RX Review: Integrating New Topicals Into Scalp Psoriasis Treatment Regimens - Episode 2
In this video, the second in a 6-part series, panelists discuss recent advancements in PsO management.
In this HCPLive RX Review Special Report, Mona Shahriari, MD, Associate Clinical Professor of Dermatology at Yale University, sits down with David Hartigan, a biologic coordinator with Biologic Coordinators of Dermatology, to dive into the clinical limitations of traditional topical therapies and explore how foam formulations offer meaningful advantages for high-impact areas like the scalp.
In this clip, Shahriari emphasizes that even limited plaque burden on the scalp can cause disproportionate psychosocial distress due to visibility, itching, and flaking, which can significantly impair quality of life.
She highlights the difficulty of delivering standard topicals through hair to affected scalp skin and underscores the importance of formulation choice based on hair type and texture. For patients with Afro-textured or tightly coiled hair, daily shampoos or drying creams can be impractical or even harmful. Instead, foam, lotion, or oil-based vehicles are often better suited for these patients. Additionally, concerns about hair color treatments and cosmetic outcomes further influence adherence and satisfaction.
Shahriari notes that foam formulations in particular offer a cosmetically elegant, hydrating, and easy-to-apply alternative that is compatible with diverse hair types. With once-daily application and rapid itch relief, these vehicles may overcome common barriers to treatment and improve both comfort and outcomes for patients with scalp psoriasis.
Editor's note: The FDA approved Arcutis Biotherapeutics's roflumilast under the name Zoryve as the first foam option available for scalp psoriasis in May 2025.
Part 1: Tackling Real-World Barriers in Scalp Psoriasis Treatment Delivery
Part 3: The Role of Roflumilast in Long-Term Psoriasis Management
Part 4: Counseling Patients With Psoriasis on Roflumilast and Nonsteroidal Topicals
Part 5: Bridging and Enhancing Biologic Response With Targeted Topicals for Scalp Psoriasis
Part 6: Advocating for Patients: Securing Access to Nonsteroidal Topicals Like Roflumilast
Our Panelists:
Mona Shahriari, MD, is Assistant Clinical Professor of Dermatology at Yale University School of Medicine, the Associate Director of Clinical Trials at CCD Research and a senior editor for the Journal of Psoriasis and Psoriatic arthritis. She also hosts HCPLive's podcast, The Medical Sisterhood.
David Hartigan, is a biologic coordinator for Optima Dermatology and the Education Chair for Biologic Coordinators of Dermatology.
Relevant disclosures for Shahriari include AbbVie, Dermira, Cara, Dermavant, Novartis, Union, BMS, Leo, Eli Lilly, Sanofi, Regeneron, UCB, and others. Hartigan reports no relevant disclosures.
