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
How Is Psoriasis Diagnosed And Treated
Psoriasis often has a typical appearance that a primary care doctor can recognize, but it can be confused with other skin diseases , so a dermatologist is often the best doctor to diagnose it. The treatment of psoriasis usually depends on how much skin is affected, how bad the disease is , or the location . Treatments range from creams and ointments applied to the affected areas to ultraviolet light therapy to drugs . Many people who have psoriasis also have serious health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and depression. Some people with psoriasis also have an inflammatory condition which affects their joints, called psoriatic arthritis.
Psoriatic arthritis has many of the same symptoms as other types of arthritis, so a rheumatologist is often the best doctor to diagnose it. The treatment of psoriatic arthritis usually involves the use of drugs .
Psoriatic disease may be treated with drugs or a combination of drugs and creams or ointments.
Take Care Of Your Feet
Start by taking good care of your feet. Wash them regularly with a gentle soap that does not dry the skin or trigger flares. Your doctor can offer medical advice to help you find a soap that will work for you. If you are particularly prone to outbreaks of psoriasis on your feet, an oatmeal foot bath may also soothe your skin.
When your feet are clean and dry, use a gentle moisturizer to keep your feet well hydrated. Some lotions with urea or salicylic acid are specifically designed for people diagnosed with psoriasis.
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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.
Psoriasis Causes And Risk Factors
Doctors arenât sure what causes psoriasis, but they know that genes and your immune system play a major role. About 40% of people with psoriasis have a close family member with the disease. Many of the genes linked to psoriasis are those that help run your immune system. In addition to your genes, these things can make you more likely to get psoriasis:
- Smoking
- Stress
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Other Important Factors To Consider
What is soap for psoriasis?
The soap for psoriasis is something that can provide relief and counter the symptoms. A person who suffers from psoriasis needs relief due to itchiness and pain that may arise when the symptoms are already thriving. They may come from time to time so prevention is essential. A bar of soap should be able to stop symptoms from growing. Its the best one as it can maintain the health of your skin.
How does it work?
The soap for psoriasis intends to heal psoriasis provides relief for the users. Its about eradicating redness, inflammation, flaking, itchiness, or irritation. The ingredients added in the soaps formula can moisturize or hydrate.
Psoriasis loves to inhabit dry skin, so it will be persistent and the condition gets worse. Its an important thing that the soap can provide the necessary amount of moisture. Some soaps can sweep away redness and itchiness efficiently, but they may require the use of moisturizer after the wash.
Detoxification and exfoliation can also happen as there are minerals and nutrients available in the soap. Some contain anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties to cease the overgrowing of skin cells that trigger psoriasis.
Who is this for?
Individuals who want to eliminate the symptoms or those who want to stop them in advance need it. The soap that people use to fight psoriasis has a wide scope of use. Some of the products are considered psoriasis soap and shampoo.
What are the different types of psoriasis soaps?
Topical Treatments For Psoriasis:
Some creams and lotions that can ease the dryness and itch are available over the counter with others, youll need a prescription from a doctor. It takes a bit of trial and error to find what topical treatment may work best for you. Here, some guidance to the most common types of creams and lotions for psoriasis.
Salicylic acid
This is the active ingredient in treatments that can help banish scales by softening them and making the outer layer of skin shed. You can find salicylic acid in many forms . These treatments are designed to work in combo with others, because getting rid of the scales can help other treatments do their work more efficiently. If its a strong version, salicylic acid can irritate the skin and make hair more likely to break off, and that can lead to temporary hair loss, says the NPF.
Topical steroids
The NPF advises not to use a topical steroid for longer than three weeks without consulting a doctor, as well as to avoid stopping the use of one suddenly because that can cause a flare-up of your psoriasis. Another reason to use these under the care of a physician: Topical steroids can be absorbed via the skin and have an impact on internal organs when used for a long period of time or over a wide area of skin.
Vitamin D3 treatments
Vitamin A treatments
Coal tar
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How Psoriasis On The Face Can Take A Psychological Toll
Having psoriasis in general is linked to emotional problems.
We do know that in patients with psoriasis, the prevalence of depression may be as high as 50 percent, Dr. Farah says. But she suspects that depression may be even more common among people who develop psoriasis on their face.
Its there for everyone to see, and this bothers some people more than others, Farah says.
