What Is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is an inflammatory skin condition that is likely caused by an autoimmune response. Psoriasis is characterized by scaly patches of red skin any place on the body. These patches of irritated skin may be thicker than normal or may have a silvery coating of skin. There is no cure for psoriasis, but treatments can keep symptoms at bay and preventive measures can reduce your risk of flare-ups.
Topical Psoriasis Remedies
Creams, ointments, moisturizers and other topical treatments are often used to treat minor psoriasis outbreaks. Topical treatments may include coal tar, salicylic acid, lactic acid, retinoid vitamins or cortisone to help alleviate itching, swelling and irritation. These medications may be purchased over-the-counter, or through a prescription from your doctor. Sunlight therapy may also be used to help clear up skin irritation from psoriasis, says the Mayo Clinic.
Shampoos and Soaks
Psoriasis on the scalp can be treated with the medicated shampoos used to treat dandruff, as they can help get rid of the flaky, scaly skin. Skin irritated by psoriasis may be relieved by a soak in an oatmeal bath. A cup of oatmeal or an oatmeal-based bath product can be added to bath water for relief of psoriasis skin irritation.
Medications
Sometimes a secondary bacterial infection can occur on the skin. Those will need to be treated with prescription antibiotics from your doctor. Remicade, Enbrel, Amevive and Humira are used to treat psoriasis, says the U.S. National Library of Medicine, and work against the body's immune system to alleviate outbreaks.
Prevention
There's not much that you can do to prevent psoriasis. However, good hygiene and skin care can help to prevent outbreaks. That means regular bathing and frequent moisturizing of the skin. Try not to irritate sensitive skin with hard rubbing or vigorous washing, and stay away from anything that triggers your psoriasis. Possible psoriasis triggers, says the national medical library, include exposure to sunlight, excessive alcohol consumption, dealing with stress and infections.
