Dermal
Medicine Capasal Therapeutic Shampoo
Key ingredients: Salicylic acid 0.5% w/w; coconut oil 1.0% w/w; distilled coal tar 1.0% w/w
Psoriasis is a common, long-term skin condition thought to be caused by a problem with the immune system. The scalp and behind the ears are among the most common places for patches. It's not contagious (NHS). Mild scaling may respond to coal tar or salicylic acid products from a pharmacy, but most people with scalp psoriasis need prescription treatment from a GP.
Common signs
- Well-defined, raised patches with thick, silvery or grey scale
- Itching, soreness or bleeding if scale is picked
- Patches extending onto the forehead, neck or behind the ears, or elsewhere on the body
What usually helps
- Coal tar or salicylic acid shampoos can help mild scaling; on their own they're not enough for severe scalp psoriasis (NICE CKS).
- Soften thick plaques with a descaling product left on for an hour or more before washing, as directed (British Association of Dermatologists).
- Don't pick or scratch scale — comb gently and follow any prescribed treatment exactly.
- Coal tar can stain skin, hair and fabric and can make skin more sensitive to sunlight (NICE CKS).
Washing: Use your medicated shampoo as the pack or your GP directs, and a gentle, unperfumed shampoo on other days.
Build your routine with this concern
Read the full guides
- Scalp psoriasis: what it is and how it's treatedRaised, scaly, itchy patches on the scalp that can spread past the hairline and behind the ears. It's common, not contagious and can't be cured — but treatments can keep…
- Dry or itchy scalp: common causes and gentle fixesAn itchy scalp is usually nothing serious, but it has lots of possible causes — from dandruff and product reactions to psoriasis and head lice. How to narrow it down, wh…
Ingredients worth knowing
- Coal tar Evidence: LimitedLong-established medicine for scaling in dandruff, seborrhoeic dermatitis and mild scalp psoriasis
- Salicylic acid Evidence: LimitedLoosens and lifts scale in anti-dandruff shampoos and scalp treatments
- Ketoconazole Evidence: StrongAntifungal medicine in shampoos for dandruff and seborrhoeic dermatitis
Not medical advice. This guide is general information from the sources listed, not a diagnosis or a substitute for a pharmacist, GP or dermatologist. If you are worried, or symptoms are severe or not improving, get advice. Read our health information policy.
Sources
- NHS – Psoriasis nhs.uk
- British Association of Dermatologists – Psoriasis: topical treatments bad.org.uk
- NICE CKS – Scalp psoriasis cks.nice.org.uk
- NICE CKS – Coal tar products cks.nice.org.uk
Product types for scalp psoriasis
Grouped by category; products the manufacturer says are made for this concern are listed first. Not a ranking. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Anti-dandruff & medicated shampoos
See the category →Scalp treatments
See the category →
Sebco
Medicine Scalp Ointment
Key ingredients: Coal Tar Solution 12% w/w; Salicylic Acid 2% w/w; Sulfur for External Use 4% w/w (in a coconut oil base)
Combs & brushes
See the category →
Tangle Teezer
The Original Detangling Hairbrush
Key features: Flexible teeth that the retailer copy says 'flex and flick' through hair; ergonomically shaped, handle-free body. Described as suitable for all hair types, including fragile, colour-treated or fine hair, hair extensions and weaves.
Denman
D3 The Original Curl Definer & Styler (7 Row)
Key features: 7 rows of pins on a half-round pad; removable pad and pins for cleaning; teardrop-shaped handle; durable, scratch-proof print (per retailer copy).
Mason Pearson
Rake Comb C7
Key features: Extra-wide teeth; hand-crafted from cellulose acetate plastic in a tortoiseshell finish; length 16 cm (6.25 in); 12-month limited warranty.