Treatments for psoriasis: many options available
Psoriasis is a dermatological skin condition in which the skin cells multiply too rapidly. The dead cells tend to accumulate on the surface of the skin, which yields rough unsightly patchy areas that burn and itch intensely. At least 1 out of every 50 people suffers to some degree from this itchy painful malady. Psoriasis skin care products come in a wide variety, both available OTC and by prescription. While a topical remedy or
psoriasis medication is usually the first line of defense, there are many other kinds of treatments available.
Phototherapy is a method of treating psoriasis that involves ultraviolet (UV) light therapy. The UV light used to treat this skin problem is not the same as the UV light used for tanning. Tanning is done under UV1 light while psoriasis treatments are done under UV2 light. Still, some questions are raised about the possibility of phototherapy increasing the chance of skin cancer. Phototherapy treatments are done in 3 to 5 sessions each week, and are usually administered in conjunction with an oral medication called a psoralen. The patient must wear protective glasses, or the treatments might cause cataracts.
It is often easier and less expensive to use topical treatments
Topical ointments are generally less expensive and simpler to carry out. Some of the treatments available include cortisone cream, vitamin D3, coal tar, and retinoids. Corticosteroids come in different strengths, both prescription and OTC. They are usually applied twice a day. Using them over a long period of time has been found to cause the skin to become thinner and can cause other side effects, including rosacea of the face. Vitamin D3 treatments in topical form are called calcipotriol or calcipotriene. They are available in ointments, creams, and solutions for the scalp. Sometimes they are combined with corticosteroids to treat with more effectiveness. Retinoids, such as the medication Tasorac, work like a steroid cream but without the side effects. Coal tar, as the name suggests, is a treatment that is a bit smelly and causes staining, but it does help in some cases and can be gotten without a prescription.
An Indian spice called curcurmin, more commonly known as turmeric, is being researched for its alleged effectiveness as a remedy for psoriasis. It has long been used for arthritis, and psoriasis sufferers often acquire their own form of arthritis. It's used in great quantities in Indian curries, so is probably safe to use as an oral skin care remedy.