• Published on: Jan 05, 2024
  • 2 minute read
  • By: Secondmedic Expert

Home Remedies For Scalp Psoriasis

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Dealing with scalp psoriasis can be tough, making you feel uncomfortable and affecting your daily life. While there's no total cure, there are simple things you can do at home to make it better. In this guide, we'll share easy tips to help you ease the discomfort of scalp psoriasis right at home, where you feel most comfortable.

Understanding Scalp Psoriasis:

Scalp psoriasis is a long-lasting skin problem where your skin cells grow too fast, making red, itchy, and scaly patches on your scalp. It happens because your immune system is working too hard, causing your skin to react and disrupt its usual growth pattern.

Taking Care of Your Scalp:

To keep your scalp happy when dealing with psoriasis, it's all about being gentle. Start by using a mild shampoo made for sensitive skin – no strong smells, just something soft. Stay away from harsh chemicals and don't scrub too hard, as that can make things worse. When washing your hair, go for lukewarm water instead of hot water. Hot water can take away the good oils from your scalp, making it dry and more likely to feel irritated. So, be kind to your scalp, and it will thank you.

Moisturize Regularly:

Make sure to keep your scalp well-hydrated to help manage psoriasis symptoms. You can use a gentle moisturizer that's safe for sensitive skin or go for natural oils like coconut or olive oil. Just put a bit on the areas that need it and let it sit for at least 15 minutes before washing it off. Doing this regularly helps calm your skin and stops it from itching so much.

Gentle Shampoos with Salicylic Acid:

Salicylic acid is like a superhero for your scalp! It helps get rid of those annoying scales and calms down any redness. Shampoos that have salicylic acid are your buddies in this fight against scalp issues. Just remember, use them wisely – don't go overboard, or your scalp might get too dry. Follow the instructions on the bottle, and you'll see good results.

Tar Shampoos:

Tar shampoos are helpful for scalp psoriasis. They work by slowing down skin cell growth, easing redness, and stopping itching. Use tar shampoo regularly, as advised. Be careful, though—tar can stain clothes, so be cautious when putting it on.

Aloe Vera Gel:

Aloe vera is like a calm friend for your scalp. It's really good at making the itchiness and redness from psoriasis feel better. Just put a little bit of aloe vera gel right on the red spots and let it stay there for about 30 minutes. Then wash it off. Aloe vera is like a nice drink of water for your scalp and helps it feel less dry and irritated.

Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse:

Ever tried apple cider vinegar for your scalp? It's like a superhero for your hair! Mix it with water, half and half (that's equal parts), and use it as the last rinse after shampooing. This magical mix fights germs and brings your scalp's pH balance back to normal. The result? Say goodbye to itching, and hello to a happy, healthy scalp.

Take Care of Your Stress:

Stress can make your scalp psoriasis worse. Try doing things that help you relax, like taking slow, deep breaths, meditating, or doing yoga. Adding these activities to your daily routine can make you feel better overall and might lessen the effect of stress on your scalp.

Eating Right and Taking Care:

Think about having a good mix of foods that help your body feel better. Eat things like fruits, veggies, and foods with omega-3 fatty acids. Also, try to stay away from smoking and don't have too much alcohol because these things can make your scalp psoriasis act up. It's like giving your body the right fuel to stay healthy,

Taking care of scalp psoriasis at home means doing a few different things to help yourself feel better. It's like putting together a puzzle with three pieces: being gentle, staying clean, and using the right products. You have to be patient and keep doing these things regularly. If your symptoms don't get better or get worse, it's super important to consult a specialist for advice and maybe some special medicine. 

Book a consultation now to make sure you're on the right track.

Read FAQs


A. While there's no instant cure, certain treatments may provide quick relief. Topical steroids, moisturizers, and phototherapy are common options. Consult a dermatologist for personalized advice based on your specific condition.

A. Water is essential for overall skin health, including psoriasis management. Additionally, green tea's anti-inflammatory properties may offer benefits. However, consult your healthcare provider for a tailored diet plan.

A. While prevention is challenging, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help manage psoriasis risk. Prioritize stress reduction, adopt a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, and avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. Regular check-ups with a healthcare professional are crucial for early detection and management.

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UV index and skin protection

Understanding UV Index and Skin Protection: A Complete Guide

Sunlight is essential for our health. It helps our body make vitamin D and can improve our mood. But too much sun exposure can be harmful, especially for our skin. Have you ever heard of the "UV index"? It's a helpful tool that tells us how strong the sun’s rays are and how we can protect our skin. In this blog, we'll explain what the UV index is, why it matters, and how you can protect your skin every day.

 

What is the UV Index?

The UV index is a scale that measures the strength of ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. UV rays are invisible rays that come from the sun and can damage our skin, eyes, and even our immune system. The higher the UV index, the stronger the UV rays—and the greater the risk of skin damage.

