PSORIASIS
Psoriasis is defined as a growth abnormality of the epidermis caused by a disorder of keratinocyte activity.
Counted among the Auto-Immune problems, it presents with inflamed-reddened areas covered with white-greyish scales
Psoriasis is a scalp problem that does not generally lead to hair loss because it does not involve the hair follicles.
Tends to be often confused with seborrhoeic dermatitis due to a number of common manifestations including irritation, skin reddening and flaking with horny scales (superficial layer of the skin), but is characterised by little or no sebum and intense dehydration of the skin due to inflammation.
The causes of psoriasis are not yet well known. It has been pointed out that members of the same family can often manifest it at particular times in their lives, thus denoting a hereditary component.
It has a chronic relapsing course: it alternates between periods of acute manifestation and periods of remission or even disappearance.
Triggers can be:
- Trauma: accidents, fractures, surgery, shock
- Corticosteroids: the use of cortisone drugs canШ trigger the psorisic manifestation
- Intense and prolonged stress
- Medications: beta blockers, lithium, antimalarials
It is counted among the psycho-somatic dermatological diseases, i.e. those that translate psychological discomforts onto the body.
Itching of the scalp is not always present.
When it occurs, it is mild, except in severe cases when it can turn into an intense sensation of pain in the hair.
It can occur at any age and has the same incidence in both men and women.
The horny plaques or dandruff-like scales can be very varied in both thickness and extent and come off easily.
Underneath, the skin is inflamed and bright red.
Psoriasis manifests itself in a more acute form during the winter period, probably due to the cold weather attacking the skin.
During the summer period, it tends to recede due to both sun exposure, which favours the metabolic transformation of vitamin D, and the climate-related improvement in mood and an increase in serotonin (happiness hormone) levels.
The typical signs of scalp psoriasis are reddish patches covered by compact accumulations of silvery-white scales. In the more severe forms, these manifestations extend to the entire scalp ('cap' or 'helmet' psoriasis) and only rarely reach and go beyond the insertion margin of the hair.
Psoriasis rarely causes hair loss and hair loss, as the hair bulb and hair matrix are located deeper in the skin and are not affected by the problem, which affects the superficial layer of the scalp.
Contacting a qualified professional is always the best choice when dealing with concerns related to the health of your skin and hair. Whether you are uncertain about the nature of any abnormalities or simply want confirmation, an expert can make all the difference. A timely and accurate diagnosis is a crucial step for the well-being of your skin and hair, providing you with peace of mind and an appropriate treatment plan.
