Is Scalp Psoriasis Common and Who Is Affected by Scalp Psoriasis?
In the US, 7.5 million people suffer from psoriasis. Most psoriasis sufferers experience at least one scalp psoriasis flare, and 80% to 90% of those have plaque psoriasis. About half of those have scalp psoriasis at any given time.
On your scalp and the skin around your scalp, thick, rough, scaly, dry, discolored plaques can form due to scalp psoriasis. The plaques may itch or hurt. Scratching the plaques on your scalp could make your scalp psoriasis worse and result in hair loss (alopecia).
The way other people look at you may frighten you if you have scalp psoriasis. It may also have an impact on your actions and self-concept. You might feel self-conscious or stressed out, anxious, or depressed.
Psoriasis of the scalp can affect anyone. However, your chances increase if any of the following apply to you:
- Drink excess alcohol.
- Experiencing depression or stress.
- Obesity [1].
- Use tobacco or smoke a cigarette.
- Take your drugs infrequently.
- Have additional autoimmune conditions.