Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes the overproduction of skin cells. The most common form, plaque psoriasis, appears as scaly, red patches on the skin. Psoriasis can be mild, moderate, or severe, and can lead to other serious health conditions such as heart disease and diabetes. There is no cure for psoriasis, but there are treatments that can help control the symptoms.
There are a number of ways that people can get psoriasis relief. Some people may only need to use over-the-counter treatments, while others may require prescription medications or light therapy.
Using Lotions to Combat Psoriasis
Topical treatments are the most common form of treatment for mild to moderate psoriasis. These include creams, ointments, and gels that are applied to the affected area. Topical treatments can be purchased over-the-counter or prescribed by a doctor.
One of the most common over-the-counter treatments for psoriasis is a topical corticosteroid. Topical corticosteroids can help to reduce inflammation and itchiness.
Psoriasis lotion can help to moisturize the skin and prevent itching. There are a number of different lotions available, so it is important to read the labels carefully to find one that is suitable for people with psoriasis. Psoriasis lotion also can help to reduce the appearance of psoriasis. A number of different self-tanning products are available that can help to camouflage the affected areas of skin.
Taking Over-the-Counter Drugs
Systemic treatments are taken by mouth or injected and work throughout the entire body to slow down the overproduction of skin cells. These include oral medications such as methotrexate and cyclosporine, and injectable medications such as adalimumab, infliximab, and ustekinumab. Systemic treatments can have serious side effects, so they are usually only used for people with severe psoriasis who have not responded to other treatments.
Another form of treatment is through salicylic acid. This can be found in over-the-counter treatments or prescribed by a doctor. Salicylic acid helps to shed the dead skin cells that are one of the main causes of psoriasis.
Other forms of treatment for psoriasis include immunosuppressant medications, biologic drugs, and retinoids. Immunosuppressant medications help to reduce the activity of the immune
system. Biologic drugs are made from living cells and target specific parts of the immune system. Retinoids are a type of vitamin A that can help to reduce inflammation.
Using Technology to Tame Psoriasis
If over-the-counter treatments do not work, a doctor may prescribe stronger corticosteroids. These can be taken orally or injected into the affected areas. Light therapy, also called phototherapy, involves exposing the skin to ultraviolet light. This can be done in a doctor’s office or at home with a special lamp. Light therapy is usually used for people with moderate to severe psoriasis.
UVB phototherapy uses ultraviolet light to help slow the growth of skin cells and reduce inflammation. PUVA therapy combines UVB phototherapy with a medication called psoralen, which makes the skin more sensitive to light. These treatments can be done in a doctor’s office or at home.
Taking Natural Remedies
Finally, people with psoriasis may also want to try natural remedies. These can include things like aloe vera gel, oatmeal baths, and vitamin D supplements.
There is no cure for psoriasis, but there are many treatments available that can help to control the symptoms. If you have psoriasis, it is important to see a doctor if your symptoms are severe or if over-the-counter treatments are not working. A doctor can prescribe stronger medications or light therapy if necessary. Some treatments may not be suitable for everyone, so it is important to get medical advice before trying any new treatment. With the right treatment, most people with psoriasis can get relief from their symptoms and can lead normal, healthy lives.
