Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that causes skin cells to develop more quickly than they should. Excessive skin cell development results in red, itchy, and scaly skin.

There are numerous forms of psoriasis, and the intensity, location, and size of the affected regions varies from person to person. Therefore, your psoriasis is unique to you, and you require the services of a dermatologist who will collaborate with you to determine the best treatment options. Still, how can you know if your new dermatologist is good for you?

1. They're Board-Certified

This may sound apparent, but you want the greatest dermatologist possible. There are numerous organizations that can certify a dermatologist. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) has confidence in dermatologists accredited by the following three organizations:

- American Board of Dermatology

- American Osteopathic Board of Dermatology

- The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada

2. They Fit Your Insurance (and Your Budget)

Your insurance company may restrict the dermatologists and treatments you can seek. Even if you have a flexible insurance plan, you may end yourself footing some of the expenses for your dermatologist visits.

3. They Have Experience With Psoriasis

Most dermatologists are familiar with the symptoms of psoriasis. Each instance, however, is unique. A dermatologist with psoriasis experience can advise you on your unique symptoms and treatment options.

4. They're Flexible With Treatments

Because psoriasis is so diverse, there are numerous therapy choices. A dermatologist who has treated psoriasis will be familiar with these therapies and can educate you on them.

Assume your dermatologist prescribes a treatment regimen with little flexibility or thought. In that situation, you may be overlooking a viable therapeutic alternative.

5. Their Practice Fits Your Lifestyle

Making time for and getting to appointments are only two of the many obstacles to seeking assistance. Consider the following while looking for a dermatologist to treat your psoriasis:

- Is their office location convenient to your house or workplace?

- Do their regular hours work with your schedule? If not, are you able to book appointments in the evenings or on weekends?

- What are their procedures for cancellation and rescheduling?

- Do they offer telemedicine, phone, or other virtual appointment options?

- How often and how long are the appointments? Will you have to take time off work for any treatments?

6. They Listen to You

It is critical to choose a doctor who will listen to you. Psoriasis can develop into a number of chronic disorders, such as psoriatic arthritis, type 2 diabetes, and other autoimmune diseases. When you have psoriasis concerns, you want your dermatologist to listen carefully and deliver appropriate therapy.

7. They Treat You With Respect

You want your dermatologist to see you as more than simply a name on a piece of paper if you have psoriasis. When they respect you, you can work together to make sound health decisions.

8. They're Interested in Your Life

Psoriasis frequently flares up as a result of environmental influences. Your dermatologist should be interested in your life, particularly probable psoriasis triggers.

A common trigger is a stress. As a result, your dermatologist should inquire about your stressors, how you deal with them, and so on.

9. They Enable Questions

They are concerned about your health. Your dermatologist should encourage you to ask questions regarding your psoriasis.

You can both make informed judgments regarding psoriasis therapy by asking questions. However, if your dermatologist does not establish a welcoming environment that encourages questioning, then they may not be right for you.

10. They Answer Questions Clearly

Once you've asked your questions, your dermatologist must provide clear answers. Medical jargon and abstract concepts will not give you control over your therapy.

Scalp psoriasis is a scaly, silvery coating on the scalp. Itching and discomfort are common symptoms of this illness. Scratching your scalp will aggravate the problem and may result in temporary hair loss, which can be upsetting.

Treatment might help you manage your psoriasis on the scalp. A doctor can suggest a number of therapy alternatives that will clear it up in a few months. Your scalp irritation and hair loss should be reduced as a result of these therapies.

Hair loss can be caused by scalp psoriasis, although this does not mean you need a hair transplant. 

Scratching your head can help reduce itching caused by scaling. It's possible that your hair will fall out as a result of this. Hair loss can occur as a result of methods for removing scales forcefully to cure psoriasis.

Because of the thickness of the skin on the scalp and hair, scalp psoriasis often necessitates therapies that differ from those used on other parts of the body. So, before you reach for any lotions or pills, here are some do's and don'ts when it comes to scalp psoriasis.

Do Investigate symptoms

Despite the fact that half of psoriasis patients experience symptoms on their scalp, many mistakes the white flakes for dandruff and wait until the illness becomes severe to seek treatment. And it might be a difficult condition to handle at that stage.

Do use shampoos that contain tar or salicylic acid

For decades, tar has been shown useful as a psoriasis therapy, but applying it is dirty, effort consuming, and results take time. Salicylic acid is also effective, but if left on the scalp for too long, it might cause temporary hair loss. Scale softeners sold over the counter can also be applied to the scalp to help release scales. The disadvantage is that, while these products can assist with psoriasis, they can also dry out your hair.

