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Evidence-Based Facts Instant Answers Expert Analysis No BS / Fluff

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Evidence-Based Facts Instant Answers Expert Analysis No BS / Fluff

Psoriasis Treatment

Red, Inflamed patches covered with silver-white scales

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What is Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells. This common condition leads to red, inflamed patches covered with silver-white scales, often found on the elbows, knees, scalp, face, and skin folds.

psoriasis

Normally, skin cells grow deep within the skin and surface about once a month. This process is sped up in psoriasis, resulting in a buildup of dead skin cells.

For severe cases, dermatologists may prescribe medications or injections that modify the immune response to help control flare-ups.

Psoriasis can be treated by:

Topical Creams & Gels

Topical treatments like creams, gels, and lotions are best for mild to moderate psoriasis. Various options are available depending on the severity and affected areas:

  • Emollients (moisturizers): Help soothe dry skin, reduce scaling, and relieve itching. They can be used alongside other treatments.
  • Topical steroids: Reduce skin inflammation and come in different strengths, ideal for use on the face or skin folds. Long-term use in one area can lead to skin thinning.
  • Vitamin D analogues: Products like Dovobet are effective for plaque psoriasis, while calcipotriol can be used in sensitive areas to regulate cell turnover.
  • Tar preparations: Available as bath oils, creams, and shampoos, they slow cell turnover but can stain and are mostly used for widespread small plaque or guttate psoriasis.
  • Dithranol: Effective for thick plaques on tougher skin areas (like elbows), usually applied with a short contact regime but can stain clothes.
  • Calcineurin inhibitors (Tacrolimus, Pimecrolimus): Suitable for the face and skin folds, these do not risk skin thinning like steroids.

It’s recommended to consult a dermatologist before attempting self-treatment.

Light Therapy

Light Therapy also known as phototherapy is a psoriasis treatment that uses controlled doses of ultraviolet light to lower the immune response and reduce skin inflammation.

Types of light therapy include:

  • Narrowband ultraviolet B (UVB): Targets a specific part of the UVB spectrum.
  • Psoralens plus ultraviolet A (PUVA)**: Combines a light-sensitizing medication with UVA treatment.

Light therapy can complement topical treatments, but regular sessions are necessary.

Medication (in severe cases)

Oral or injectable medications are reserved for patients with severe psoriasis that hasn’t responded to other treatments.

Your doctor may prescribe these medications for short-term use, along with other treatment options. It’s crucial to discuss your medication plan thoroughly with your doctor.

Types of psoriasis medications include:

  • Methotrexate (oral)
  • Cyclosporin (oral)
  • Biologics (injections)

These medications can have serious side effects, which will be thoroughly discussed during your consultation with our experienced Dermatologist at CosmeDocs.

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Psoriasis Pricing

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Why Do People Seek Treatment for Psoriasis?

People pursue psoriasis treatment for several reasons:

  • To manage and control symptoms
  • To reduce the severity of flare-ups
  • To alleviate pain associated with psoriasis
  • To enhance self-confidence and self-esteem
  • To decrease stress, anxiety, and unhappiness
  • To lower the risk of developing related health issues, such as psoriatic arthritis, heart disease, and depression

Who Is Suitable for Treatment?

Treatment is suitable for anyone experiencing these symptoms and looking to improve their quality of life.

Symptoms of Psoriasis

The main symptoms include:

  • Inflamed, scaly skin
  • Thick, raised patches
  • Silvery-colored skin
  • Small, scaly spots
  • Hair loss (on the scalp)
  • Pitted, crumbly nails
  • Blisters

Plaque psoriasis is the most common type, accounting for 80-90% of cases. It appears as raised, thickened, silvery plaques of varying sizes, often accompanied by itchiness. Scratching can worsen the symptoms.

The remaining 10-20% of cases may include:

  • Guttate psoriasis: Small, scaly pink bumps, usually on the torso, arms, and legs.
  • Inverse psoriasis: Smooth, red patches in skin folds, such as armpits and genitals.
  • Pustular psoriasis: Sore, pus-filled bumps on the hands and feet.
  • Generalized pustular psoriasis: A rare, severe form affecting much of the skin, often with fever and other symptoms requiring immediate medical attention.
  • Erythrodermic psoriasis: A life-threatening condition causing widespread skin redness and burning, needing urgent care.
  • Nail psoriasis: Characterized by pitted, crumbly nails and discolouration.
  • Psoriatic arthritis: When psoriasis affects the joints, requiring immediate management.

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