptic, and it can relieve the inflammation and redness linked to scalp psoriasis.
Test the oil on a small patch of skin first to check if you are allergic or sensitive to the oil. The substance may also cause hormone changes in some people.
Turmeric
Turmeric has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. If you have scalp psoriasis, you can reduce symptoms by taking a turmeric supplement daily. Alternatively, you can incorporate more fresh or powdered turmeric into your cooking. Take about 1.5 to three grams of turmeric daily.
If you have scalp psoriasis, try natural cures like aloe vera or tea tree oil to relieve painful symptoms such as inflammation or itching.
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