Scalp Psoriasis
A stubborn form affecting the scalp, hairline and area behind the ears with thick, adherent scale; it often itches and can cause temporary hair shedding.
Clinic and treatment images
Tap to enlargeDo you recognise these signs?
If one or more of these applies to you, we recommend a dermatological assessment.
- Red plaques on the scalp covered by thick, silvery-white, adherent scale
- Clearly bordered involvement along the hairline, the nape and behind the ears
- Intense itch, tightness and temporary hair loss from persistent scratching
- Coarse flakes of scale visibly shedding onto the shoulders and the clothing
Causes and triggers
- The immune-mediated psoriatic process settling on the scalp region
- Genetic susceptibility and a scalp that is easily traumatised by handling
- Stress, harsh shampoos and vigorous combing or scratching that trigger flares
- Cold, dry weather and a seborrhoeic background that can worsen the signs
How we treat it
A scalp-specific, cortisone-free regimen built around descaling lotions and shampoos
Softening and gently lifting thick crusts to improve absorption of treatment
Targeted NB-UVB phototherapy directed at the scalp for persistent involvement
Systemic therapy for widespread or resistant disease, tracked with PASI and DLQI
Why Clinovia?
Psoriasis and eczema are not only a surface problem. We assess the skin barrier, inflammation, nutrition and lifestyle, comorbidities and dermatological treatment together. Evidence-based dermatology remains the backbone; nutrition and lifestyle support that plan.
The Gut–Skin Relationship
We review digestive symptoms, dietary pattern and food-sensitivity history. The link between gut microbiome and inflammatory skin disease is still being researched, so it is addressed alongside — never instead of — dermatological treatment.
Cortisone-Free Protocol
First-line calcineurin and PDE-4 inhibitors, ceramide-based barrier repair and phototherapy instead of steroids; systemic and biologic steps when needed.
Systemic Repair
Vitamin D, zinc, omega-3 and iron levels plus thyroid and insulin resistance are screened, and any deficits found are built into the plan.
Measurable Follow-up
PASI/EASI and DLQI scores are tracked alongside laboratory values; steps that do not deliver a response are removed from the plan.
The two are easily confused. In psoriasis the scale is thicker, silvery and adherent; plaques cross the hairline onto the forehead and behind the ears, often with itch. Simple dandruff flakes are finer and greasier. The distinction is made on examination and treatment is planned accordingly.
Usually not. Hair shedding in scalp psoriasis is mostly a temporary loss caused by scratching and pulling at thick crusts; the hair regrows once the plaques are controlled. For this reason we favour a cortisone-free regimen that gently softens the scale rather than aggressive removal.
Yes. For infant eczema and paediatric psoriasis we use age-appropriate topical stepping, a moisturising routine and, when indicated, paediatric phototherapy dosing.
Our standard protocols are cortisone-free. We work with topical calcineurin inhibitors, PDE-4 inhibitors, ceramide-based barrier repair, NB-UVB phototherapy and biologic agents when needed. Cortisone is considered only for very short, unavoidable situations and with the patient's consent.
Other conditions
Plaque PsoriasisThe most common form of psoriasis; it presents with well-defined, thickened plaques topped by silvery scale on the elbows, knees and trunk, often with itch.
Learn more
Guttate PsoriasisAn abrupt-onset form that often follows a throat infection, marked by numerous small, teardrop-shaped, lightly scaled plaques scattered across the trunk and arms.
Learn more
Nail PsoriasisAffecting finger and toe nails with pitting, discolouration, thickening and separation from the nail bed; it responds slowly and calls for patience and steady care.
Learn more
NB-UVB PhototherapyNarrowband UVB at 311 nm calms inflammation in psoriasis and eczema without cortisone. Sessions run two to three times a week, with a typical course of 20–30 and PASI/EASI tracking.
Learn more
Biologic TreatmentsBiologic drugs selectively block targets such as IL-17 and IL-23 in psoriasis and IL-4/13 in eczema. They are considered in moderate-to-severe, resistant disease after screening.
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Systemic TherapySystemic drugs such as methotrexate, cyclosporine and acitretin are used in widespread or resistant psoriasis and eczema, alongside laboratory and safety monitoring.
Learn more
Let's build the right plan for your skin today
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- Consultation in five languages
- Written treatment plan
- Defterdar, Fethi Çelebi Cd. No:15, 34050 Eyüpsultan/İstanbul, Türkiye
- Mon–Sat: 09:00 – 19:00