Scalp Psoriasis affects almost 50% of psoriasis patients. Scalp is the most commonplace where psoriasis is seen. Its seen more in children and adults. Itching and hair loss are the common symptoms seen in most patients.

Scalp psoriasis may appear only in the scalp or along with the other parts of the body. Most commonly seen scalp psoriasis is Plaque type scalp Psoriasis and other types such as pustular psoriasis, erythrodermic psoriasis are also can be seen in the scalp as an individual or with combinations.

Psoriasis can only involve the scalp or as a part of the body. In the initial stage, it may be unnoticed or confused with dandruff and it is covered by hairs. In the scalp, the scales build up fast causing thicker plaque, and trapped by the hair it becomes more difficult to treat.

Different Types of Scalp Psoriasis

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Scalp psoriasis extended to the neck

Scalp Psoriasis extended to the forehead

Scalp Psoriasis behind the ear

Scalp Psoriasis allover head

Signs and Symptoms of Scalp Psoriasis

In early-stage scalp psoriasis, it may show slight, fine scaling and in moderate to severe scalp psoriasis include

The red patches are covered in thick silvery-white scales.
Dandruff-like flaking.
Skin flakes that may attach to the hair shaft.
Dry scalp.
Patchy silvery scales or thick crust on the scalp that may bleed when removed.
Patches that may extend beyond hairline (forehead, back of the ear, neck).
Can be extremely itchy (sometimes it isn’t itchy).
Hair loss.

How to differentiate between Scalp Psoriasis and Dandruff?

In the initial stage, it is difficult to differentiate between Scalp Psoriasis and Dandruff. Both are common skin conditions that affect Scalp. These two conditions also share similar symptoms like itchy, red, scaly skin which makes it even harder to differentiate between the two.

Though the two conditions look similar there are some other aspects where they differ from each other. As there are no tests available to diagnose these conditions it can be done only through visual examination of the scalp by the doctor will able to make the diagnosis, In general, the following table will help you to get an idea of the differences between scalp psoriasis and dandruff.