What should you know about Boots psoriasis scalp?

Scalp psoriasis is an inflammatory skin condition that can extend beyond the hairline or affect the ears and neck. Raised areas may have silvery scale, redness, soreness, itching, or cracking. Scratching and forcefully lifting scale can irritate the skin and may cause bleeding. It is not caused by poor hygiene and it is not contagious.

Dandruff, eczema, contact dermatitis, and fungal infection can look similar. A clinician can examine the scalp and ask about onset, triggers, nail changes, and symptoms elsewhere on the body. Psoriasis commonly presents with itch and scale, but the appearance alone does not establish the diagnosis.

Use prescribed scalp treatments exactly as directed; some are designed to loosen scale, while others calm inflammation. Apply products to the scalp rather than only coating the hair, and ask how long they should remain in place. A gentle shampoo and lukewarm water may reduce irritation. Avoid picking plaques, tight hairstyles, harsh dyes, and vigorous brushing during a flare.

Keep a note of products that worsen burning or redness. If treatment is difficult to apply through dense hair, ask about a lotion, foam, gel, or another formulation.

Arrange medical review when scalp inflammation is persistent, spreading, painful, wet, crusted, or associated with noticeable hair shedding. Seek prompt advice for eye involvement, fever, pus, or rapidly worsening redness. A scalp rash that begins after a new dye or product may need assessment for contact allergy.

Could this be psoriasis or another scalp condition? Which product should loosen scale, and which should reduce inflammation? How should I apply it around the hairline? Should my nails, ears, or joints be checked? What should I do during a flare?