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If your scalp psoriasis is mild and the flaking and itching are your main concerns, an over-the-counter shampoo from the pharmacy can help with daily management. However, if you have thick plaques or significant inflammation, you'll likely need medical evaluation because a prescription corticosteroid lotion or solution may be necessary.
Which over-the-counter shampoos help with scalp psoriasis?
In pharmacies you can find over-the-counter shampoos with lower concentrations of coal tar and some with salicylic acid, which are often used to reduce flaking and relieve itching in mild outbreaks.
Salicylic acid also helps loosen scales, which can allow other topical treatments to work more effectively. If you wash your hair frequently, choosing a gentle, daily shampoo may be less irritating to your scalp than harsher products. However, the goal of shampoo is not to "cure" psoriasis, but rather to manage symptoms and keep plaques thinner and more manageable.
| Option | What does it usually help with? | When might it not be enough? |
|---|---|---|
| Shampoo with coal tar | Itching and scaling in mild outbreaks | Very thick plaques or severe inflammation |
| Shampoo with salicylic acid | Remove scales and smooth plaques | Pain, cracks, lots of redness |
| Gentle shampoo for frequent use | Less likely to cause irritation if you need to wash often | If thick plaques or severe itching persist despite care |
When are prescription corticosteroid lotions used?
When the outbreak is more intense or does not improve with over-the-counter treatments, it is advisable to consult a doctor because they may consider prescription treatments, such as topical corticosteroids in lotion or scalp solution.
These treatments can reduce redness and inflammation when shampoo alone is not enough. One example is clobetasol in scalp formulations, such as Clobex, which in Spain is a prescription-only medicine. Because it is a very potent topical corticosteroid, it is usually saved for moderate flare-ups or harder-to-control cases and used according to a clinicianโs plan, often for limited periods.
Also check if significant pain, oozing, yellowish crusts appear, or if the lesions spread, as this may indicate intense irritation or other problems that require adjusting the treatment. For any specific instructions, consult the official leaflet and follow the directions of your pharmacist or doctor, who are the ones who should confirm the appropriate product and how to use it.
