Can You Get Psoriasis Around Your Mouth

When Psoriasis Affects Your Face

Heres what you need to know about treatment and self-care if symptoms develop around your eyes, ears, or lips.

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can cause thick, scaly plaques to develop on your skin. It commonly affects certain areas of the body, such as your knees, elbows, hands, feet, and scalp. Sometimes the disease can have a highly visible effect when it shows up on your face.

Skin diseases that are on the face, in my clinical experience, can really impact patients everyday life and how they feel about themselves, says Ronda Farah, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and an assistant professor at the University of Minnesota Medical School in Minneapolis.

The good news is there are effective treatments and ways to cope when psoriasis affects your face.

What Type Of Treatment Is Used For Psoriasis On The Face

It can be difficult to treat facial psoriasis because the skin is very sensitive. Low-concentration hydrocortisone cream is often used for psoriasis on the face because it is less likely to cause side effects, such as thinning skin, than other products.

Apply A Cold Compress

A cold compress can provide temporary relief from itching and can decrease swelling. These occur due to the numbing and distraction effect of the cold temperature.

If performed carefully, a cold compress can be a safe and effective treatment for skin problems that cause itching, such as psoriasis.

How to use:

Wrap ice cubes in a clean washcloth and lightly press the compress against the affected areas for 10 minutes. Repeat this method several times a day.

Note: Avoid direct application of ice to the skin as it can cause frostbite. Discontinue the compress if stinging or burning occurs.

Topical application of cold temperatures can desensitize the nerve endings in that area and thus reduce the perception of itching and skin discomfort caused by psoriasis.

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Lip Balms And Other Moisturizers

A variety of moisturizers and lip balms claim to work for psoriasis on the lips. However, the efficacy of these moisturizers has not always been thoroughly tested. Thick, petrolatum-based ointments will provide the best protection for dry, cracked lips. You should work with a dermatologist to find the right one for you.

Many of our members recommend using coconut oil to help with psoriasis. Ive been using the organic coconut oil with a tea tree oil mixture. It helps the itching and redness, one member said. Food-grade coconut oil is safe for use on the lips.

How Is Psoriasis On Your Lips Treated

Theres no cure for lip psoriasis, but there are treatments that can help you manage it. They include:

• Moisturizers. Topical lotions and oils that alleviate dryness, scaling, and cracked skin can make other topical treatments more effective. Moisturizers to try include coconut oil and emollient creams that dont contain perfume or other potentially irritating ingredients.
• Topical vitamin D. Calcipotriol, a vitamin D derivative, has been found to be effective at treating lip psoriasis.
• Corticosteroids. Prescription-strength corticosteroids can reduce itching and relieve inflammation.
• Tacrolimus ointment. This prescription cream weakens the immune system, reducing allergic reactions. Its used to treat eczema but has also been found to be helpful at treating lip psoriasis.
• This in-office treatment exposes skin to ultraviolet light on a regular basis. Several treatments may be required before you see an improvement in symptoms.
• Methotrexate. If your symptoms are severe or widespread, your doctor may prescribe this oral medication for you. Methotrexate slows the growth of skin cells, which stops psoriasis scales from forming.

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Home Remedies For Psoriasis

Using a moisturizer can preventdry skin and make living withpsoriasis a little easier.

Imagine having an unwanted guest show up on your doorstep. No one knows who invited him, and no one really wants him there. Hes one of the most annoying people youve ever met. And his personality is so abrasive, youre embarrassed to take him anywhere.

If you have psoriasis or know anyone with this frustrating skin condition, you know that its much like that uninvited guest. It shows up in the form of dry, inflamed, red, scaly patches of skin. Not only are psoriasis flare-ups aggravating, they make people with the condition so self-conscious about their appearance that theyre reluctant to go to the grocery store without ample covering. Probably most frustrating of all is that theres no magic formula to kick this guest out of town indefinitely. You have to learn how to deal with flare-ups as they come, and take good care of yourself and your skin.

With psoriasis, that means taking precautions to prevent outbreaks, such as using heavy moisturizers and leading an overall healthy lifestyle, and, if psoriasis does cause your skin to breakout into dry, red patches, treating it quickly. In this article, well discuss 28 home remedies some consisting of simple ingredients found in your kitchen to help treat psoriasis discomfort, and simple everyday changes you can make to help prevent outbreaks. Lets start by discussing what psoriasis does to skin.

How Long Will It Take To Get Rid Of Perioral Dermatitis

Expect gradual improvement. This rash tends to clear slowly. It may take a few weeks or a few months to clear completely.

If youre having trouble getting rid of a rash, you can find a board-certified dermatologist by going to: Find a dermatologist.

ImagesImage 1: Used with permission of the American Academy of Dermatology National Library of Dermatologic Teaching Slides.

ReferencesChamlin SL and Lawley LP. Perioral dermatitis. In: Wolff K, et al. Fitzpatricks dermatology in general medicine . McGraw Hill Medical, USA, 2008:709-12.

Nguyen V and Eichenfield LF. Periorificial dermatitis in children and adolescents. J Am Acad Dermatol 2006 55:781-5.

