Hair psoriasis and hair loss: what to know

Psoriasis on the scalp can create raised, inflamed areas covered by scale. Scale itself does not destroy the hair follicle, but forceful picking or scratching can break hairs or pull them out. Irritation from an inflamed scalp may add to shedding. Hair often becomes less dense in patches where the condition is active, and regrowth may follow once the scalp settles. Smooth, sharply defined bald patches, scalp tenderness, pus, or broken hairs can point to another process such as alopecia areata or scalp ringworm. A gradual change at the temples or crown may fit a pattern-hair-loss condition instead.

Use the scalp treatment prescribed for your psoriasis and apply it as directed, giving the medicine time to contact the affected skin. Loosen scale gently after softening it; do not scrape or lift plaques with your nails. Choose a mild cleanser, avoid tight hairstyles and harsh chemical treatments, and handle wet hair carefully. Take occasional photographs in similar lighting so you can describe change at an appointment. A clinician can examine the scalp and decide whether the shedding is related to psoriasis or needs a separate hair-loss evaluation.

Arrange a dermatology review if hair loss is sudden, occurs in distinct bare patches, keeps progressing, or continues despite improving scalp inflammation. Seek prompt care for marked pain, warmth, swelling, drainage, fever, or areas that bleed easily. These features can signal infection or a more active scalp problem. Bring a list of medicines, recent illnesses, major stressors, and hair practices, because each can help separate psoriasis-related shedding from another cause.

Could the scalp inflammation explain my shedding, or do I have signs of another hair-loss condition? Which treatment should loosen the scale safely? Should my hair follicles or scalp be checked more closely?