How to Heal Psoriasis

Overview

Psoriasis is a chronic condition that causes redness and patches of scaly skin. The cause is not well defined but it is believed that is related to genetics. Physicians speculate that the body's immune system may mistake normal cells for abnormal entities and fights against them, which results in a large surface area of dead cells. The condition generally appears in frequent intervals. The disease is common with few complications and is not a contagious one. Following are some ways that you can heal the skin.

Step 1

See your doctor or a dermatologist for a definitive diagnosis. Once psoriasis is identified, the physician can determine the extent of the severity and recommend treatment.

Step 2

Follow your physician's plan which may include oral medications, such as retinoids, cyclosporine or methotrexate. Take all medications as directed.

Step 3

Apply topical medications to your psoriasis outbreaks. These may be prescribed corticosteroids, Vitamin D, anthrain or topical retinoids. You may also use over-the-counter products, but be sure to test a small area before application.

Step 4

Ask your doctor about aggressive light therapy if your case of psoriasis is severe. This treatment has many forms, including direct sunlight exposure, UVB phototherapy, photochemotherapy and excimer laser usage.

Step 5

Moisturize your skin daily to soothe red itchy patches. While moisturizer cannot heal the condition, the products can soothe the skin and reduce itching that can result from other therapies. By not scratching your skin, you will allow it to heal faster.

Step 6

Use coal tar on your psoriasis. This byproduct of petroleum and coal manufacturing is a very old treatment for the disease. It is smelly and messy but has few side effects and can be purchased over-the-counter.

Step 7

Moisturize and bandage affected areas before you go to sleep. This will help reduce scaling and redness while protecting the skin from further damage.

Step 8

Put on sunscreen while being treated for psoriasis as many therapies can make you sun sensitive. Avoid spending an excessive amount of time outside as sunburn is often a trigger for a psoriasis flare-up.

Step 9

Wear cotton clothing as this natural material is less likely to irritate or overheat your affected skin.

Step 10

Apply cooling washcloths or cold compresses to scaly patches each day to soothe the skin and reduce itching. The less you scratch, the faster your psoriasis outbreak will heal.

Step 11

Avoid consuming alcohol as it can reduce the effectiveness of many of the psoriasis medications.