10 Effective Skin Psoriasis Treatment Options for Clearer Skin

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It’s a condition that causes skin cells to rapidly build upon the surface of the skin, resulting in redness, itching, and discomfort. Psoriasis can appear on any part of the body, including the scalp, nails, and joints. It’s an autoimmune disease that can impact a person’s overall health and well-being. While there is no cure for psoriasis, there are many treatment options available that can help manage the symptoms and improve the quality of life for people living with this condition.

Understanding Psoriasis

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease, which means that the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells. In the case of psoriasis, this attack is directed towards the skin cells. This causes the skin cells to grow rapidly and accumulate on the surface, resulting in raised, red patches that are covered with silver scales.

Psoriasis is a chronic condition, which means that it can have periods of remission and flare-ups. Factors that can trigger psoriasis include stress, injury to the skin, infections, and certain medications.

Treatment Options for Psoriasis

There are many treatment options available for psoriasis, including topical medications, light therapy, and systemic medications. The right treatment options for psoriasis depend on the severity of the condition, as well as other factors such as the patient’s age, overall health, and lifestyle.

Topical Medications

Topical medications are creams and ointments that are applied directly to the skin. They work by reducing inflammation and slowing down the growth of skin cells. Some of the most commonly prescribed topical medications for psoriasis include:

• Corticosteroids: These are the most commonly prescribed topical medications for psoriasis. They work by reducing inflammation and itching. Corticosteroids are available in different strengths, and your doctor will prescribe a strength that is appropriate for your particular condition.
• Topical Vitamin D analogues: These medications work by slowing down the growth of skin cells.
• Topical Retinoids: These medications work by decreasing inflammation and slowing down the growth of skin cells.
• Topical calcineurin inhibitors: These medications work by reducing inflammation and suppressing the immune response.

Light Therapy

Light therapy, also known as phototherapy, is a treatment that involves exposing the skin to ultraviolet light. This can be done in a doctor’s office or at home using a special light box. Light therapy can be an effective treatment option for people with moderate to severe psoriasis. However, it does come with some risks, including an increased risk of skin cancer.

Systemic Medications

Systemic medications are medications that are taken orally or administered via an injection. They work by targeting the immune response that causes psoriasis. Systemic medications are generally reserved for people with severe psoriasis, as they come with a risk of side effects. Some of the most commonly prescribed systemic medications for psoriasis include:

• Methotrexate: This is an oral medication that works by slowing down the growth of skin cells and suppressing the immune response.
• Biologics: These are injectable medications that work by targeting specific proteins in the immune system that are involved in psoriasis.
• Cyclosporine: This medication works by suppressing the immune system.

Alternative Treatments for Psoriasis

While there is no cure for psoriasis, many people find that alternative treatments can be helpful in managing the symptoms of the condition. Some alternative treatments for psoriasis include:

• Aromatherapy: Some people find that essential oils can help soothe psoriasis symptoms. Popular essential oils for psoriasis include tea tree oil, lavender oil and frankincense oil.
• Acupuncture: Acupuncture involves inserting thin needles into the skin at specific points on the body. Some people find that acupuncture can help reduce stress and relieve psoriasis symptoms.
• Dietary Changes: Some people find that making dietary changes can help reduce psoriasis symptoms. For example, some people find that eliminating gluten from their diet can help improve their skin condition.

Conclusion

Psoriasis can be a challenging condition to live with. However, there are many treatment options available that can help manage the symptoms and improve the quality of life for people living with this condition. Whether you opt for traditional medical treatment options, alternative treatments, or a combination of both, it’s essential to work closely with your healthcare provider to find a treatment plan that works best for you.