Issue link: https://www.ahpindiestylist.com/i/1483267
N ot a m e m b e r ? J o i n at a s so c iate d h a i rp rofe s sio n a ls .c o m 27 This means your scalp psoriasis client might bring their medicated shampoo with them for you to use in place of your product. If the client doesn't bring in their own products, be sure to consult with them on what products you'll be using during the service. When styling their hair, consider limiting the number of products you use, especially anything with alcohol, essential oils, fragrance, or sulfates. BE CAREFUL WHEN DISCUSSING THEIR SCALP Your client is probably already aware of their scalp's condition. They might feel embarrassed or nervous for this appointment, and the last thing they want to hear is, "Wow, this scale is really large," or "When was the last time you washed your hair?" Instead, Walter recommends politely bringing up that you notice a rash or flaking to see if the client has noticed it before. Then, you can check if they've visited a dermatologist for an evaluation. The more you normalize the conversation, the more your client will open up and feel comfortable. SWITCH UP YOUR TOOLS Now is not the time to try out your new blow-dry brush or that detangling comb your colleague recommended to you. The key word here is gentle. Your client's scalp is likely more sensitive than the other clients you see, so use wide-tooth combs or soft-bristle brushes. "Never scrub, brush, or try to remove the psoriatic plaques, as that will only worsen it and lead to more irritation," Walter says. Also, limit the amount of heat you use when you're styling and consider air drying if possible. DISCUSS SERVICE OFFERINGS IN DETAIL Some of your most popular services have the potential to trigger or worsen scalp psoriasis. "Some hair dyes may irritate the scalp and prolong a psoriasis flare," Walter says. "Prescription and over-the-counter psoriasis topical medications may also make hair dye fade faster, so being aware of this is important." Be especially mindful of keratin treatments. According to a recent study, there was a correlation between Brazilian keratin treatments and psoriatic-like skin reactions in 43 patients. 3 Use your consultation time to discuss whether certain services will work with your client's unique experience. Discuss what your client's most common triggers are and offer alternative treatments that might be better suited for them. Just like any other client you see, a client with scalp psoriasis has their own unique hair and scalp— you just might have to be gentler in your approach. Cover all your bases during the consultation to ensure a successful appointment, and don't forget to make sure they're happy with the results. Notes 1. National Psoriasis Foundation, "About Psoriasis," accessed October 2022, www.psoriasis.org/about- psoriasis. 2. National Psoriasis Foundation, "Scalp Psoriasis," accessed October 2022, www.psoriasis.org/scalp. 3. L. E. Sanchez-Duenas et al., "Psoriasiform Skin Reaction Due to Brazilian Keratin Treatment: A Clinical-Dermatoscopic Study of 43 Patients," PubMed 14, no. 3 (May 2022): 103–8, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/ articles/PMC9231525. The key word here is gentle. Your client's scalp is likely more sensitive than the other clients you see.