Psoriasis is a common condition of the skin that affects people of all ages. Psoriasis is an inherited disorder that results in patches of red, itchy, irritated skin that can be fairly unobtrusive or readily visible. The exact cause of psoriasis can only be guessed at. The process that creates it, however, is known. Skin cells typically rejuvenate about once a month. In those with psoriasis, this process is elevated, the dead cells piling up on the skin. There are ways to treat the disorder through over-the-counter medications.
Salicylic Acid
Salicylic acid is a peeling agent that, when applied to psoriasis, causes the outer layer of the affected skin to scale off. In essence, the acid works to remove psoriasis by softening and removing the build up of dead skin cells. Because salicylic acid is a fairly strong treatment, it can cause skin irritation and the hair follicles to weaken and drop out. When using salicylic acid, be careful to follow the manufacturer recommendations carefully and avoid prolonged exposure to the substance.
Tar
Believe it or not, tar from wood and coal is an excellent, and popular, over-the-counter treatment for psoriasis. Not only does tar work to alleviate the outlying symptoms of the disorder like itching and flaking, but it can also inhibit the growth of more new skin cells, restoring the body to normal skin cell production levels. Like salicylic acid, tar can also cause skin irritation. The National Psoriasis Foundation recommends applying the tar to a small area of psoriasis. If it causes irritation and redness to the skin, stop using the product. If you are going to use tar as a regular treatment for psoriasis, be aware that certain chemicals in tar can cause cancer. Regular skin check ups are advised.
Lotions and Oils
Lotions are highly recommended for alleviating the symptoms of psoriasis. Keeping the skin moist is vitally important to healthy skin in general and is no different if you have the condition. According to the National Psoriasis Foundation, vegetable oil can be used as a substitute for expensive skin conditioners, but beware of too much sun exposure if you choose this method. Oil will accelerate the sun's ability to burn the skin and could lead to complications like sunburn.
Bath Treatments
Taking a bath with the right ingredients can be extremely beneficial in the treatment of psoriasis. Epsom and Dead Sea salts, oil and oilated oatmeal have the ability to remove psoriasis scaling and relieve itching. After the bath, cover the affected area with a skin lotion specifically designed for psoriasis (sold over-the-counter at drug and grocery stores), to keep the moisture locked in.
