Hair Loss

You have more choices than you think

If you've got scalp psoriasis, you might feel like you're the only one. But you're definitely not alone. At least half the people who live with psoriasis have it on their scalp. And we know that, with scalp psoriasis, you might be dealing with some hair loss. That's tough for anyone—whether you're a man with an already-receding hairline or a woman with long locks. But, here's the good news: most of the time, psoriasis-related hair loss is just temporary; ordinarily, your hair will grow back. In the meantime, here are some ways to take charge, rise above it, and find the solution that's right for you.

Some of the possible culprits:

• Often, hair loss can be caused by treatments for scalp psoriasis. Vigorous and repeated treatments can break hairs or cause hair loss. Ask your doctor about treatments that won't be so hard on your hair.
• Scalp inflammation, as a result of psoriasis, can also cause hair loss. You may need to manage the inflammation with a scalp treatment, but the treatment itself could cause hair loss. We know, it sounds frustrating. What can you do? Talk to you doctor about other choices to manage inflammation, such as tar shampoos, phototherapy, or emollients like petroleum jelly.
• Forcefully removing scales can pull hair from its roots. Remember, be gentle on yourself! A gentle touch can make or break your day when it comes to hair loss. Try using a keratolytic shampoo, which may help loosen scales. Learn more about shampoos.

Some ways for men to cope with hair loss:

For years, men with or without psoriasis have opted for ways to cover thinning hair or bald spots. Here are some great examples:

• Try shaving your head. Taking it off—or getting a buzz cut—not only looks cutting-edge, but the additional sun helps to slow down the reproduction of skin cells. That might mean fewer lesions.
• Wear cool hats. Try a baseball cap, skull cap, or driving cap, or throw on one of your dad's old derbies.

Some ways for women to cope with hair loss:

• Visit your hairdresser and explain your situation. He or she can offer some great choices—perhaps a new, short, sassy cut, or new ways to style, part, or accessorize your hair.
• Hats are always a popular option as well as a fashion statement. Try the one that fits your mood.
• Wear scarves. Try a silk scarf in a beautiful pattern or a solid scarf in comfy cotton. Or even better—choose several and coordinate with what's in your closet. Some of the biggest celebrities are covering up, so why not follow the new fashion?

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