People with scalp psoriasis often look for relief from dry, itchy plaques. Some over-the-counter (OTC) products may help manage scalp psoriasis, but not all are equally effective.

Vichy Dercos is one line of shampoos that several MyPsoriasisTeam members have asked about. Here’s what you need to know before deciding if it may work for you.

What Is Vichy Dercos Shampoo?

Vichy Dercos shampoos are available OTC, so you don’t need a prescription. You can find them in many drugstores. The line includes several products:

• Vichy Dercos Anti-Dandruff shampoo — Designed to treat flaking associated with dandruff. Some people also use it as a psoriasis shampoo, but there’s no strong evidence that it helps with psoriasis.
• Vichy Dercos Psolution Kerato-Reducing Treating Shampoo — This shampoo is made to soothe the scalp and relieve scalp psoriasis symptoms. Its main ingredients are urea, salicylic acid, and glycerin.
• Other Vichy Dercos products include conditioners, dry shampoos, and other treatments for scalp concerns.

What Shampoo Is Good for Psoriasis?

Vichy Dercos Psolution shampoo may help some people with psoriasis symptoms. One of its main ingredients is salicylic acid. According to the National Psoriasis Foundation, salicylic acid can help soften and remove psoriasis scales. Talk to your healthcare provider or dermatologist about whether this shampoo might be right for your scalp psoriasis.

The Anti-Dandruff Shampoo Might Indirectly Help Psoriasis Symptoms

Vichy Dercos anti-dandruff shampoo is a medicated shampoo made to hydrate the scalp. Its active ingredient is selenium sulfide, which has been shown to help with scalp conditions like dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis (a type of eczema).

Unlike shampoos recommended for scalp psoriasis, this one does not contain salicylic acid, coal tar, or ketoconazole.

Selenium sulfide can remove dry scales and reduce itching or flaking on the scalp. There are no recent studies showing that it works for psoriasis. However, some researchers believe it could help

In one study, selenium sulfide was used for hyperkeratosis (thickening of the skin’s keratin-based outer layer). Researchers found that selenium sulfide slowed the rate of cell turnover, which is thought to be the same way it might help people with psoriasis.

Since psoriasis speeds up skin cell growth, slowing this process could reduce plaques. Theoretically, this could lead to less itching, burning, and other symptoms of psoriasis.

How To Use Vichy Dercos Shampoos for Scalp Psoriasis

To give Vichy Dercos shampoos the best chance of working on your scalp psoriasis, follow the instructions carefully.

Lather the shampoo, massage it into the scalp, leave it on for two minutes, and rinse well. Ask your dermatologist before trying these shampoos for psoriasis. Ingredients like selenium sulfide can sometimes irritate your skin and worsen psoriasis symptoms.

If your dermatologist approves, you can start by using the shampoo twice a week for two weeks. Then, switch to once a week for two to four weeks. After that, use it only as needed, or check with your dermatologist about more regular use. Because this shampoo is designed for scalp care, you may want to use a different shampoo for daily hair care.

After using the shampoo, wash your hands well. Avoid getting it in your eyes. If it does get in your eyes, rinse them right away with plenty of water.

Potential Concerns When Using Vichy Dercos Shampoos

If your scalp seems more irritated after using the anti-dandruff shampoo with selenium sulfide, stop using the product and call your dermatologist. Other possible side effects include an extra oily scalp, oily or discolored hair, or unusual hair loss. If you notice these side effects (especially if they are severe or long-lasting), talk to your healthcare provider right away.

The psoriasis shampoo may cause stinging and irritation where you apply it. If you develop signs of an allergic reaction, such as hives, swelling, or difficulty breathing, call your healthcare provider immediately.

If your psoriasis has caused open wounds or infections on your scalp, don’t apply shampoo until they have healed. You should also avoid using the shampoo if you are pregnant, and don’t use it on children under 2 years old.

Vichy Dercos Psolution may reduce itching and flaking linked to psoriasis. It may be a good option if you have mild to moderate psoriasis, but be sure to watch for any changes or side effects until you find what works best for you.

Other Scalp Psoriasis Tips From MyPsoriasisTeam Members

Members of MyPsoriasisTeam have shared what has worked for them in managing scalp psoriasis. While these strategies may not work for everyone, they may be worth discussing with your healthcare provider.

“I was advised to stop using chemicals on my scalp,” shared one member. “I have a filter on my shower hose and rinse with diluted apple cider vinegar. It helps stop the itch. I also use a zinc, sulfate-free shampoo very occasionally.”

Another wrote, “Tarsum shampoo (coal tar) doesn’t smell as bad as the others. I used to put it on my skin and scalp for 10 to 15 minutes before showering. Then, I would use a washcloth and wash my hair before showering. This cleared my scalp and helped with my skin.”

Shampoos and Home Remedies for Scalp Psoriasis

Managing scalp psoriasis often requires a combination of approaches. Special shampoos, home remedies, and prescribed psoriasis medications may all play a role in keeping scalp psoriasis symptoms under control.

“I have had scalp psoriasis since the age of 7,” wrote another member. “Using pure coconut oil overnight every other week helps lift the flakes and soothe any itching. You may have to wash your hair twice, as I get stray flakes in my hair, but brush it out when dry, and then wash again.”

“I used a coal-tar shampoo for years,” responded another member. “It smelled terrible, but it did help. Coconut oil sounds (smells) much better. I don’t have a problem at all now, since I have been on immunosuppressant medication for 10 years.”

Another wrote, “I had scalp psoriasis for 10 years. Steroids gave temporary relief. I tried all the medicated shampoos to no avail. Extra-virgin olive oil worked miracles on the plaques. I would dab them, and they would dissolve within an hour. Relief would last a week.”

Talk to your dermatologist if you aren’t happy with your current scalp psoriasis treatment plan or if you need to get started on a treatment plan. If your scalp psoriasis is mild, they may recommend a shampoo and other options to get you on your way to relief.

Join the Conversation

On MyPsoriasisTeam, people share their experiences with psoriasis, get advice, and find support from others who understand.

Do you use Vichy Dercos products or have other tips for dealing with a psoriasis-prone scalp? Let others know in the comments below.