Treatments for Psoriasis

Psoriasis may have several symptoms depending on the type of psoriasis. The most common symptom is red patches on the skin covered with dead skin cells. While there is no cure for psoriasis, certain treatments may help to reduce symptoms and improve quality of life.

Topical Medications

Certain topical treatments may work to provide relief from psoriasis including cream, lotions and ointments to moisturize the skin. Certain shampoos or foams may also be available to help treat psoriasis on the scalp. Sunlight may also be recommended, although patients are often encouraged to avoid sunburn and excessive exposure. Topical corticosteroids and Vitamin D compounds may be used as well. Retinoid gels and anthralin may also be effective topical treatments for psoriasis.

Phototherapy

Exposure to ultraviolet light may also be recommended. Exposure should be brief and should be controlled. Sunlight is obviously the most natural source of ultraviolet light, although some skincare professionals may recommend other artificial sources as well. UVB therapy (using ultraviolet B) light has shown to be an effective treatment for psoriasis. Psoralen and UVA light therapy (PUVA) combine a medicine and UVA light to treat psoriasis. The medicine makes the skin more sensitive to ultraviolet light.

Oral Medication

Certain oral medications may also be used to treat psoriasis. Methotrexate, retinoids and cyclosporine are examples of medications that have shown to be effective in treating psoriasis. Talk to your doctor about other oral medications used to treat psoriasis. Depression, anxiety and social isolation may be attributed to psoriasis due to the embarrassing nature of the condition's appearance. These symptoms should be treated by a trained psychiatrist or doctor. For more information about psoriasis treatments, consult a licensed physician or skincare professional.