Common Psoriasis Treatments
Treatments for psoriasis vary depending on the severity of the condition and how it manifests in each individual. Below are some of the most comment ones currently used:
Topical Remedies
Topical treatments are often the first line of defense for managing psoriasis, particularly in mild to moderate cases. These treatments are applied directly to the skin and can help reduce inflammation, slow down skin cell growth, and alleviate symptoms like itching and scaling.
Corticosteroids: These are the most frequently prescribed topical medications for psoriasis. Corticosteroids help reduce inflammation and suppress the immune response, which helps to decrease the symptoms. They come in various strengths, ranging from mild (over-the-counter) to potent (prescription-based). Long-term use, especially of stronger corticosteroids, needs to be monitored to avoid side effects like skin thinning.
Vitamin D Analogues: Calcipotriol and calcitriol are synthetic forms of vitamin D that help slow skin cell growth. These treatments are often used in combination with corticosteroids to enhance their effectiveness.
Coal Tar: One of the oldest treatments for psoriasis, coal tar helps reduce scaling, itching, and inflammation. It is available in various formulations, including shampoos, creams, and bath solutions. Despite its effectiveness, it can be messy to use and has a strong odor.
Topical Retinoids: Tazarotene, a derivative of vitamin A, helps to normalize DNA activity in skin cells and reduce inflammation. However, it can cause skin irritation, so it is often used in conjunction with corticosteroids.
Salicylic Acid: Often used in combination with other treatments, salicylic acid helps remove the scales from psoriasis lesions and smooths the skin, allowing other topical treatments to penetrate more effectively.
Light Therapy
Light Therapy (Phototherapy) involves exposing the skin to ultraviolet (UV) light on a regular basis under medical supervision. This treatment is particularly effective for moderate to severe psoriasis.
UVB Phototherapy: Narrowband UVB is the most common form of phototherapy used for psoriasis. It slows down the abnormal growth of skin cells. Treatment typically occurs in a clinical setting, but home units are also available for patients who require ongoing treatment.
PUVA (Psoralen + UVA): This treatment combines UVA light exposure with psoralen, a medication that makes the skin more sensitive to light. PUVA is generally used for more severe cases or for psoriasis that doesn’t respond to UVB treatment.
Excimer Laser: A more targeted form of light therapy, the excimer laser delivers high doses of UVB light to specific areas of the skin affected by psoriasis, minimizing exposure to healthy skin.
Phototherapy is effective, but it requires a commitment to regular sessions, and potential side effects include premature skin aging and an increased risk of skin cancer with prolonged use.
Medication
Systemic medications are used for moderate to severe psoriasis or psoriasis that hasn’t responded to other treatments. These medications work throughout the body and are available in oral, injectable, or intravenous forms.
Methotrexate: This medication suppresses the immune system and slows the rapid turnover of skin cells. It’s commonly used for more severe cases but requires careful monitoring due to potential side effects, including liver damage.
Cyclosporine: Another immunosuppressant, cyclosporine is effective in controlling severe psoriasis. However, it can also cause kidney damage and high blood pressure with long-term use.
Oral Retinoids: Acitretin is a vitamin A derivative that reduces skin cell production. It is particularly useful in treating pustular psoriasis. However, it can cause birth defects, so it’s not recommended for women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
Biologics: These are newer, targeted therapies that specifically address the immune system components responsible for psoriasis. Biologics like adalimumab, etanercept, and ustekinumab are administered via injection or infusion and are highly effective in managing moderate to severe psoriasis. They are generally considered when other treatments haven’t worked, but they also carry the risk of serious infections and other immune-related side effects.
Lifestyle & Home Remedies
In addition to medical treatments, lifestyle changes and home remedies can help manage psoriasis symptoms and reduce flare-ups.
Moisturizers: Regularly applying moisturizers can help keep the skin hydrated, reduce dryness, and minimize the scaling associated with psoriasis.
Diet and Nutrition: While there is no specific diet for psoriasis, maintaining a balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods like fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids may help reduce flare-ups.
Stress Management: Stress is a known trigger for psoriasis. Techniques such as yoga, meditation, and regular exercise can help manage stress levels and may reduce the frequency and severity of psoriasis flare-ups.
Baths: Taking warm baths with Epsom salts, Dead Sea salts, or oatmeal can soothe the skin, reduce itching, and remove scales.