Corticosteroids come in a variety of types. There are sprays, creams, gels, ointments, solutions, and foams. The type you choose depends on personal preference, as well as location of the psoriasis (e. g. , use a liquid for psoriasis on the scalp), but if you’re concerned about choosing the right brand talk to your doctor. [2] X Trustworthy Source American Academy of Family Physicians Organization devoted to improving the health of patients, families, and communities Go to source Strengths vary. Ideally, you should use stronger types on tough areas like elbows and knees and use a lighter variety on your face and underarms. Creams are usually applied once or twice a day, but you should limit your use of stronger steroids. Overuse can cause rashes and permanent skin thinning and other damages. [3] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source
Salicylic acid prevents scaling and other rash-like symptoms. You do not need a prescription to buy salicylic acid but you should consult your doctor before adding any additional creams, especially if you are taking other medications. Salicylic acid is often combined with corticosteroids and other treatment options.
Coal tar comes in a variety of forms. You can get coal tar infused shampoo, bath wash, and creams. [6] X Trustworthy Source American Academy of Dermatology Professional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologists Go to source Coal tar reduces skin flakiness and also reduces the appearance of psoriasis. Coal tar’s main drawback is that it is very messy. It can stain clothing, furniture, and carpeting and also has a strong, pungent odor. [7] X Trustworthy Source American Academy of Dermatology Professional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologists Go to source
Calcipotriene (Dovonex) is the most widely prescribed cream that contains vitamin D. It is used alone or in conjunction with other treatment options. The main drawback is potential skin irritation, which can worsen existing psoriasis. Unfortunately, Vitamin D analogues do not work for everyone. Ask your doctor if these would be helpful for you. [9] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source
Anthralin has been known to remove scales for some patients, resulting in smoother skin. Unfortunately, anthralin has drawbacks. It can cause skin irritation and stains anything it touches, including hard surfaces like countertops. If you use anthralin, you should only leave it on for a short period of time before wiping it off. [11] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source
Retinoids decrease inflammation by normalizing DNA activity in the skin. This can help with symptoms of psoriasis. Sensitivity to the sun is a common side effect of retinoids. You should be sure to use sunscreen while taking topical retinoids. [13] X Research source Retinoids are not recommended for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. [14] X Trustworthy Source American Academy of Dermatology Professional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologists Go to source
Usually, oral retinoids are prescribed if your psoriasis does not respond to other treatment options. The main downside is that symptoms of psoriasis often return when treatment ceases. Hair loss and lip inflammation may occur while on oral retinoids. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not take oral retinoids as they can cause severe birth defects.
In low doses, most patients experience minimal side effects on methotrexate. An upside to the medication is that it can stall psoriatic arthritis in some patients. [17] X Trustworthy Source American Academy of Dermatology Professional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologists Go to source Side effects may include upset stomach, fatigue, and loss of appetite. Longterm use is not recommended, however, as severe side effects such as liver damage and decreased production of red and white blood cells can occur if the medication is used too long. [18] X Research source Topical application of liposomal methotrexate hydrogel is scientifically proven to be quite effective compared to conventional medication.
Enbrel, infliximab (Remicade), adalimumab (Humira) and ustekinumab (Stelara) are all given by intravenous, subcutaneous, or intramuscular injection. Usually, your doctor will only recommend such procedures if your psoriasis does not respond to other therapies and is causing arthritis. [20] X Research source Biologically, such treatments should block interaction between certain cells in order to reduce skin inflammation. If you are taking these medications, you will probably be screened for tuberculosis as the meds have a strong effect on the immune system. They are usually a last resort effort and should only be used with extreme caution and under supervision of a doctor. [21] X Trustworthy Source American Academy of Dermatology Professional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologists Go to source
Regular exposure to small amounts of sunlight can help with psoriasis. If you live in a sunny area, light therapy can begin with natural light. [23] X Trustworthy Source MedlinePlus Collection of medical information sourced from the US National Library of Medicine Go to source Talk to your doctor before you add natural sunlight exposure to your skin care regimen. She should be able to tell you the safest way to get sunlight given your skin condition and medical history. [24] X Research source
This is an excellent choice if you only need to treat specific patches of skin. You can talk to a doctor or dermatologist about where and how to get UVB phototherapy in your area. Narrow band UVB therapy is a type of UVB phototherapy in which smaller beams of light treat specific areas of your skin. Treatment is usually administered two to three times a week. The downside is that burning and irritation may be more severe with narrow band therapy. Goeckerman therapy is a treatment option that combines UVB therapy with coal treatments. As coal makes skin more receptive to UVB light, using the treatment options together boosts the effectiveness of both. [26] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source
For added help, add colloidal oatmeal, Epsom salts, or Dead Sea salts to the water as these have properties that help soothe and moisturize skin. Keep water lukewarm and don’t use harsh soap. Both can irritate skin. Strive for lukewarm water and milder soaps.
Put moisturizers on right after you shower when your skin is still moist from bathing; this helps lock in the moisture. Avoid heavily scented moisturizers, as these can sometimes irritate psoriasis.
Talk to your doctor about any medications you are on to see if it’s safe to drink on your meds. If you go to an event where people are drinking, it might help to bring a non-alcoholic beverage you enjoy, like a soda, juice, or tea. This way, you can still feel like you’re indulging yourself without compromising your psoriasis treatment. Explain to friends and family members why you need to avoid alcohol. If you’re a social drinker, and feel tempted to indulge when going out, having support from your friends can help you abstain from drinking.
Fish oil, which can be purchased at most health food stores or supermarkets, have helped relieve psoriasis symptoms for some. Studies have been mixed on its effectiveness and generally show that while it reduces itching and flaking it might not reduce the size of skin patches. If you’re willing to try fish oil, talk to your doctor first as it can interact poorly with some medications in high doses. Folic acid can be taken in pill form. It reduces symptoms of psoriasis for some, but you should talk to your doctor before adding either to your care regimen. Herbs, like Oregon grape cream, avocado and Vitamin B12 creams, aloe vera, and oregano oil can sometimes treat symptoms of psoriasis if used in moderation. Use them according to instructions on the package. With oregano oil, you should always dilute it with water or juice. It should not be used if you’re pregnant as it can potentially cause miscarriage. [32] X Trustworthy Source MedlinePlus Collection of medical information sourced from the US National Library of Medicine Go to source
Coldwater fish, such as salmon, lake trout, albacore tuna, mackerel, and herring are good sources of Omega-3 fatty acids. Olive oil, walnuts, flaxseeds, and pumpkin seeds are good plant sources of Omega-3s. Eat fruits and vegetables that are all colors of the rainbow, such as carrots, strawberries, squash, mangoes, kale, spinach, and blueberries.
