scalp psoriasis

The hairstylist Delphine Courteille, who herself was subject to scalp psoriasis talks to us about his experience and reveals his good advice for managing crises as well as possible.

“Psoriasis is a chronic (non-contagious) inflammatory disease which, when it affects the scalp, is localized along the forehead, above the neck and behind the ears,” explains Delphine Courteille. It should also be kept in mind that scalp psoriasis affects everyone. Man, woman, young and old, with an oily or dry scalp: we can all be subject to it.

What causes psoriasis?

The causes of psoriasis can be varied. They are sometimes genetic or often linked to an autoimmune disease. But the hairstylist explains to us that other causes can explain theonset of psoriasis. “Stress, fatigue (poor sleep), poor lifestyle (via diet, for example) are aggravating factors that can trigger certain flare-ups”.

What are the symptoms of scalp psoriasis?

“The main symptom is the itching of the scalp and the appearance of red spots covered with scales (dead skin) which can also itch,” explains Delphine Courteille. It can become extremely difficult to resist the urge to scratch.

Are there any foods to avoid when you have scalp psoriasis?

To take care of your scalp and avoid crises, here is a non-exhaustive list of things to avoid:

• alcohol and tobacco
• peppers
• Sugar: cakes, sweets, milk or white chocolate
• Ready meals
• The cold cuts
• Fried or breaded foods
• White pasta, white rice, semolina, white bread

“The disease cannot be cured but it can be treated! A good scalp psoriasis treatment should make it possible to space out crises, sometimes by several months or years. Your doctor or dermatologist can prescribe effective treatments and shampoos for crisis periods. Then, it’s up to you to take over with targeted treatments available in pharmacies. says hairstylist Delphine Courteille.

The right things to do to limit scalp psoriasis attacks

Step 1: Dry your hair naturally or set the hair dryer to cold or lukewarm air so as not to irritate your scalp.

Step 2: Use soft brushes.

Step 3: Avoid tight, tugging hairstyles like braids or ponytails. Also avoid hats, headbands and caps.

Step 4: If you color your hair, postpone your balayage or dye in case of a crisis. Always check that chemicals and dyes do not cause a reaction beforehand (watch out for ammonia), especially if your scalp is sensitized.

Step 5: At the hairdresser, do not hesitate to bring your usual shampoo because a single application of an irritating product can trigger a psoriasis flare. Talk to your hairdresser — hairdressers are often familiar with the problem — and recommend that they reduce the temperature of the hair dryer and avoid blow-drying.

And promote the relaxation techniques to help better support crises and associated itching. Indeed, stress is one of the main causes of seizures.

>>> A huge thank you to the hairstylist Delphine Courteille for her valuable advice.