Skin Concerns
Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that ranges in severity from bothersome to debilitation and affects more than 7 million Americans. Psoriasis causes cells to build up on the skin’s surface too quickly, resulting in the formation of thick, scaly skin patches called plaques.
There are six types of psoriasis, the most common of which are plaque psoriasis and guttate psoriasis. Plaque psoriasis is characterized by dry, red skin plaques, or raised patches, with silvery scales, while guttate psoriasis is characterized by smaller, finer plaques and typically occurs in young adults and children.
Other types of psoriasis include inverse psoriasis, which involves less scaling and larger areas of inflamed, dry skin, and pustular psoriasis, which involves scaly plaques with pus-filled sores and nail symptoms.
Erythrodermic psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis are more severe forms of psoriasis. Erythrodermic psoriasis affects most of the body, leaving it covered in a bright red, inflamed rash that burns and itches, while psoriatic arthritis involves joint stiffness, swelling and pain.
There are six types of psoriasis, the most common of which are plaque psoriasis and guttate psoriasis. Plaque psoriasis is characterized by dry, red skin plaques, or raised patches, with silvery scales, while guttate psoriasis is characterized by smaller, finer plaques and typically occurs in young adults and children.
Psoriasis Symptoms
Although symptoms of psoriasis typically depend on the type and severity of the condition, some symptoms psoriasis sufferers may experience include:
- Red, raised plaques that can crack or bleed
- Loose, silver skin scales
- Burning, itching skin
- Crusted plaques on the scalp
- Nail discoloration and pitting
- Joint stiffness and pain
Treatments
Temporary treatment for active psoriasis flare-ups may involve topical corticosteroid treatments, the strongest of which is Clobex spray, as well as over-the-counter skin moisturizers or gels. Topical psoriasis treatment products that contain the following ingredients may also be effective:
- Coal tar (Scytera foam and Drithrocreme)
- Salicylic acid (over-the-counter hair care products)
- Vitamin D analogues (Vectical and Taclonex ointment)
- Retinoids (Tazorac cream or gel)
- Light Therapy
- Topical Medication
- Oral Medication