Hair Products for Psoriasis: What to Use (and Avoid)

Living with scalp psoriasis can make hair care feel like a balancing act. Soothing your scalp while still wanting soft, shiny, beautifully coloured hair. At Josh Wood Colour, we believe that great colour and gentle care can coexist. This guide will help you understand how scalp psoriasis interacts with hair products, which ingredients to avoid, and how to choose the best hair products for psoriasis.

What Is Scalp Psoriasis?

Scalp psoriasis is a chronic skin condition caused by an overactive immune response that speeds up skin cell turnover. This results in raised, red, flaky patches that can itch or feel sore. Because these plaques form beneath your hair, finding the right hair products for psoriasis of the scalp is essential; you need gentle formulas that cleanse, hydrate, and protect without irritating your skin.

Scalp psoriasis isn’t caused by hair products, but some products can make it worse by drying out the scalp or trapping build-up. That’s why choosing scalp-friendly shampoos, conditioners and styling products is key.

Can Hair Products Cause Scalp Psoriasis?

While hair products can’t cause psoriasis directly, they can trigger or worsen flare-ups if they contain harsh ingredients. Alcohol-heavy sprays, strong fragrances, or silicones that clog pores can all contribute to irritation. If your scalp is already sensitive, these can make symptoms worse.

When you’re looking for the best hair product for psoriasis, focus on products that:

• Gently cleanse without stripping natural oils

• Moisturise both scalp and hair

• Contain minimal fragrance or alcohol

• Are designed for colour-treated or sensitive hair

Ingredients to Avoid in Hair Products for Psoriasis

If you live with psoriasis, your scalp barrier is more delicate than most. These ingredients can make symptoms worse:

• Drying alcohols (often found in sprays and gels)

• Strong fragrance or essential oils in high concentrations

• Heavy silicones or waxes that trap build-up on the scalp

• Sulfates that over-strip moisture

• Harsh preservatives such as parabens or formaldehyde donors

Choosing products that are fragrance-light, alcohol-free and conditioning will help keep your scalp calm while keeping your hair soft and glossy.

The Best Josh Wood Colour Products for Sensitive Scalps

Our products are designed to help you maintain vibrant, healthy hair , even when your scalp needs extra care. Here’s how you can build a scalp-friendly Josh Wood Colour routine.

Miracle Shampoo for Coloured Hair

A gentle, everyday shampoo enriched with UV filters and a moisture-balancing complex. It cleanses without stripping and is suitable for sensitive scalps , a perfect choice for maintaining colour while being mindful of psoriasis flare-ups.

Miracle Conditioner for Coloured Hair

This rich yet lightweight conditioner helps restore softness and shine while respecting the scalp’s natural balance. Apply mainly through the mid-lengths and ends to avoid build-up near the scalp.

Gloss Range

Our semi-permanent Gloss treatments (like Smoky Brunette or Champagne Blonde) refresh your colour and boost shine without ammonia or harsh chemicals , perfect for when you want a colour refresh that’s gentle on your scalp.

The Miracle System Permanent Hair Colour

Our signature at-home colour kit is designed for rich, even coverage with less irritation. It’s ammonia-free and formulated to minimise scalp sensitivity. As with all colour make sure you complete a patch test at least 48 hours before applying your colour.