The index ranges from 0 to 11+:

UV Index

Risk Level

Sun Protection Advice

0-2

Low

Minimal risk. Safe to be outside.

3-5

Moderate

Use sunscreen and wear sunglasses.

6-7

High

Stay in shade, wear protective clothing.

8-10

Very High

Avoid going out in peak sun hours.

11+

Extreme

Stay indoors if possible. Use full protection.

 

Why UV Rays Are Harmful

There are two main types of UV rays that reach the earth:

  1. UVA Rays: These rays can cause skin aging and wrinkles.
     

  2. UVB Rays: These rays can lead to sunburn and skin cancer.
     

Both UVA and UVB rays can damage skin cells. Over time, repeated exposure increases the risk of:

  • Skin cancer, including melanoma (the most dangerous type)
     

  • Sunburn
     

  • Dark spots and uneven skin tone
     

  • Premature aging (wrinkles, fine lines)
     

  • Eye problems like cataracts
     

 

How to Check the UV Index

You can check the UV index easily using:

  • Weather apps (like AccuWeather or the Weather Channel)
     

  • Google search (“UV index today” + your location)
     

  • Smartphones with built-in weather widgets
     

  • Local news websites or TV weather reports
     

It’s best to check the UV index every morning, especially if you plan to spend time outdoors.

 

Best Times to Avoid the Sun

UV rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. During this time, even on cloudy days, your skin can get damaged. Plan your outdoor activities either in the early morning or late afternoon when the sun is not too harsh.

 

Tips for Skin Protection

Here’s how you can protect your skin based on the UV index and your daily routine:

1. Wear Sunscreen Daily

Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. Apply it 15–30 minutes before going out. Reapply every 2 hours, or immediately after swimming or sweating.

Quick tip: Don’t skip sunscreen on cloudy days—the UV rays still reach your skin.

2. Wear Protective Clothing

  • Long-sleeved shirts
     

  • Wide-brimmed hats
     

  • Sunglasses with UV protection
     

  • Light-colored, tightly woven clothes that cover more skin
     

3. Stay in the Shade

When the UV index is high, look for shaded areas like under trees, umbrellas, or buildings. If you’re at the beach or park, carry your own shade (like a sun umbrella).

4. Use UV-Blocking Accessories

Use UV-protective umbrellas, scarves, or even UV-filtering window films if you spend long hours indoors near windows.

5. Stay Hydrated

Exposure to sun can dehydrate your skin. Drink plenty of water and use a moisturizer with SPF to keep your skin healthy.

 

UV Protection for Kids and Babies

Children have delicate skin that can burn easily. Here’s how to keep them safe:

  • Keep babies under 6 months out of direct sunlight.
     

  • Dress them in light cotton clothes with full coverage.
     

  • Use baby-safe sunscreen for kids older than 6 months.
     

  • Make wearing hats and sunglasses a daily habit.
     

 

Common Myths About UV and Sun Protection

Myth 1: I only need sunscreen in summer.
Truth: UV rays are present all year—even in winter.

Myth 2: Dark skin doesn’t get sunburned.
Truth: While melanin offers some protection, dark skin can still get sunburned and is also at risk of skin cancer.

Myth 3: I’m safe if I sit behind a window.
Truth: UVA rays can pass through glass. You can still get sun damage indoors near windows.

 

How Often Should You Apply Sunscreen?

Most people don’t apply enough sunscreen or forget to reapply. Here’s a guide:

  • Use at least a shot glass full of sunscreen for the body and a nickel-sized amount for the face.
     

  • Reapply every 2 hours if you're outdoors.
     

  • Reapply after swimming, sweating, or towel drying.
     

 

Foods That Help Skin Fight UV Damage

Eating the right foods can help your skin protect and repair itself:

  • Tomatoes: Contain lycopene, which helps fight UV damage.
     

  • Carrots and sweet potatoes: Rich in beta-carotene.
     

  • Green tea: Contains antioxidants that reduce skin damage.
     

  • Fatty fish (like salmon): Omega-3s help repair skin.
     

  • Leafy greens: Full of vitamins A, C, and E.
     

 

When to See a Doctor

If you notice:

  • A new mole or skin spot
     

  • A mole that’s changing in shape, color, or size
     

  • Persistent itching or bleeding from a skin spot
     

Visit a dermatologist. Early detection is key in preventing skin cancer.

 

Conclusion

Understanding the UV index and skin protection is a vital part of staying healthy in today’s climate. With rising temperatures and more time spent outdoors, your skin needs daily care. Always check the UV index before leaving home, apply sunscreen regularly, and wear protective clothing. By following these simple habits, you can enjoy the sun safely without damaging your skin.

To stay proactive, men and women can take different skin health tests tailored to their needs. Whether it's checking for vitamin levels, hormone balance, or overall skin resilience, these tests can guide better skin protection strategies.

Protect your skin every day by keeping an eye on the UV index and skin protection—it’s your first step toward healthy, glowing skin.

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