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With its trademark scaly patches, psoriasis is one of the most painful medical conditions a person can experience in their lifetime.
What is Psoriasis
The disease is a chronic auto-immune disorder that causes skin cells to grow at an accelerated pace. Plaque psoriasis, the most common form of the condition, results in scaly patches across the skin due to the violent outgrowth of cells. These patches appear throughout the body, most commonly on the elbows, knees, and scalp. The skin is often sore as it itches and burns. Bleeding may occur. The rash comes and goes in cycles of weeks to months, and there can be long stretches between cycles. No known cure exists.
What causes psoriasis isn’t precisely understood by medical practitioners. Luckily, the disease isn’t contagious, so you don’t have to worry about affecting others with a flareup. It is, however, thought to be genetic. Additionally, there are a variety of environmental triggers known to set off the condition. As psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder, other infections such as strep will often begin a new cycle. Cold, dry weather is a frequent cause of recurrence. Injuries to the skin like cuts or sunburns trigger the condition. Tobacco and alcohol use affect psoriasis. Medicines such as lithium or high blood pressure drugs also cause episodes.
The auto-immune disorder often has a number of related medical issues. People with psoriasis are at risk for other illnesses. Psoriatic arthritis, which brings about a swelling and stiffness of joints, can follow. Eye disorders like conjunctivitis, more commonly known as pink eye, often accomp. Type 2 diabetes may develop. Conditions like high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease are risks. Additionally, the stress of dealing with psoriasis frequently leads to depression and low self-esteem.
Scalp Psoriasis
While the condition takes many forms, scalp psoriasis affects roughly half of the 7.5 million people in America struggling with the auto-immune disorder. The flaking on the scalp bears a strong resemblance to dandruff. Itchy scales, the ugly hallmark of the disorder, affect sleep and lead to hair loss due to the itching and infection. However, the hair loss caused is temporary as the condition clears.
Treatments
It’s hard to know what scalp psoriasis treatment may work to heal the disease. Over-the-counter topical treatments are often the first medicines used in treatment of scalp psoriasis. These contain either salicylic acid, an ingredient related to aspirin, to soften scales, or coal tar shampoos to slow growth and ease inflammation. Antihistamine pills, such as Benadryl, Claritin, or Zyrtec are also an over-the-counter option.
Prescription-strength treatment for scalp psoriasis often uses stronger doses of both of the medications. They also include topical steroids, vitamin derivatives, and antimicrobials. These are highly effective, but they require direct treatment to the scalp for 8 weeks or more. Once the psoriasis episode eases, use a coal tar shampoo to prevent recurrence.
For advanced scalp psoriasis treatment, steroid injections into plaque spots ease inflammation. Additionally, phototherapy focuses light on affected areas without damaging healthy skin. Oral medications will also be used under such circumstances. If infection follows, antibiotics treat the problem.
Additionally, support groups provide a positive resource during episodes. As psoriasis is incurable and recurs, a regular emotional support system is a key way to stay emotionally healthy through these moments. Support groups can be found online or in person and are a vital part of treatment
Derma-Solve
There is another strong scalp psoriasis treatment to consider, especially for those who feel like they’ve tried everything. Derma-Solve is a line of products designed to treat psoriasis. Founder Mike Marenick took up the cause after witnessing his mother’s battle with the disorder. For the last decade, Marenick has worked to formulate the most effective treatment for psoriasis. With his line of five innovative products, he’s crafted a strong solution to the problem.
Derma-Solve uses the vitamins, minerals, and proteins in eggs to treat scalp psoriasis along with salicylic acid, a scientifically proven ingredient. There are no fragrances used in the product. “It is safe to be used by children as young as 6, making it an effective option even for little ones. The product can be used on all parts of the body. However, avoid contact with the eyes. Derma-Solve is an FDA-recognized product.
The product isn’t simply a treatment for scalp psoriasis. It also works as an effective treatment for dandruff or dry flaky scalp. The Derma-Solve system also works well on seborrheic dermatitis, a condition that causes inflammation and scaly patches. This skin problem occurs in the oily parts of the body such as the face and chest.
The Products
The Derma-Solve line consists of five different topical products which can be used together to form a system: a cream, body wash, shampoo, conditioner, and stop itch spray. The cream is to be used 3-4 times per day. The body wash should be used in the shower along with the shampoo and conditioner. The stop itch spray serves as a quick fix when an itch erupts. These products used together daily form a full over-the-counter treatment for scalp psoriasis.
In the end, getting scalp psoriasis treatment is key. The condition doesn’t go away, and it will cause trouble throughout your life if you leave it untreated. Fortunately, while psoriasis might be incurable it isn’t untreatable.
Derma-Solve can be purchased as one of many products available at Jude’s Barbershop. At Jude’s Barbershop, a great array of products from classic hair care to look your best to treatments for maladies such as thinning hair are available for purchase. With 26 locations throughout the Michigan area, there are multiple options to find just the right fit for you.
Scalp psoriasis is a problem. But it’s a problem with solutions.