Rodríguez-Martín M, Sáez-Rodríguez M, et al. Case letters: Treatment of perioral dermatitis with topical pimecrolimus. J Am Acad Dermatol 2007 56:529-30.

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How Do I Know If I Have It

This can be tricky because oral psoriasis is controversial. Some experts don’t believe it’s really a type of psoriasis. They think the symptoms are caused by another condition.

To figure out what’s causing your symptoms, your doctor may:

• Ask you questions about your medical history
• Take a small sample of skin from inside your mouth to check under a microscope
• Do genetic tests

• Problems caused by smoking, dentures that don’t fit well, and other issues

Are There Complications Of Psoriasis

In some people, psoriasis causes more than itchiness and red skin. It can lead to swollen joints and arthritis. If you have psoriasis, you may be at higher risk of:

• Use medicated shampoo for scales on your scalp.

Other steps you should take to stay as healthy as possible:

• Talk to your healthcare provider about lowering your risk for related conditions, such as heart disease, depression and diabetes.
• Lower your stress with meditation, exercise or seeing a mental health professional.

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What Are Fissured And Geographic Tongue

In one recent study, investigators sought to identify any correlation between a fissured tongue and psoriasis severity and age of psoriasis onset. The results: FT is associated with late-onset psoriasis but not with the psoriasis severity.1

The clinical features of the fissured or geographic tongue are generally benign, just an inflammatory condition that affects the tongues surface. Discoloration and patchy areas can be found on the surfaces of a geographic tongue. The irregular markings often resemble a map.4

Treatments For Rash Around Mouth

Medical treatments often focus on the symptoms of rash around mouth as well as the underlying cause.

• Corticosteroids are commonly recommended as a topical cream or injection to combat the symptoms.
• Pain relievers may help to ease the discomfort and any swelling of the rash.
• Antihistamines are best used to treat rash caused by an allergic reaction.
• Oral antibiotics may be used to treat pain, inflammation, and other symptoms caused by an infection.
• Antibacterial creams and lotion may be used topically on the affected area of the rash for quick relief of symptoms.

Doctors may also recommend gently cleansing the area with a mild soap such as Cetaphil or discontinuing the use of fluoride-based toothpastes and mouthwashes.

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How To Apply Psoriasis Medication On Your Face

Here are a few basic tips:

• Use small amounts.
• Be careful when you apply creams and ointments around the eyes. Some treatments can irritate them.
• Follow your doctorâs instructions for taking the medication so you can prevent side effects, especially with steroids.
• Ask your doctor if you can use makeup to conceal the psoriasis on your face. Some products can prevent treatment from working.
• If your medication doesnât help or causes too many side effects, work with your doctor to figure out a treatment that will help.

Natural Remedies For Psoriasis

You can also supplement your horse milk treatment with natural remedies for psoriasis that have been used successfully for years.

Natural home remedies that also help against psoriasis include:

• Take a salt bath with dead sea salt so that dander flakes off, and the tense psoriasis skin can calm down.
• Herbs like chamomile, marigold, and turmeric have a calming effect on the skin.
• Vegetable oils as argan oil, tea tree oil, coconut oil, aloe vera, and CBD oil with calming and moisturizing properties.
• Apple cider vinegar that ensures that the natural acids bring the skin to normal pH value, thereby reducing psoriasis spots.

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What Causes Perioral Dermatitis

Its not entirely clear what causes this rash. Something may be irritating your skin, such as a skin care product or toothpaste. Its also possible that youre allergic to something thats touching your skin.

Many people develop this rash when they apply a corticosteroid medicine to their skin for too long. Thats why its so important to follow the directions for taking medications. Be sure to follow the directions on medications that you can buy without a prescription and your doctors instructions for using all medications.

What Are Other Types Of Psoriasis

Plaque psoriasis is the most common type. About 80% to 90% of people with psoriasis have plaque psoriasis.

Other, less common types of psoriasis include:

• Inverse psoriasis appears in skin folds. It may look like thin pink plaques without scale.
• Guttate psoriasis may appear after a sore throat caused by a streptococcal infection. It looks like small, red, drop-shaped scaly spots in children and young adults.
• Pustular psoriasis has small, pus-filled bumps on top of the red patches or plaques.
• Sebopsoriasis typically appears on the face and scalp as red bumps and plaques with greasy yellow scale. This type is a cross between psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis.

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Psoriasis Lesions In Your Nose

Psoriasis lesions that appear inside the nose are usually white or gray.

The PAPAA indicates that psoriasis in your nose is rare. If you feel that you have psoriasis in your nose, you should see a doctor for tests to exclude other more likely conditions.

Its also unusual, but possible, to have psoriasis lesions appear on:

• your lips

What Does The Research Say About Oral Psoriasis

There is no reliable incidence rate for psoriasis in the mouth.2 This is because the oral cavities of psoriatic patients are rarely examined and biopsies are generally not taken, so the condition may be underreported.

Also, cells of the mouth turn over quickly, and affected cells may not be present at the time of the investigation. Observations suggest that a common inflammatory process may contribute to the development of both psoriasis and periodontal disease.2 Standard treatment approaches for psoriasis on the skin surface are typically not appropriate for treatment inside the mouth.

