Clinical benefit and tolerance profile of a keratolytic and hydrating shampoo in subjects with mild to moderate psoriasis. Results from a double-blind, randomized, vehicle-controlled study

Scalp psoriasis frequently goes with other disease location and may lead to a significant burden and impairment of quality of life. Adherence to local treatments is a frequent problem. A keratolytic and hydrating shampoo containing 2% salicylic acid, 5% urea, and 1% glycerin (active shampoo) has been developed for psoriasis-prone scalp. To assess the efficacy and tolerability of an active shampoo in subjects with mild to moderate scalp psoriasis. A single-center, randomized, double-blind, vehicle-controlled study was conducted on 67 adults with mild to moderate psoriasis. The active shampoo or its vehicle were applied daily for 14 days and 3 times/week for another 14 days. Assessments included the Psoriasis Scalp Severity Index (PSSI), Investigator Global Assessment (IGA), calculated total surface affected hair, scalp greasiness, irritation, and assessed scalp dermatitis–specific quality-of-life issues using SCALPDEX and product acceptability. The active shampoo significantly (p < 0.05) reduced the PSSI by 39.0%, 37.2%, 63.0%, and 69.0% immediately after washing compared to a 22.8%, 5.5%, 19.6%, and 13.0% with the vehicle at Days 1, 8, 15, and 30, respectively. SCALPDEX items, IGA, and irritation significantly (p < 0.05) reduced with the active shampoo. Hair and scalp greasiness improved continuously with both products until Day 21. Subject-reported symptom scores paralleled the positive evolution of clinical signs. The active shampoo was well tolerated, subjects were highly satisfied and had an improved QoL. The active shampoo significantly improved clinical signs, symptoms, and QoL of mild-to-moderate scalp psoriasis compared to the vehicle. It was very well tolerated and highly appreciated by the subjects.