Psoriasis
Advanced Treatments for Long-Term Skin Relief
Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin condition that causes red, scaly, inflamed patches on the skin. It occurs when the immune system overstimulates skin cell production, leading to rapid skin buildup and persistent flaking, itching, and discomfort. While psoriasis has no permanent cure, expert dermatologic treatments can help control symptoms, reduce flare-ups, and restore skin health.
What Is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a lifelong inflammatory skin disorder that results in rapid skin cell turnover, leading to thickened, scaly patches that may appear on the scalp, elbows, knees, lower back, and nails. It is linked to an overactive immune system, where the body mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells, causing excessive inflammation and skin buildup.
While psoriasis is not contagious, it can be genetically inherited and triggered by stress, infections, medications, and environmental factors.
Types of Psoriasis
Plaque Psoriasis (Psoriasis Vulgaris)
The most common type, causing raised, red patches with thick, silvery-white scales.
- Often appears on the scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back.
- Can be itchy, painful, and prone to cracking or bleeding.
- Flares may be triggered by stress, weather changes, or skin injuries.
Guttate Psoriasis
Characterized by small, red, drop-like lesions that appear suddenly.
- Often triggered by strep throat, infections, or immune system stress.
- More common in children and young adults.
- May clear on its own or transition into chronic plaque psoriasis.
Inverse Psoriasis
Smooth, red, inflamed patches in skin folds, such as under the breasts, armpits, and groin.
- Unlike plaque psoriasis, it lacks scaling due to moisture in these areas.
- Often worsens with friction, sweating, and fungal overgrowth.
Pustular Psoriasis
A severe form of psoriasis causing white pustules (blisters filled with pus) on red, inflamed skin.
- Can appear on the hands and feet (palmoplantar pustulosis) or across the body.
- May cause fever, fatigue, and systemic symptoms in severe cases.
Dermatologist-Recommended Psoriasis Prevention & Skin Protection
While psoriasis cannot be fully prevented, managing triggers and strengthening the skin barrier reduces flare-ups.
Moisturize Daily to Prevent Skin Cracks & Flaking
Keeping skin hydrated and nourished reduces dryness, scaling, and irritation.
- Use thick, fragrance-free emollients and creams with ceramides.
- Apply moisturizer immediately after showering to lock in hydration.
- Avoid alcohol-based products, which can worsen dryness.
Minimize Stress & Immune Triggers
Since psoriasis is autoimmune-related, stress and infections can trigger flare-ups.
- Practice stress-reducing techniques like meditation and deep breathing.
- If prone to strep throat, seek early treatment to prevent guttate psoriasis flares.
- Manage underlying conditions like obesity, diabetes, and high blood pressure, which may worsen psoriasis.
Avoid Harsh Skin Irritants & Friction
Certain products and habits can worsen inflammation and trigger scaling.
- Use gentle, sulfate-free body washes and shampoos.
- Avoid scrubbing psoriasis patches, which may trigger Koebner’s phenomenon (psoriasis appearing in injured areas).
- Wear soft, breathable clothing to prevent irritation.
Topical Treatments (Steroids & Vitamin D Analogs)
Prescription creams and ointments help reduce inflammation and slow skin cell overgrowth.
- Corticosteroids (Clobetasol, Betamethasone) calm redness and scaling.
- Vitamin D analogs (Calcipotriene, Calcitriol) slow cell turnover.
- Used alone or in combination with phototherapy for mild-to-moderate cases.
Phototherapy (Light Therapy)
Narrowband UVB light slows immune overactivity and skin thickening.
- Effective for plaque, guttate, and scalp psoriasis.
- Safe for long-term treatment, with minimal side effects.
- Requires multiple sessions per week for best results.
Oral & Injectable Medications (Systemic Therapies)
For moderate-to-severe psoriasis, systemic medications help control inflammation from within.
- Methotrexate & Cyclosporine suppress the immune system.
- Apremilast (Otezla®, Sotyktu®) targets inflammation at the cellular level.
- Biologic injections (Humira®, Cosentyx®, Skyrizi®, Taltz®, Bimzelx®, and Tremfya®) block specific immune pathways that cause psoriasis.
Scalp Psoriasis & Nail Psoriasis Treatments
Specialized treatments target hard-to-treat areas, like the scalp and nails.
- Salicylic acid & coal tar shampoos for scalp psoriasis.
- Steroid injections under the nail for nail psoriasis.
FAQs
Is psoriasis contagious?
No, psoriasis is not contagious and cannot be spread through skin contact.
Does psoriasis go away on its own?
Psoriasis is a chronic condition, meaning it requires ongoing management. Some cases improve with treatment, but symptoms may return
What triggers psoriasis flare-ups?
Common triggers include stress, illness, cold weather, dry skin, certain medications, and skin injuries
Can diet affect psoriasis?
Some patients find that reducing alcohol, dairy, gluten, and processed foods helps minimize flares, but results vary.
Is psoriasis linked to other health conditions?
Yes! People with psoriasis are at higher risk for psoriatic arthritis, heart disease, and autoimmune disorders.
How can I tell the difference between psoriasis and eczema?
Psoriasis causes thick, scaly plaques, while eczema results in dry, itchy rashes that may ooze or crack.
Does sunlight help psoriasis?
Some natural sunlight exposure may help reduce symptoms, but overexposure can worsen inflammation and increase skin cancer risk.
What’s the best moisturizer for psoriasis?
Thick, fragrance-free creams with ceramides, shea butter, or colloidal oatmeal work best.
When should I see a dermatologist for psoriasis?
If your psoriasis is worsening, covering large areas, or not responding to over-the-counter treatments, a dermatologist can provide advanced therapies
Still Have Questions?
Take Control of Psoriasis with Personalized Treatment
If you’re experiencing persistent scaling, redness, or discomfort, our dermatology team offers advanced solutions to manage psoriasis and improve skin health.
Dermatologists
Tessa Cervantes MD
Dermatologist
Dr. Cervantes specializes in comprehensive care for diverse skin types.
Tessa Cervantes MD
Dermatologist
Dr. Cervantes specializes in comprehensive care for diverse skin types.
Milton Moore MD
Dr. Moore is a seasoned dermatologist known for his innovative approach and dedication to excellence. With a focus on comprehensive skin health, he’s committed to delivering exceptional outcomes for every patient.
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