What Can I Do About Psoriasis?

Though there’s no cure for psoriasis as of now, there are many things a person can do to help the condition. They range from light therapies to topical medications to lifestyle choices. Here are just some of them:

Light Therapy

People with psoriasis may notice that their symptoms improve if they spend some time out in the sun. This is because the sun’s ultraviolet light slows down how fast the skin cells are produced. In psoriasis, the skin cells grow too quickly and don’t shed the way they should, which allows them to build up in plaques made of silvery scales. On the other hand, too much time spent in the sun can make the condition worse, so many patients undergo controlled exposure to UV light in the comfort of our office. There are different types of UV light treatment, including those that work in tandem with medications.

Medications

Topical Drugs
Some over-the-counter medications placed directly on the lesions relieve psoriasis that’s mild to moderate, while more severe forms of the disease may respond to prescription medications. They include corticosteroids, which calm the skin and reduce itching. Corticosteroids should only be used for a short time because they thin out the skin and may become ineffective. Salicylic acid is related to aspirin, and it prompts the body to shed the dead skin cells. This, in turn, eases scaling. Other people with psoriasis use moisturizers to ease the itchiness and dryness.

Other Drugs
Besides topical drugs, there are also systemic treatments like SORIATANE®, methotrexate, cyclosporine and the biologics. They are oftentimes used for people whose psoriasis doesn’t respond to other types of therapies. However, it all depends on the unique case, as treatment for the condition is not one-size-fits-all.

Call Us for More Information About Psoriasis and the Treatment Options

If you wish to ease the inflammation, scaling, itching and unattractiveness of psoriasis, give us a call at Peachtree Dermatology. We will gladly arrange a consultation with you so that we can evaluate your condition and come up with a customized treatment plan for you. Gone are the days when people just had to live with their symptoms. We want to work with you to come up with a solution that improves your skin and quality of life!

Peachtree Dermatology is conveniently located right here in Atlanta, GA. Contact our office today to set up a consultation and get started. We look forward to hearing from you!