What is psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a skin disease that causes itchy, scaly patches on the skin. These patches are called plaques and are usually found on the elbows, knees, scalp, lower back, ankles and tops of your foot. They can also appear anywhere on the body.
Symptoms of psoriasis include:
• Thick, red skin with silvery-white scales
• Dry, cracked skin that itches or bleeds
• Thick, ridged, pitted nails
• Dry, thick, and raised patches on the skin
Psoriasis is caused by the immune system attacking your own skin cells.
Psoriasis is not contagious. It can come and go throughout a person's life. There is no known cure for psoriasis, but treatments can improve symptoms.
If you have skin changes that aren't going away, you should talk to your doctor.
Treatments for psoriasis
• Topical treatments, such as creams and ointments
• Phototherapy, which exposes the skin to ultraviolet light
• Systemic treatments, such as oral or injectable medications.
Steroids are the most commonly prescribed medications for mild to moderate psoriasis.
They are available as creams, ointments, lotions, gels, foams, sprays, and shampoos.
Mild forms of some steroids are available without a prescription and can work well for a few small patches of psoriasis.
However, if you have more than a few small patches, you'll likely need a prescription for a stronger steroid.
Other treatments include:
• Roflumilast (Zoryve), a newly approved steroid-free cream
• Cyclosporine
• Methotrexate
You can also try to avoid harsh skin products, such as those that contain alcohol. Take a min to look at the products you are using on your skin. It will save you a world of hurt.
Using moisturizers like factor X should help with keeping skin healthy.
While short periods of sun exposure can reduce psoriasis, too much sun can damage the skin and cause skin cancer. Sunburns can also trigger psoriasis.