Best For Elbows: Dove Dermaseries Fragrance
The elbows are another common spot where psoriasis appears, says Miller. And for that particular area, this balm can’t be beaten. Its thick enough to address the thicker skin on your elbows credit a petroleum-jelly blend thats great for any type of super dry skin, psoriasis-prone included. Still, it absorbs quickly without feeling greasy, so you can even use it in the morning before getting dressed.
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Treatment For Psoriasis On The Feet
If you think that you might have psoriasis on your feet, make an appointment with a podiatrist or a dermatologist. These experts can help determine whether psoriasis or another condition may be causing your dry, flaky, itchy feet. Clinical examination of your skin and possibly a skin biopsy will help confirm the diagnosis.
If psoriasis is determined to be the cause of your symptoms, there are several ways you and your doctor can help alleviate your discomfort. Keep in mind that it may take a while to find the right treatment.
How Many People Have Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a fairly common skin condition and is estimated to affect approximately 1%-3% of the U.S. population. It currently affects roughly 7.5 million to 8.5 million people in the U.S. It is seen worldwide in about 125 million people. Interestingly, African Americans have about half the rate of psoriasis as Caucasians.
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Ways To Use Essential Oils For Psoriasis
How do you use essential oils for psoriasis relief? Your essential oils for psoriasis treatment can be applied topically, added to your bath water, or used in a diffuser. There are also a number of essential oil blends that can be used for psoriasis relief.
The following is more detail on how to use essential oils for psoriasis relief.
Dermarest Psoriasis Medicated Moisturizer
If you are looking for the moisturizing type of treatment, then you should try this moisturizer that is specifically made for those who have psoriasis. This is tested by some of the best dermatologists, so expect this product to be a safe and an effective treatment for your skin condition.
This moisturizer can offer you a full regimen of scale removal, and other skin soothing products that can help you experience immediate relief from all your uncomfortable, itchy, and painful symptoms of your psoriasis.
This moisturizer is gentle to the skin therefore, you can use this product every day without having any problems. Dermarest contains active ingredients which can help stop the itch and comforts the irritated are of your skin.
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Otc Treatments And Home Remedies
In addition to using steroids, rinsing the facial skin with a saline solution can also help reduce discomfort and pain.
Available OTC treatments include:
- tazarotene cream or gel, an off-label treatment that currently has approval for treating acne
- UV light, which a person should only use under a doctors supervision
If psoriasis affects the skin around the eyes, a doctor will advise taking great care when applying medications to the area. This is because many OTC psoriasis treatments can cause damage to the eyes that may lead to the development of glaucoma or cataracts.
That said, doctors sometimes recommend two off-label eczema treatments that may work especially well for treating psoriasis on the face.
These prescription drugs are tacrolimus ointment and pimecrolimus cream . People using these medications should apply them very carefully and sparingly, being sure to avoid the eyes.
These medications are unlikely to cause glaucoma. However, using them may lead to uncomfortable side effects, such as a stinging sensation.
In addition to using these topical medications, there are several precautions a person can take to reduce irritation as much as possible. These include:
- using gentle, non-soap cleansers to keep the skin clean
- applying moisturizers often
- regularly putting on sunscreen to reduce the effects of UV radiation
Practicing frequent and thorough self-care can help a person control their facial psoriasis as much as possible.
Using Psoriasis Creams Correctly
The main rule for using medicated psoriasis creams is to apply them exactly as directed by your pharmacist or doctor. You can also consult the patient information leaflet supplied with the product if you cant find this, you can search for the product on the Medicines.org website and read the leaflet online.
Medicated creams and ointments tend to work better when the skin is soft and moisturised, so its a good idea to use your topical treatment after applying an emollient.
When applying emollients you should smooth a large amount of product gently into the skin, in the direction your hair grows. If you rub it in too vigorously this can aggravate the skin and make your symptoms worse.
After applying your emollient you should wait around 30 minutes for it to sink into the skin. At this point you can carefully apply your medicated ointment or cream.
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Psoriasis On The Toenails
The toenails are actually part of the skin. They grow out of the nail plate, which is directly under the cuticle. Because of abnormal growth in the nail plate, psoriasis may affect your toenails.
Toenails that are affected by psoriasis may look thick and ridged. They may lift from the nail bed, develop discoloration, or become pitted over time. Once the nail has grown, it cannot be altered unless it is cut or filed. Treating psoriasis on the toenails usually means treating the skin around the nail, including the nail bed, the cuticle, and the nail folds around the edges of the nail. Nails are difficult to treat but some of the newer biologics have greater success.
