Expanding the Topical Toolbox: Roflumilast Foam for Scalp and Body Psoriasis

EP: 1.Challenges With Topical Psoriasis Treatments and the Need for Simpler Options

EP: 2.Why Treating Scalp Psoriasis With Topicals Remains a Challenge

EP: 3.The Utility of Topical Treatment in Skin of Color

EP: 4.Designing the Ideal Topical: Relieving Itch and Improving Quality of Life

EP: 5.Evolving Options in Psoriasis: A Closer Look at Nonsteroidal Topicals

EP: 6.Exploring the Safety of Newer Nonsteroidal Topicals in Psoriasis

Now Viewing

EP: 7.Expanding the Topical Toolbox: Roflumilast Foam for Scalp and Body Psoriasis

Roflumilast foam recently received FDA approval for treating scalp psoriasis, marking an important advancement in topical psoriasis management. Clinicians were pleasantly surprised by its effectiveness on the scalp, a notoriously difficult area to treat. In clinical trials, more than 60% of patients achieved clear or almost clear scalp skin with a significant 2-grade reduction in severity, despite many having moderate to severe disease. This robust efficacy, combined with a highly effective moisturizing vehicle, makes it a standout option. The vehicle itself provides hydration and ease of use, addressing common issues such as greasiness or interference with hair styling, which often reduce patient adherence to topical therapies.

One of the unique benefits of roflumilast foam is its formulation, which intentionally avoids harsh ingredients such as alcohol and propylene glycol that are common in older foams and can cause irritation or dryness. This gentle, hydrating vehicle not only improves tolerability but also allows for better penetration into the scalp’s “nitty-gritty” areas. The formulation’s suitability across various hair types and styling practices makes it versatile and user-friendly. It also performs well in diverse patient populations, including those with skin of color, without compromising safety or efficacy. This simplifies treatment decisions for clinicians, allowing them to confidently prescribe 1 product for scalp and body psoriasis without needing to tailor therapy extensively based on race, hair texture, or patient lifestyle.

An important safety advantage for roflumilast foam is the absence of hypopigmentation, a common adverse effect of topical corticosteroids, especially concerning in patients with skin of color. Clinical trial data show that pigmentation often normalizes or improves with treatment rather than worsens. This steroid-sparing option offers a safer alternative, addressing both the clinical and cosmetic concerns of patients. Overall, roflumilast foam provides a highly effective, well-tolerated, and easy-to-use treatment option that could improve outcomes and adherence in managing both scalp and body psoriasis.