Psoriasis Relief

Topical Treatment

Many of the treatments for psoriasis are designed to help relieve the symptoms of psoriasis (itchy and red scales on the skin). There are a variety of creams and ointments which can be applied to skin affected by psoriasis. Creams containing cortisone, for example, can be used to help improve psoriatic lesions. Other creams contain coal tar or a compound called anthralin, which can also be used to help relieve the itching. Moisturizers can also help prevent cracking of the skin. Salicylic acid can also be used to help relieve and prevent scaling of the skin. Finally, there are a variety of chemicals that are made from vitamins A and D (called retinoids), which can be used to treat psoriasis. Many of these creams and ointments are available both over-the-counter and in prescription form.

Phototherapy

Phototherapy uses ultraviolet (UV) light to kill special immune cells in the skin called T cells. Psoriasis is caused by T cells attacking the normal skin cells, causing them to divide too rapidly. Consequently, exposing the skin to ultraviolet light can help relieve the symptoms of psoriasis. The simplest form of phototherapy is exposure to direct noontime sunlight. Psoriasis can also be controlled using artificial ultraviolet light. Ultraviolet light comes in two different forms, UVA and UVB. UVA can be used along with a medication called psoralen (which makes the skin more sensitive to light) to treat psoriasis, or UVB light alone can be used.

Systemic Treatment

Severe cases of psoriasis can require more intensive treatment. Because psoriasis is caused by an overactive immune system, severe psoriasis can be treated by targeting the immune system. The best way of doing this is by giving patients immunosuppressants, which inhibit the immune system. Medications such as cyclosporine and methotrexate can be obtained with a prescription and can be effective. However, the suppression of the immune system can also have other side effects, such as making the patient more susceptible to infections.