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Is a chronic inflammatory skin disease that has many different treatment options depending upon the severity and whether there is associated joint inflammation (psoriatic arthritis). It can present on the skin as dry skin, a rash, and/or thickness or flakiness of the skin.
There are quite a few options that are available to treat this condition, with newer options appearing over time. “Today’s newer treatments, including enzyme inhibitors and injectable biologic medicines, have the ability to clear the skin of visible plaques, stop joint inflammation, and dramatically improve the quality of life in patients with psoriasis,” shares Dr. David Powell, a board-certified dermatologist.
The three main categories of treatments are topicals, UV light, and systemic (internal) medicine.
Topical Therapies
Topical therapies include preparations of steroids, vitamin D, vitamin A, tar, salicylic acid, and urea. “These are applied to the affected areas of skin and come in the forms of creams, ointments, gels, lotions, solutions, and foams,” Dr. Powell explains. They are best for small areas of localized psoriasis in patients without joint involvement.
UV Light Therapy
“Ultraviolet light therapy includes medical-grade light box devices and lasers that deliver specific wavelengths of light to involved skin,” Dr. Powell notes. These utilize strategic targeting of UV rays to assist with the symptoms that those with psoriasis can experience. This treatment plan usually involves a regular treatment schedule and evaluation with your dermatologist.
Systemic Therapies (Biologics, etc.)
Systemic therapies include immunosuppressants, enzyme inhibitors, and injectable biologic medicines. These treatments are used for more severe, widespread diseases with or without joint involvement. These medicines are taken internally and may be associated with a variety of potential side effects, but are generally well-tolerated and highly effective.
“All of these treatment options, either alone or in combination, can be highly effective in treating psoriasis and improving a patient’s quality of life,” emphasizes Dr. Powell.
In addition to psoriasis, there are other skin conditions that can affect a person’s self-confidence and satisfaction with their appearance. These can include cellulite or stubborn body fat that exercising and a proper diet can’t reduce.