Shampoo in the Treatment of Scalp Psoriasis
January 2012
in “
Human health handbooks
”
Studysummary This review discusses various topical treatments for scalp psoriasis, noting the preference for shampoos among patients, but highlights that no single treatment consistently excels across all clinical situations.
Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer
The document discussed the challenges and treatment options for scalp psoriasis, a condition affecting 50–75% of psoriasis patients, characterized by erythematosquamous lesions and silver-white scaling. Scalp psoriasis was noted to impair quality of life and cause psychological distress. Despite numerous therapies, treatment remained difficult due to the scalp's inaccessibility and the unpleasantness of topical applications. Shampoos, containing keratolytics, tars, and corticosteroids, were highlighted as safe, well-tolerated, and effective, with clobetasol propionate shampoo and tar-blend shampoos being preferred for induction and maintenance therapy, respectively. Treatment needed to be individualized as no single preparation was superior in all situations.
