Your doctor may recommend these:
- Coal tar products are available over the counter as shampoos, creams, gels, ointments, and soaps. They can help slow skin growth and reduce inflammation, itching, and scaling. To apply a coal tar shampoo, massage it into the scalp and leave on 5 to 10 minutes before rinsing out. You can leave other tar products on overnight. Staining and odor are the main drawbacks. A non-medicated conditioner after shampooing can help against the odor of tar shampoo.
- Salicylic acid is apeeling agent available over the counter and in prescription shampoos and soaps. It can soften scales, making them easier to remove.
- Medicated shampoos are available in coal tar and non-coal tar varieties. You can use these daily for scalp plaques, but follow the directions.
- Intralesional steroid injections can reduce inflammation. A doctor uses a small needle to inject medication into scalp plaques. You can have this procedure done at the doctor’s office.