Psoriasis is a chronic immune system disorder that causes discomfort to nearly six million people across the United States, according to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This skin disorder creates an overproduction in skin cells at the affected site. Psoriasis appears as thickened patches of inflamed, red skin, covered in silvery scales, explains the FDA. Treatment options vary significantly and not all of them work for each patient. Psoriasis is a condition that has no cure as of yet. Keeping the symptoms of psoriasis minimized is the focus of all treatment options. According to the Mayo Clinic, these treatments aim to interrupt the skin cell growth cycle to reduce the buildup of lesions. Other methods work to remove the buildup and treat the discomfort it produces.
Step 1
Identify times when your psoriasis seems to flare up. Some people experience a proliferation of their symptoms when exposed to stress or sun exposure. Avoid any psoriasis triggers if you discover them.
Step 2
Get out in the sun, but only for a few minutes. It is best to apply sunscreen to any skin that is exposed to the sun. A small amount of sun light may be able to improve the lesions you have on your body, according to the Mayo Clinic. Repeat this a few times per week, but avoid overexposure.
Step 3
Soak in a bath of warm water, colloidal oatmeal, and Epsom Salts. These agents can help soothe the skin. Avoid taking too warm of a bath or shower, to prevent further drying of your skin. Soaking for 15 to 20 minutes is sufficient, and can be repeated as often as you desire.
Step 4
Shampoo with a specially formulated psoriasis shampoo, if you have scalp lesions. This shampoo typically contains salicylic acid, among other products known to reduce skin cell buildup. Follow the directions carefully. Usual instructions include gently rubbing the product through the hair, allowing it to sit for two to three minutes, and then rinsing the shampoo out thoroughly. Comb through your hair after each application to help remove the cells that were sloughed off during the application. Your doctor may be able to provide a prescription, if needed, for special shampoos. Many options are available over the counter.
Step 5
Apply a thin layer of topical corticosteroids, if your doctor has prescribed them. There are some over-the-counter ointments that are made for psoriasis treatment, which can also be effective. Apply the cream according to the instructions. Typical use includes two applications per day. The creams are effective in minimizing the discomfort of the lesions and reducing the production of new cells.
Step 6
Use moisturizer often, especially at the site of the psoriasis. Thick creams are best, as they are long-lasting. Slather the moisturizer on as often as necessary. Before bed, apply an extra thick layer and cover the psoriasis to trap body heat and assist in sloughing off the skin cells.
Things You'll Need
- Sunscreen
- Epsom salts
- Colloidal Oatmeal
- Salicylic acid shampoo
- Topical corticosteroid
- Thick moisturizer balm
