What are the treatments for psoriasis of the scalp?

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Psoriasis is a persistent, sometimes painful skin condition where cells to collect at an accelerate rate on the surface of the skin. This causes the skin to become dry and itchy, develop red patches and form thick, silvery scales. According to the National Psoriasis Foundation more than 50 percent psoriasis cases develop on the scalp.

Topical Treatments

Creams and ointments are effective treatments for mild to moderate cases of psoriasis. These include corticosteroids, salicylic acid, calcipotriene (Dovonex), anthralin (Dritho-Scalp) and tazorac, (Avage). There are also coal tar medicated shampoos (Doak Tar, Ionil T) that can help reduce scaling.

Light Therapy

Natural or artificial light therapy, including ultraviolet A (UVA) or ultraviolet B (UVB) light can help retard cell turnover and diminish scaling and inflammation.

Excimer Light Therapy

Excimer light therapy points UVB light directly onto the infected areas of the skin to eliminate redness and scaling.

Medications

When psoriasis is severe, your doctor may prescribe a brief round of medications. Methotrexate and cyclosporine may be taken orally or injected.

Immunomodulators

These medications are typically administered intravenously. Alefacept (Amevive), etanercept (Enbrel) and infliximab (Remicade) are reserved for moderate to severe cases psoriasis.

Source:

Mayo Clinic: Psoriasis

Psoriasis.org: Treatment

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What are the treatments for psoriasis of the scalp?

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