Over-the-Counter Medications
The most common way to treat mild to moderate psoriasis is through the use of over-the-counter products. Most of these products contain salicylic acid, coal tar or a combination of both. Salicylic acid acts as a peeling agent and causes the outer layers of the skin to peel away. It helps soften and lift psoriasis scales. Coal tar, usually derived from juniper and pine woods, is another common treatment for psoriasis. Coal tar works by slowing the rapid growth of skin cells and reduces inflammation and redness. Moisturizers are another important part of psoriasis treatment and prevention. Moisturizers keep the skin lubricated and heal irritation.
Prescription Medications
Prescription medications fall into two groups--steroid and non-steroid medication. Non-steroid medications are often used to treat moderate psoriasis, while steroid treatments are often reserved for severe psoriasis. Calcipotriene is a synthetic vitamin D-3 non-steroid medication that slows skin growth, flattens lesions and removes scale. Tazarotene is a non-steroid vitamin A derivative that slows new skin growth. Tazarotene causes the skin to become very red, but this redness is not painful. Steroid creams come in a variety of class levels ranging form class 1 (superpotent) to class 7 (least potent). Most psoriasis is treated with a class 3 or 4 steroid.
Alternative Treatments
There are many alternative treatments for psoriasis available. Excimer laser treatment uses high-intensity UVB light waves to treat localized psoriasis lesions. The treatment lasts about 15 minutes, and most patients see results in as few as four sessions. One of the cheapest treatments is to go outside and sit in natural sunlight. It can take as little as five to 10 minutes of exposure a day to clear up a psoriasis lesion. Dermatologists also recommend taking a fish oil supplement to complement psoriasis treatments.