Do not use harmful chemicals

Many people use relaxers to straighten their hair for years, but the chemicals eventually proved too harsh for the scalp to endure. So it’s a good idea to quit using relaxers. Even if you don't use relaxers or perms, you could still be utilizing chemicals that are excessively harsh for your scalp.

Do use natural products

The greatest natural hair and scalp products frequently contain components that you can also eat. My grandma used apple cider vinegar to oil my scalp when I was a kid since it can assist with infections and scaling. Olive oil, coconut oil, and avocado are some more scalp-friendly products.

Do not use hot water

The scalp, like the rest of your body, can be damaged by hot water. It can also make your disease worse by drying out your skin and making you more prone to flare-ups. Try lukewarm water for scalp psoriasis, as recommended by nurses years ago.

Do consult a doctor before you use meds for your body or scalp

Just because something can be used on your body doesn't mean it can't be used on your head. According to the NPF, a range of topicals are safe for both the body and the scalp, including anthralin, Dovonex, Taclonex, and Tazorac. Also, unless recommended by a doctor, do not use anything indicated for the scalp on your body.

Do not wear dark colored shirts

It's vital to wear whatever feels comfortable, whether dark or light, however, some people avoid dark colors since it can cause flakes to become more visible. Flakes can be camouflaged or reduced in appearance by wearing lighter-colored clothing or shirts with designs.

Do not be afraid to speak up about symptoms and treatment options

If you see plaques on your scalp, contact your doctor right once. Ignoring these signs and symptoms may aggravate the condition and raise the likelihood of hair loss. You might also wish to discuss systemic medications with your doctor, which target the entire body, including the scalp, without the need for topical therapies.

Psoriasis is an incurable autoimmune skin condition. It causes your skin cells to multiply up to 10 times faster than they should. It causes the skin to build up, resulting in thickened patches of skin called plaques. Psoriasis can affect any part of your body including the scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back. 

Unfortunately, there is no cure for psoriasis. But with a proper treatment plan, you can manage the symptoms and minimize the flares. With the bunch of prescribed treatments, you may be looking for natural home remedies for psoriasis treatment. 

Below are 7 effective home remedies to help you manage psoriasis symptoms and improve the quality of your life. 

1. Aloe vera

Aloe vera is a great remedy that can help people suffering from psoriasis symptoms. You need to apply aloe vera several times a day to soothe itching, relieve inflammation, and hydrate the affected areas of your skin. There is no evidence that confirms taking aloe vera supplements may also help treat psoriasis symptoms. For this reason, stick to the topical use of aloe vera. 

2. Olive oil

Olive oil is packed with omega-3 fatty acids that can help reduce inflammation and soothe the itching scalp. You need to rub a small amount of warm olive oil in the psoriasis plaques to soften them. You may also use olive oil during a shower. Massage your scalp with olive oil to get rid of flakes of skin from scalp psoriasis. 

If you have large patches of psoriasis on your body, add several teaspoons of olive oil to your baths. This will help you moist the skin and relieve the symptoms of psoriasis. 

3. Oats

Many people with psoriasis swear it can help reduce the symptoms like skin redness and itching. You can apply oat paste directly to the affected areas or take an oatmeal bath. Grind several handfuls of plain oatmeal and put it into a warm bath. 

4. Apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar may be helpful for people suffering from scalp psoriasis. Applying it to the affected areas of your scalp several times a week can help relieve itchiness and inflammation. Because concentrated apple cider vinegar may cause burning sensations, it is recommended to dilute it with water in a ratio of 1:1. After the solution has dried, rinse your scalp with water to avoid irritation. 

Avoid applying apple cider vinegar if your skin is cracked or bleeding. This can cause severe discomfort and further irritate your skin. 

5. Flaxseed

Some products like red meat or dairy food contain an inflammatory compound called arachidonic acid. Too much of this compound in your body can aggravate inflammation and worsen the symptoms of psoriasis. One of the best natural ways to reduce the levels of arachidonic acid in your body is by eating flaxseed. You can add grounded flaxseed to smoothies, oatmeal, granola, muffins, and use it for salad dressing. 

Eating flaxseed on a regular basis can help reduce the symptoms of psoriasis and improve the quality of your life.

6. Turmeric

Turmeric is a spice that has great anti-inflammatory properties and is beneficial for several chronic health conditions, including psoriasis. Thanks to the antioxidant compound curcumin, turmeric can protect your skin from the negative effect of free radicals and promote skin regeneration. You can add turmeric to your rice, vegetables, smoothies, and any other dish. You may also consider taking turmeric supplements. 

7. Dead Sea salt

Dead Sea salt and Epsom salt are rich sources of magnesium. Adding this salt to your warm bath and soaking your body for 15 minutes can help relieve itching and improve the general condition of your skin. Be sure to apply a moisturizer after the bath to prevent skin dryness and worsening of the symptoms.