### Tips for Managing Scalp Psoriasis Managing scalp psoriasis can be challenging, but with the right tips and tricks, you can make it more manageable. Here are some suggestions: 1. **Limit Hair Washing**: Try to limit how often you wash your hair. Washing too frequently can dry out your scalp. Aim for every 2-3 days unless you get hot and sweaty. 2. **Be Gentle**: When you shampoo, be gentle. Avoid rubbing, scrubbing, and scratching, as these can worsen psoriasis. 3. **Choose the Right Products**: Use shampoos and conditioners with few ingredients. Unscented products can be helpful, but remember that they may still contain chemicals. Over-the-counter medicated shampoos can relieve mild symptoms and help remove scales. Leave the medicated shampoo on your scalp for 2-3 minutes, at least twice a week. 4. **Alternate Shampoos**: If medicated shampoos dry out your skin, alternate them with non-medicated shampoos. 5. **Avoid Heat Tools**: Heat tools like blow dryers and curling irons can dry out your scalp. Try to air-dry your hair when possible. 6. **Consider Your Haircut**: The right haircut can help manage psoriasis. Shoulder-length hair can hide plaques on your neck and behind your ears. 7. **Topical Treatments**: Look for products with salicylic acid or coal tar. These ingredients can help soften thick patches and scales. Topical steroids and prescription topicals can also be effective during active flares. 8. **Wet Towels and Phototherapy**: Using wet towels (cold or hot) can provide temporary relief. Phototherapy with UV light can slow skin cell growth and help with symptoms. 9. **Oral Treatments and Biologics**: If other treatments aren't effective, your doctor may recommend oral medications or biologics that target specific immune cells. 10. **Avoid Scratching**: Try to keep your hands off your scalp and keep your fingernails short to avoid irritation. 11. **Be Patient**: Finding the right mix of treatments may take time and trial and error. Stay flexible and patient. By following these tips, you can better manage your scalp psoriasis and improve your quality of life.