According to the National Psoriasis Foundation, 2 to 3 percent of the world's population has psoriasis. The most common form of psoriasis is a chronic skin problem that involves patches of itchy, inflamed and scaly skin. Sometimes these patches are on the scalp. The patches are the result of skin cells that grow too rapidly and try to replace cells that are not ready to be replaced. Occasionally psoriasis affects the nails, causing them to be discolored or pitted. Mild cases of psoriasis may respond to over-the-counter treatments.
The goal of treatment is control of symptoms. Since in this condition the skin is itchy, relief of itching is one of theses goals. Bathing in warm or cool water and then applying a moisturizing cream or ointment is a first step. Scaly skin may respond better to a bath than a shower. Colloidal oatmeal or other agents to combat itch can be added to the water and have another positive effect, softening scales. Moisturizers work by holding in moisture, not adding moisture to the skin. Moisturizers should be applied to skin which is slightly damp.
Medications containing coal tar are used to slow the growth of skin cells. This will minimize scaly patches. Coal tar medications come in various forms, shampoos, products to add to the bath and medications to put on individual patches. When using a coal tar medication, including medicated shampoos, avoid exposing the treated skin to natural sunlight.
Medications containing salicylic acid, also called "sal acid," are used to remove scaly patches. Over-the-counter medications may have up to 3 percent salicylic acid. These medications come in many forms, gels, lotions, creams, pads, soaps and shampoos. Often this medication is used before applying another type of psoriasis medication, such as coal tar. The scaly patches are soften and removed using sal acid. The next medication that is applied can work directly on the skin without having to penetrate thick scales. Alternatives to salicylic acid medications include products containing phenol, urea or lactic acid.
What to Look for
Creams and ointments work best to hold in moisture and may be a better choice than lotions. A combination of products, some used during sleep and others for daytime, may be a solution to keeping the skin moist.
Salicylic acid and coal tar medications can irritate the skin if left on too long. Read the instructions fully before buying a product. Plan ahead and follow package instructions carefully.
Common Pitfalls
It's important to keep skin moist so read labels closely to avoid alcohol, fragrances and other substances that can dry the skin.
Because of state guidelines on tar products, coal tar preparations may not be available in California. Think ahead if you are planning a trip.
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