Psoriasis Treatments: How to Get Rid of
Topical Treatments:
1. Corticosteroids: These creams, ointments, or lotions reduce inflammation and relieve itching and scaling. Corticosteroids can be mild, moderate, or high-potency, and the strength prescribed depends on the severity of your psoriasis.
2. Vitamin D Analogues: These synthetic forms of vitamin D help slow the growth of skin cells. Examples include calcipotriene (Dovonex) and tacalcitol (Curatoderm).
3. Retinoids: These topical medications derived from vitamin A can help reduce scaling and inflammation. Tazarotene (Tazorac) and bexarotene (Targretin) are common retinoid treatments for psoriasis.
4. Calcineurin Inhibitors: These drugs (such as tacrolimus and pimecrolimus) suppress the immune system's activity and can be suitable for sensitive areas like the face and genitals.
5. Salicylic Acid: This keratolytic agent helps shed scales and can be found in many over-the-counter psoriasis treatments.
6. Coal Tar: Derived from coal, coal tar preparations can slow skin cell growth and reduce scaling. Tar-based shampoos and ointments are commonly used for scalp psoriasis.
7. Anthralin: This ingredient helps slow down skin cell growth and reduce scaling. Anthralin is usually prescribed for chronic plaque psoriasis and requires careful use to avoid skin irritation.
Oral and Injectable Medications:
1. Methotrexate: An immunosuppressive drug that slows down skin cell growth. Methotrexate is commonly used for moderate-to-severe psoriasis and requires regular blood tests to monitor for potential side effects.
2. Cyclosporine: Another immunosuppressive drug that can help reduce inflammation and slow skin cell growth. Cyclosporine is usually used for short-term treatment due to its potential for serious side effects.
3. Acitretin: A retinoid medication used for moderate-to-severe psoriasis. Acitretin can cause birth defects and should not be used by women of childbearing age without effective contraception.
4. Apremilast (Otezla): An oral medication that targets a specific immune system molecule to reduce inflammation. Apremilast is generally well-tolerated, but it can cause gastrointestinal side effects.
5. Biologics: These injectable medications target specific proteins involved in the inflammatory process of psoriasis. Examples include adalimumab (Humira), etanercept (Enbrel), infliximab (Remicade), and ustekinumab (Stelara).
Light Therapy (Phototherapy):
1. Ultraviolet B (UVB) Phototherapy: This involves exposing the skin to UVB light, which can slow skin cell growth and reduce inflammation. Narrowband UVB (NB-UVB) therapy is a common form of phototherapy.
2. Psoralen plus Ultraviolet A (PUVA) Therapy: This combines psoralen, a medication that makes the skin more sensitive to UV light, with UVA light exposure. PUVA therapy is often used for severe psoriasis.
Lifestyle Modifications:
1. Avoid Triggers: Identify and avoid triggers that can worsen your psoriasis, such as stress, certain medications, alcohol, and certain foods for some individuals.
2. Moisturize Regularly: Keep your skin well-hydrated to prevent dryness and relieve itching.
3. Get Regular Exercise: Physical activity can improve overall health and reduce stress, potentially benefiting psoriasis symptoms.
4. Manage Stress: Stress can trigger psoriasis flares. Practice relaxation techniques like meditation, deep breathing, or yoga to help manage stress.
5. Healthy Diet: Eat a well-balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids (e.g., fish, walnuts, flaxseeds) may have anti-inflammatory effects.
It's essential to work with a dermatologist to develop a personalized treatment plan based on the severity and type of your psoriasis. Treatment recommendations may change over time, and ongoing monitoring is crucial to manage your condition effectively and minimize flares.