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Articles On Psoriasis Locations

• Genital Psoriasis

Most folks think of psoriasis as a skin problem that shows up on spots that everyone can see, like your elbows, knees, and scalp. But symptoms of this disease may happen in places you don’t expect, like inside your mouth.

If that’s the case, it’s called oral psoriasis. It’s not a serious medical problem, but it may be uncomfortable. And it can be a struggle to get the right diagnosis. Why? It’s so rare that most doctors have never seen it before, and some aren’t sure it even exists.

Oral Psoriasis: How The Disease Can Affect Your Mouth

Its not common, but psoriasis can appear on the lips, tongue, and gums. Psoriasis can affect different parts of your body, such as the scalp, the skin on your knees and elbows, and even the nails. Less common and often overlooked is oral psoriasis, which results in symptoms in and around the mouth. Oral psoriasis can affect the inside of the cheeks, the tongue, and very rarely the gums. Like other forms of psoriasis, it can cause redness, scaling, and breaks in the skin.

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When To See A Doctor

If a person is uncertain about whether psoriasis or a different health condition is causing their symptoms, they should see a doctor.

A dermatologist, or skin specialist, will most commonly treat psoriasis. A primary care physician can refer a person to a dermatologist.

People should see their doctor about facial psoriasis symptoms when:

• areas on the face are painful or uncomfortable
• the discomfort makes it difficult to get through the day
• lesions are extending toward the eyes
• they have concerns about their skins appearance
• they are experiencing joint problems as well as facial lesions

Generally, people should see their doctor whenever their psoriasis is causing them problems or when they wish to discuss treatment options.

Tips For Living With Facial Psoriasis

Donât scratch your psoriasis. Be gentle with your skin. Use a cold compress on your psoriasis. To make a cold compress, dampen a cloth in cold water and squeeze out any extra water so itâs not dripping wet. You could also use an ice pack. But donât put ice directly onto your skin. Moisturizing the area can also help. You may want to pick a fragrance-free moisturizer.

Wear sunscreen every day. Youâd want to do this even if you didnât have psoriasis to help prevent skin cancer and wrinkles. With facial psoriasis, itâs also important to avoid sunburns because they can make your psoriasis worse.

Check on makeup. If you want to hide your psoriasis, you can ask your doctor if you can use makeup to conceal. Donât assume itâs OK to do, since some products can prevent treatment from working.

Practice stress management. Stress is a possible trigger for psoriasis. There are many healthy ways to handle stress, such as exercise, meditation, making time to relax, and spending time with people you like.

If youâre self-conscious about your facial psoriasis and itâs getting in the way of your life, consider talking to a licensed therapist. They can see if you have depression, and if you do, you can get it treated. Therapy can also help you start to build the confidence to move forward, without feeling like psoriasis is holding you back.

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Nourish Your Skin From The Inside

Taking care of your skin starts with your diet. While theres no scientific evidence that particular types of foods help with psoriasis, many dermatologists and people with psoriasis swear by healthy eating to help keep skin in good condition and prevent flare ups. Good fats are your friends! says occupational therapist Pooja Shah, OTD, OTR/L in an email interview with HealthCentral. She recommends adding ghee oil or avocado oil to your meals to make your skin glow.

Supportive Psoriasis Treatments When Using Horse Milk

Using only horse milk to treat psoriasis may be sufficient, but we recommend using horse milk along with other treatments as support.

Depending on the psoriasis type and the severity of the condition, you can combine other psoriasis treatments and remedies with Equilac® horse milk capsules:

• Shampoo for psoriasis
• Anti-inflammatory foods

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Find Ways To Manage Stress

According to the National Psoriasis Foundation, stress is a trigger for psoriasis. This makes stress management important for anyone with psoriasis, to keep flare ups to a minimum. Try to reduce your stress levels with yoga, meditation, deep breathing exercises, regular exercise, and any other activities that make you feel relaxed and happy.

Dip Your Skin In An Epsom Salt Bath

Taking an Epsom salt bath can help soothe the itching and skin discomfort associated with psoriasis, while the warmth of the water can help soften and exfoliate the flaky patches.

This simple home therapy has provided a lot of relief to many users, but is devoid of any scientific backing.

How to use:

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What Else Should I Ask My Healthcare Provider

If you have psoriasis, ask your healthcare provider:

• How can I prevent outbreaks and control symptoms?
• What medication will work best for me?
• What else should I do to improve symptoms?
• What are my options if creams dont work?
• Will psoriasis ever go away?

A note from Cleveland Clinic

Psoriasis, an itchy skin condition, can come and go throughout your life. Its related to an overactive immune response and is not contagious. If you have skin changes that arent going away, talk to your healthcare provider. There is no cure for psoriasis, but psoriasis treatments can improve symptoms. Your provider may prescribe a special cream or moisturizer or medications. Other therapies are available if creams or medicines dont work. Maintaining your overall health will also help improve symptoms.

Last reviewed by a Cleveland Clinic medical professional on 10/17/2020.

References