Psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder that affects the scalp cells. It is a disorder that affects the scalp, hairline, forehead, skin around the ears, and the back of the neck. About 45 to 56% of people with psoriasis have scalp psoriasis.
Most people experience the disease in cycles following different environmental and lifestyle triggers. These psoriasis triggers may include extreme weather changes, smoking, skin injuries, stress, and bug bites.
What are some of the symptoms you may notice with psoriasis? Several signs may help you detect scalp psoriasis early enough. They include fine scaling that looks like dandruff. Sometimes, it may appear as thick and crusted plaques on the entire scalp.
Psoriasis is common among people of color, and treatment is different. Doctors say that treatment depends on one’s hair type.
Therefore, a treatment that has worked for your friend might not work for you. It would be wise to put several factors into consideration before treating psoriasis.
Moreover, it can appear in cycles, meaning it can appear and disappear with time. Hence, many treatment options are available in the market to soothe the disorder as it appears.
Do remember to check out our ultimate guide on how to cure psoriasis permanently.
In this article, you learn how to treat scalp psoriasis using Manuka honey! Let’s dive right in…
What is Manuka Honey?
Manuka honey is a type of honey derived from the Manuka bush, a type of tree that specifically grows in Australia and New Zealand.
Manuka honey is a monofloral honey that you will find in the market. It is primarily from the nectar of a single flower if you wonder what monofloral means.
How to Use Manuka Honey to Treat Scalp Psoriasis
People treat scalp psoriasis with alternative or natural therapies such as vitamins, herbs, or a specific diet. This article will look at one such remedy; Manuka honey.
Before using any remedy to treat your psoriasis, consult your dermatologist to know the best for your hair type. However, using Manuka honey is quite easy in the comfort of your home. To use this remedy, you can follow the following easy steps:
- Apply the honey to the affected areas of the scalp.
- Allow it to sit for 30 to 1 hour.
- Rinse off with warm water.
- Repeat the process 3 to 4 times weekly.
How to prepare a Manuka honey remedy at home
- Mix one tablespoon of honey with another tablespoon of olive oil
- If you do not have olive oil, you can alternatively use coconut oil.
- Apply the mixture to the affected area of your scalp.
If your case is severe, you may need a Manuka honey mask. Making it is also quick and efficient at home. Try this:
- Mix half a cup of Manuka honey with 1/4 cup of plain yogurt
- Apply and leave it to absorb for 30 minutes
- Rinse off with warm water
- Apply it twice or thrice every week.
Why Use Manuka Honey?
Why should you use manuka honey to treat your scalp psoriasis? Well, Manuka honey contains unique properties such as:
- Anti-inflammatory property
- Antioxidant properties
- Antibacterial properties
The above properties are known to treat wounds, treat acne, prevent tooth decay and soothe sore throats. Therefore, using Manuka honey will positively affect your scalp and soothe and heal psoriasis.
Additionally, Manuka honey has conditioning properties that will keep your skin hydrated. Remember, as you treat your psoriasis, you don’t want to add dryness on top.
Other advantages of using Manuka honey to treat psoriasis are:
- It is a natural humectant that retains skin moisture. It will help you retain it easily.
- It promotes the process in which new skin cells replace damaged cells
- It creates a protective barrier against the surrounding environment in the areas affected by the disorder.
Effectively, you will find double antibacterial potency in Manuka honey compared to other types of honey. It creates a more effective treatment for your psoriasis.
Why should you suffer when you can ease the pain on your scalp using Manuka honey? If you have wounds on your scalp, Manuka honey has healing properties that will help sufficiently.
However, there is no scientific evidence to support the information above. Although many doctors recommend their patients use the product, there are no scientific experiments. Therefore, before purchasing the manuka honey, request your dermatologist’s opinion.
Read: What Does Honey Do to Your Skin – 6 Benefits for Skin
Alternatives of Manuka Honey to Treat Scalp Psoriasis
How should you treat psoriasis if you do not have access to Manuka honey? Sometimes, it isn’t easy to access this honey, especially if you live outside Australia and New Zealand. However, this should not trouble your soul. There are different alternatives you could use besides Manuka honey.
Some include:
1. Salicylic Acid
Why should you use salicylic acid? It is an ingredient you will find in other over-the-counter products. It helps remove the scales that appear from psoriasis on your scalp.
- It is safe for your scalp
- Easily removed scales and dead skin
- Promotes healing on your scalp
2. Capsaicin
Capsaicin is a cream you can use, like Manuka honey. It helps to fight the irritation and inflammation on your skin. If you can easily access this cream, take advantage and manage your scalp psoriasis.
3. Hydrocortisone Cream
Why don’t you try hydrocortisone cream if you are still looking for alternatives above? It is as effective as Manuka honey and serves an equally good purpose. Some of the advantages of using this cream include the following:
- Reduce itching around affected areas
- Soothe discomfort that comes with the disorder
- Promote healing in your affected area
Takeaway
Healing scalp psoriasis can be challenging, especially if you need to identify the best remedy for your scalp. However, using Manuka honey can fasten your healing process and give your scalp a normal look. If you wish to use honey, you can use the procedure above to make a mixture at home.
If you are constantly experiencing psoriasis, there is no need to worry. Manuka honey is the best solution for your scalp. Do not forget to record your progress.
Related Articles:
