Trying to remove thick, dry scales before softening them can irritate your scalp. A scale softener with salicylic acid can help loosen thick patches, making the scales easier to remove. 

Salicylic acid helps break down and lift away scales, which can also help psoriasis medicine reach the skin underneath. That’s why it’s a common ingredient in many over-the-counter products for the scalp. Use salicylic acid products only as directed to avoid irritation and excessive dryness.

When you forcefully remove the scale from your scalp, it often loosens your hair as well. Picking is worse — it can cause psoriasis flare-ups and hair loss. Using a soft hairbrush and avoiding rubbing or scratching plaques is beneficial.

Working shampoo hard into the scalp feels productive, but it isn't. Harsh rubbing or scratching can worsen symptoms. Instead, shampoo gently.

When applying medicine, separate the hair so the product reaches the skin. If your dermatologist recommends it, you may wear a shower cap after applying certain scalp medicines to help them penetrate thick plaques.

This is the smallest change on the list and possibly the highest-yield one, because it works while you’re asleep or distracted. Dermatologists advise you to keep your nails trimmed and the edges smooth. This may help reduce skin damage if you scratch without realizing it. It can also lower the risk of bleeding or pulling out hair.

Some medicated shampoos dry out hair, and dry hair breaks. Try alternating between a medicated shampoo and a gentle regular shampoo every other time you wash your hair. Using conditioner after each wash can also help soften your hair and cover the smell of medicated shampoo.

Scalp psoriasis can make the skin very dry, and using a blow dryer may dry it out even more. Hot tools are a separate problem: keep curling irons and hot rollers away from your scalp, because a burn or an irritation is enough to set off a flare.

Hairstyles that tug on the hair can irritate the scalp and trigger a psoriasis flare. If that tension happens often, it may also lead to hair loss.

Coloring, perming, or relaxing your hair or getting a blowout may also irritate your scalp. During a flare, it’s best to skip them. Between flares, ask your dermatologist which hair treatments are safest for your scalp.

Scalp psoriasis treatments can be stronger than treatments used on other parts of the body because the skin on the scalp is thicker. If your treatment stings, burns, or leaves your scalp irritated, tell your dermatologist. They may be able to switch treatments or change how you use them.

Also mention severe itching or anything about your hair-care routine that seems to make your symptoms worse. Treating the psoriasis can help control the itch, but your dermatologist may also suggest ways to get relief sooner.

If your scalp psoriasis is persistent or difficult to control, you may need further evaluation by your dermatologist.