Psoriasis and shaving your head

With less hair, medicine and moisturiser may be easier to place on the scalp. Shaving can also expose plaques, flakes, and areas of [Skin Redness](/symptoms/skin-redness/). A close shave may irritate active plaques, create small cuts, or worsen [Itchy Skin](/symptoms/itchy-skin/). Hair itself is not the cause of psoriasis, and cutting it does not remove the underlying inflammation.

Wait until open, bleeding, or very tender areas have settled if possible. Use clean equipment, soften the hair first, and avoid pressing repeatedly over plaques. An electric trimmer with a guard may cause less contact than a close razor shave. Rinse gently, pat dry, and apply the scalp treatment recommended for you. Avoid fragranced aftershave and harsh exfoliation. Do not share razors or trimmers, and clean tools after use.

Seek advice if shaving causes spreading redness, increasing warmth, pus, severe pain, or bleeding that does not settle. Arrange review for thick scale, ongoing hair shedding, or plaques extending onto the forehead and ears. A clinician can distinguish psoriasis from infection or another scalp condition and adjust treatment.

Ask whether your scalp is calm enough to shave, which tool is least irritating, how to treat cuts, and whether the hairline needs a different product.