Emilia Face Salt Cleanser
One of the most annoying things about psoriasis on the skin is the buildup of flakes and dead skin cells that block the pores. What you need to combat this is a gentle exfoliating scrub, like this salt cleanser by Emilia.
Unlike other scrubs, this cleanser doesnt contain plastic microbeads that can destroy the environment. Instead, it uses salt from the Dead Sea. This salt scrub exfoliates the skin manually to slough off any dead skin cells on the surface of the skin.
It cleans deeply to remove all impurities and excess oil from the skin, to make sure you dont break out because of clogged pores. It leaves a magnificently clean and fresh feeling on the skin after rinsing.
Vitamins and minerals work together to detoxify the skin and improve its overall health. These include magnesium, chloride, and bromide, which are known to keep the skin healthy.
Its also enriched with potassium and calcium, which strengthen and re-energize skin cells to make them healthier and more resilient to damage and conditions like psoriasis.
- Gently exfoliates the skin to get rid of any dead skin cells and flakes
- Contains Dead Sea salts and minerals to detoxify the face
- Environmentally-friendly, doesnt contain plastic beads
- Leaves skin feeling clean and fresh
- Strengthens and energizes skin cells to make them healthier
- Has fragrance that might be irritating to the skin and nose
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Jason Dandruff Relief Treatment Shampoo
To buy: $12 target.com
This shampoo relies on salicylic acid, which is traditionally considered an acne treatment, but also fights dandruff, and the scaling and flaking of psoriasis on the scalp and face, Dr. Dray says. Jason is a safe brand and popular for being cruelty-free, she says. Just keep in mind that salicylic acid can be drying, Dr. Menter adds, so if you use this shampoo as a face wash, make sure to follow it up with a good facial moisturizer.
Tea Tree Essential Oil
You can use tea tree oil for psoriasis due to its antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties. Tea tree oil can also regenerate the cells of the body, stimulate the immune system, and reduce swelling and inflammation.
Research published in the journal Skin Pharmacology and Physiology in 2012 suggested that the terpinen-4-ol in tea tree oil may have a potential anti-psoriatic effect.
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Eucerin Gentle Hydrating Cleanser
Sometimes, all your skin needs is to go back to basics. Switching to a simple and gentle cleanser that hydrates the skin might be all it takes to reduce the frequency of your psoriasis breakouts. For that, this foaming cleanser by Eucerin works nicely.
This face wash cleanses thoroughly to make sure no grime is left on your skin, so you can feel refreshed after a rinse. Its also rich in moisture, leaving your skin soft after cleansing.
The formula is infused with urea, a humectant that draws moisture from the air and locks it into your skin to keep it lightly hydrated.
This face wash creates a soft and creamy lather, giving you a luxurious, satisfying washing experience. Its easy to rinse off too, and never leaves a greasy or waxy film on the skin.
The formula doesnt contain any soap or fragrance, making it a safe option for those with ultra-sensitive skin. It only contains a handful of ingredients that make for a mild yet effective cleanser.
You get a lot of bang for your buck with this pack because in a single set, you get three huge pump bottles of this product. Its great for stocking up at home.
- Cleanses and moisturize the skin thoroughly, leaving it soft and fresh
- Infused with urea, a humectant that hydrates the skin lightly
- Creates a soft, creamy lather that doesnt leave a greasy feeling
- Doesnt contain any soap or fragrance to cater to ultra-sensitive skin
- Gives awesome value for money, because you get three bottles in one set
Best Ointment: Dermaer Psoriasis Medicated Cream
With a thicker consistency, this ointment is choice for dabbing onto smaller spots, ideal for anyone who suffers from random, smaller areas of plaques and scale. It touts 2% salicylic acid in a steroid- and fragrance-free formula thats also hypoallergenic.
The scalp is a common spot where psoriasis can crop up. Admittedly, it may be less visible here than when its on your arms or legs, but the discomfort can be intense. We know, we know, this isnt a cream, but really who wants to apply a cream on their scalp? Well let this one sneak onto the list, especially because it came highly recommended for scalp psoriasis by both of the derms we spoke to.
It contains coal tar, the other FDA-approved ingredient for psoriasis, which, has been shown to calm inflammation in the skin and slow the growth of skin cells, helping with the itch and scaling associated with psoriasis, notes Birnbaum. FYI, to fully reap the benefits, Miller recommends using it two to three times per week and letting it sit on the scalp for at least a few minutes before rinsing.
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