Does Scratching Scalp Psoriasis Make It Worse?
It's a common question from people with psoriasis: does scratching make it worse? There is no easy answer, because it depends on the individual. Some people find that scratching provides temporary relief from the itchiness caused by psoriasis, while others find that it exacerbates their symptoms.
If you have psoriasis, you'll need to experiment to see what works for you. If you find that scratching makes your condition worse, try to find other ways to relieve the itchiness, such as using a medicated shampoo or applying a moisturizer.
If you have scalp psoriasis, you know that the itchiness and flakiness can be unbearable. And when you scratch, it only seems to make the problem worse. But is that really true?
It turns out that while scratching may not actually make the psoriasis itself worse, it can certainly lead to more irritation and inflammation in the area. That's because when you scratch, you're actually damaging your skin, which can allow bacteria and other irritants to get in and cause even more inflammation. In other words, scratching may not make the psoriasis worse, but it can make the symptoms worse.
If you can't resist the urge to scratch, there are a few things you can do to help relieve the itchiness and inflammation. First, try applying a moisturizer to the affected area. This will help hydrate your skin and reduce the irritation. Next, try using a medicated cream or ointment specifically designed for psoriasis. These can help soothe the itchiness and reduce the inflammation. Finally, if all else fails, see your doctor. They may be able to prescribe a stronger medication that can help get your symptoms under control.
The short answer is no. When you have scalp psoriasis, you want to do everything possible to avoid scratching your scalp. That's because scratching can irritation and make your psoriasis worse.
Scalp psoriasis is a common skin condition that causes raised, scaly patches on the head. The itch associated with scalp psoriasis can be intense, and it's tempting to scratch. But resist the urge.
Here's why:
- Scratching can irritate the skin. When you scratch your scalp, you can irritate the skin and make the rash worse. In addition, scratching can lead to an infection of the skin.
- Scratching can cause hair loss. If you scratch your scalp hard enough, you can damage your hair follicles. This can lead to temporary — or even permanent — hair loss.
If you have scalp psoriasis, there are several things you can do to avoid scratching. These include:
- Use a soft brush. Instead of scratching your scalp with your nails, try using a soft-bristled brush to remove flakes. You can find these brushes in drugstores or online.
- Apply a cool compress. Place a cold, damp cloth on your scalp for a few minutes. Doing this several times a day can help reduce itching.
- Wear a soft hat or scarf. Covering your head with a soft fabric can help protect your skin from further irritation.
If you're struggling to stop scratching your scalp, see your doctor. They can prescribe medication that will help reduce itching and inflammation.