Where can psoriasis be located?

Psoriasis can be present on any part of the skin.

Please click on the red dots (links) in the drawing to read further about psoriasis in specific regions of the body.

Psoriasis tend to be different depending on the part of the body,

and it might not have the exact same symptoms and treatments

on different body sites.

If you have psoriasis on the scalp, on the nails, on the trunk or

other specific regions, you can click on the link and get further information.

Please also see the section on treatments.

Click on the red dots to read more about locations

Scalp psoriasis   Scalp psoriasis affects 1.5%-2% of the population.   It is characterised by large, thick plaques which spread onto the forehead well below the hairline as a clearly defined "cap", or as discrete patches. Healthy hair grows through the scales and does not get caught up in their base.   Scalp psoriasis does not make hair fall out; hair roots are located deep beneath the skin and are not affected. Unlike dandruff, which affects almost the entire scalp, psoriasis forms very distinct patches and leaves other areas clear.   Although dandruff cannot be felt when the fingers are run through the hair, in the case of psoriasis lumps can be felt, caused by the build-up of scales and held together by the hair. Scale contains a significant amount of sebum in scalp psoriasis.   The intensity of redness and itchiness varies from person to person. Psoriasis may not be visible all the time since the psoriatic lesions come and go with long or short intervals. Living with scalp psoriasis can be very demanding due to the cosmetic annoyance, itching and the visibility of the scales. Around 50-80% of patients with psoriasis of the body also have scalp involvement, either as the only site involved or, more commonly, along with psoriasis on other parts of the body.   Scalp psoriasis can be challenging and it demands special attention to reduce the symptoms which may be both physically and psychologically distressing.       Symptoms Scalp psoriasis is characterised by white scales which may look like the flakes from dandruff. However, the scales in scalp psoriasis are larger and more obvious. Untreated scalp psoriasis commonly appears like silvery scales. There is a tendency that scales accumulate in hairy areas, since the scales get stuck in the hair instead of falling off. Distinct scaling, where the scales are easily identified by leading the hand over the scalp, is a clear sign of scalp psoriasis.     Topical treatment for scalp psoriasis   Topical treatments are first-line treatments for scalp psoriasis. A topical medication is used externally, applied directly onto the scalp and onto the affected site. You may with your Doctor's help and advice, have to try out different products to find the one that has the best effect for you and which you feel most comfortable with. Many people with psoriasis can obtain a satisfactory result, if they get the right treatment. Consult your doctor if you are not satisfied with your present treatment. Some topical products for scalp psoriasis are mentioned below. Betamethasone dipropionate and salicylic acid scalp solution This combination contains a potent topical corticosteroid, betamethasone dipropionate, and salicylic acid. The topical corticosteroid treats the symptoms of scalp psoriasis (reduce itching and inflammation) and the salicylic acid works as a descaling agent. The solution should normally be applied once to twice daily for a maximum of 6 weeks; however your doctor may prolong this period, as appropriate depending on the response to treatment. However, long-term continuous treatment is not appropriate. Calcipotriol solution C