Hair Loss And Scalp Psoriasis
Psoriasis and alopecia are common skin diseases that affect millions of people worldwide. They both cause hair loss, but they also differ significantly in their causes and treatment options.
Alopecia (hair loss) affects over 40 million Americans. The condition can occur at any age, but it tends to strike women much earlier than men.
Psoriasis is another type of chronic inflammatory disease affecting approximately 2% of the population. It often begins during childhood and can last throughout life. Although psoriasis is considered a genetic disorder, environmental triggers play a role in its development.
Alopecia Areata (Hair Loss)
Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disorder where hair falls out in big, round patches as a result of the immune system attacking hair follicles. When this happens, the hair attached to the follicle falls out. Symptoms can also occur in the nails. Your nails may have pitting or dents, white spots or lines, and rough texture. Alopecia areata often begins in childhood.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, there are several types of alopecia areata:
- alopecia areata
- alopecia totalis (complete baldness of the entire scalp)
- alopecia universalis: (the entire body is hairless)
Not all alopecia results in permanent hair loss. Though the immune system attacks the follicle, it doesn’t necessarily destroy it. That means regrowth is possible.
Our dermatologist-trained staff can treat the condition through hair restoration treatments. One such treatment occurs through corticosteroids injections which suppress the immune system. Topical treatments include Anthralin and Minoxidil, which can help regrow your hair. Because there is no cure for alopecia areata, you may experience more hair loss or sporadic re-growth. Treatment effectiveness depends on how your immune system reacts.
Scalp Psoriasis
Psoriasis comes in many forms. It is an autoimmune skin disorder that causes red, scaly patches on the scalp, elbows, knees, buttocks, back, and other parts of the body.
Scalp psoriasis is psoriasis that appears on the scalp. Scaly, itchy, red patches appear on the scalp’s thicker skin, with hair in the way. Mild scalp psoriasis may look like dandruff, with silvery-white flaking. Unlike dandruff, scalp psoriasis creates a broader silvery sheen on the scalp. Symptoms of severe scalp psoriasis may include dryness, bleeding, itching, a burning sensation, and temporary hair loss. If you have plaque psoriasis, you have a large chance of having a flare-up on your scalp.
Treating scalp psoriasis doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Treatment includes prescription medicine for the scalp, medicated shampoos, injections, and scale softeners.
Learn About Hair Loss And Scalp Psoriasis Treatment In Medina
You don’t have to suffer. Contact us today to schedule your consultation at our facility in Medina. Our expert staff will address your personal needs and help you decide on a treatment plan so you can look your very best!