Font Size
A
A
A

Types of Psoriasis (cont.)

Psoriasis of the Scalp

The scalp may have fine dry scaly skin, or have heavily crusted plaque areas. The plaque can flake off or peel off in crusted clumps. Sometimes psoriasis of the scalp is confused with seborrheic dermatitis. In seborrheic dermatitis, the scales are greasy looking, not dry.



Psoriasis of the scalp. Image courtesy of Hon Pak, MD.

Medicated shampoos are used to loosen the scales from the scalp. Salicylic acid and coal tar are used as active ingredients in psoriasis shampoo. Topical or systemic medications may be used to treat the psoriasis. 



Next: Psoriatic Arthritis »

Printer-Friendly Format  |  Email to a Friend

Women's Health

Find out what women really need.

Are You Depressed? Take the Quiz


Read What Your Physician is Reading on eMedicine

Psoriasis »

Psoriasis is a chronic, noncontagious, multisystem, inflammatory disorder.

Read More on eMedicine »

Medical Dictionary