How does a health care provider tell the difference between scalp psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp?

Your health care provider will likely be able to tell you if you have scalp psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis or both by looking at your skin, scalp and nails.

Scalp psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis are common conditions that affect the scalp. And they share some symptoms, such as inflamed, scaly skin.

Most often, the scales of psoriasis look thicker and drier than the scales of seborrheic dermatitis. Psoriasis tends to extend beyond the hairline. And psoriasis usually affects more than one area of the body. If you have scalp psoriasis, you may have mild psoriasis on your elbows, knees or lower back too. Or you may notice nail changes, such as pitting.

Compare symptoms

Scalp psoriasis

  • Inflamed skin covered with scales or with oily, crusted patches called plaques
  • Patches that may extend beyond the hairline or appear on other parts of the body
  • Itching

Seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp

  • Inflamed skin covered with scales or crusted patches
  • Skin flakes, called dandruff, on the scalp and hair
  • Itching

Scalp psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp share some similar treatments, including medicated shampoos and corticosteroid lotions. Scalp psoriasis is often persistent and more difficult to treat than is seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp. Other treatments, such as light therapy, may be needed to help control psoriasis.

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July 25, 2024 See more Expert Answers

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  6. Dry skin
  7. Ease stress to reduce your psoriasis flares
  8. Exercising with arthritis
  9. Ground flaxseed
  10. Gluten sensitivity and psoriasis: What's the connection?
  11. Hand exercises for people with arthritis
  12. How to heal cracked heels
  13. How to heal cracked skin at thumb tip
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  17. Living better with psoriasis
  18. Psoriasis-related health risks
  19. Mayo Clinic Minute: Fingernails are clues to your health
  20. Mayo Clinic Minute: Moisturizer tips from a dermatologist
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  22. Pregnancy and breastfeeding when you have psoriasis
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  27. Identifying what worsens your psoriasis
  28. Psoriasis: Get the most out of your treatment
  29. Psoriasis: How can I protect my skin during a workout?
  30. Psoriasis treatment options
  31. Psoriasis: What if I get psoriatic arthritis, too?
  32. Psoriasis: What to share with your doctor
  33. Relaxation techniques
  34. Skin biopsy
  35. Skin care tips
  36. Slide show: 5 ways to thrive with psoriasis through the holidays
  37. Slide show: Caring for your skin when you have psoriasis
  38. Types of psoriasis
  39. Alternative psoriasis treatments
  40. What are the risks of vaccinations for people living with psoriasis?
  41. What's the best way to manage scalp psoriasis?
  42. White patch on skin: A cause for concern?