Understanding Your Clients’ Scalp Psoriasis

posted on: 01/16/2025

By Josephine Granato

Hair psoriasis, a form of psoriasis that affects the scalp, is characterized by red, scaly, and inflamed patches of skin. Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells, resulting in an overproduction of skin cells. When this occurs on the scalp, it can lead to the formation of thick, silvery-white scales that may be accompanied by itching, burning, or general discomfort.

The severity of hair psoriasis can vary significantly. Some individuals experience mild symptoms, such as minor flakes and itching, while others may develop more severe forms, including large, inflamed plaques. In certain cases, the condition may spread beyond the scalp to the forehead, neck, or the area behind the ears.

Hair professionals can play a key role in supporting clients with psoriasis by creating a comfortable, soothing environment, offering appropriate hair and skin care services, and providing valuable advice on managing the condition. Here’s how stylists and barbers can help their clients with hair psoriasis.

Create a Comfortable, Stress-Free Environment

How you take care of your clients with hair psoriasis is important for them wanting to return. Here are two ways to show them you are the right person to help with their issues:

Encourage Relaxation: Psoriasis flare-ups can often be triggered by stress, so creating a calm, relaxing atmosphere is essential. A stylist can use calming music, soothing lighting, and a gentle approach to help the client feel comfortable during their appointment.

Confidentiality and Sensitivity: Be discreet and respectful about the client’s condition, especially since psoriasis can affect sensitive areas like the scalp, face, or body. Ensure the client feels safe discussing their needs without judgment.

Scalp Care for Clients with Psoriasis

While you’ve got them in the chair, make sure you’re offering the most effective treatments and products for this client’s issues.

Gentle shampoo—Use a mild, sulfate-free shampoo to avoid irritation. There are also shampoos designed specifically for scalp psoriasis that contain ingredients like coal tar or salicylic acid, which help soften flakes and reduce inflammation.
Avoiding scratching or irritation—Be mindful not to scratch or irritate the scalp while washing or styling the hair. Using gentle, soft brushes or combs can help avoid further damage or discomfort.
Use soothing products—Consider using nourishing hair products that won’t irritate the scalp, such as aloe vera gel, gentle leave-in conditioners, or scalp treatments designed for sensitive skin.
Avoid hair dyes with harsh chemicals—If the client wants to dye their hair, advise them to avoid products with harsh chemicals like ammonia, peroxide, or alcohol, as they can cause irritation. Suggest patch tests beforehand, especially if the client has sensitive skin.
Hot tools and heat—When using tools like hair dryers, straighteners, or curling irons, it’s important to avoid overheating the scalp or skin. Use low heat settings and keep the tool moving to prevent burns or irritation.
Avoid irritation from chemicals—Be cautious with chemical treatments (e.g., perms, relaxers) or any harsh products that could irritate psoriasis-affected areas. Always conduct patch tests beforehand.

Natural Home Care for Your Client

Sending your clients home with some self-care tools will further cement your place as their hair and scalp advisor. Apple cider vinegar, aloe vera, and turmeric are a few ingredients clients with psoriasis can use to manage symptoms.

Apple cider vinegar—This ingredient can be effective in relieving scalp itch caused by psoriasis. For best results, use organic apple cider vinegar, which is commonly available at most grocery stores. Apply it to your scalp several times a week. If you experience any burning sensation, dilute the vinegar with water in a 1:1 ratio. Additionally, rinsing the scalp after the solution dries can help minimize irritation. Avoid using vinegar if you have open wounds or if your skin is cracked or bleeding.

Aloe vera—Research suggests that aloe vera can be an effective natural remedy for managing psoriasis symptoms, particularly in reducing redness and scaling. Studies have shown that aloe vera has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe irritated skin and promote healing. When using aloe vera, it’s important to do so consistently, as it may take a few weeks to notice improvements in skin appearance and comfort. Additionally, aloe vera may help to hydrate the skin and reduce the itchiness often associated with psoriasis flare-ups. Always perform a patch test before widespread use to ensure there’s no allergic reaction. Aloe vera is a safe, gentle option that can be incorporated into your hair and skin care routine alongside other treatments for psoriasis.

Turmeric—Widely studied for its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, turmeric can be beneficial for managing psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. The active compound in turmeric, curcumin, has been shown to have the ability to alter gene expression. One key finding from research is that turmeric can influence TNF cytokine expression, a process that helps reduce inflammation in the body. This makes it useful in minimizing flares of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis for some people. You can take turmeric in concentrated pill or supplement form for targeted benefits. It's also a common ingredient in many dishes, particularly curries, so incorporating it into your diet could provide additional health benefits. However, it’s important to note that curcumin is not easily absorbed by the body, so it may be more effective when taken with black pepper or fat. As with any supplement, it's always best to consult a health-care provider before adding turmeric to your routine, especially if you’re managing a chronic condition like psoriasis.

By tailoring the salon experience to meet the needs of a client with psoriasis, hair professionals can help their guests feel comfortable, look their best, and manage their condition in a supportive environment. The key is to be sensitive, gentle, and proactive in offering solutions that promote both physical and emotional well-being. As always, refer clients with psoriasis to a dermatologist if their case is severe, or if their condition worsens, to seek advice or treatment options beyond what you and your salon can offer.

Josephine Granato has over 24 years of experience in the beauty industry and has cultivated a deep love for both practicing and teaching the art of cosmetology. In practice, she specializes in makeup, hairstyling, and cutting, and her work as a cosmetology educator, trainer, and administrator has included roles for Empire Beauty Schools and Tricoci University. Whether in the salon or classroom, Granato says she is “dedicated to empowering individuals to discover and express their unique beauty through the art of cosmetology.”

References

• American Academy of Dermatology Association. “What is Psoriasis?”

• Milady Standard Cosmetology, 14th edition

• National Psoriasis Foundation