Discover effective psoriasis treatments for managing dry, scaly, and itchy skin. Explore topical treatments, oral medications, light therapy, and supplements. Online research can help you prepare to consult your doctor for personalized care.
What Is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a chronic, noncontagious autoimmune disease that causes dry patches of skin.1 It can make skin scaly and itchy. Psoriasis is characterized by red, scaly patches of skin that can appear anywhere on the body. Psoriasis is not contagious and is not caused by poor hygiene. The exact cause of psoriasis is unknown, but it is thought to be related to the immune system and genetics.
Psoriasis is a chronic condition, meaning that it can last for a long time. However, it can be managed with treatment. There are a variety of treatment options available, including topical treatments, oral medications, light therapy, and supplements.2 The best treatment option for a person will depend on the severity of their psoriasis and their individual needs.
Psoriasis: A Chronic Skin Condition
Psoriasis is characterized by red, scaly patches of skin that can appear anywhere on the body. The most common areas affected are the elbows, knees, scalp, and lower back. Psoriasis can also affect the nails, causing them to become thick, pitted, and discolored. In some cases, psoriasis can also cause joint pain and stiffness.
Psoriasis Treatment Options
There are a variety of psoriasis treatment options available, including topical treatments, oral medications, light therapy, and supplements. The best treatment option for a person will depend on the severity of their psoriasis and their individual needs.
Topical treatments are applied directly to the skin and can include creams, ointments, lotions, and gels. Topical treatments can help to reduce inflammation and itching, and they can also help to improve the appearance of the skin. Some common topical treatments for psoriasis include corticosteroids, retinoids, and calcipotriene.
Oral medications are taken by mouth and can include methotrexate, cyclosporine, and apremilast. Oral medications can help to reduce inflammation and itching, and they can also help to improve the appearance of the skin. Oral medications are often used in combination with topical treatments.
Light therapy involves exposing the skin to ultraviolet (UV) light. Light therapy can help to reduce inflammation and itching, and it can also help to improve the appearance of the skin. Light therapy is often used in combination with topical treatments or oral medications.
Supplements can also be helpful in treating psoriasis. Some common supplements that are used for psoriasis include fish oil, vitamin D, and aloe vera. Supplements can help to reduce inflammation and itching, and they can also help to improve the appearance of the skin.
Learn More About Psoriasis
If you are interested in learning more about psoriasis, there are a number of resources available. You can talk to your doctor or you can visit online resources to prepare to speak with your doctor. There are also a number of books and articles available about psoriasis.