Psoriasis: How to Remove Dead Skin
Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that causes red, itchy, scaly patches of skin. The scaly patches are made up of dead skin cells that have built up on the surface of the skin. Removing these dead skin cells can help to improve the appearance of psoriasis and reduce itching and irritation.
There are a number of ways to remove dead skin from psoriasis-affected skin. Some of the most common methods include:
* Salicylic acid: Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that helps to break down the bonds between dead skin cells and the skin's surface. It can be used in a variety of products, including lotions, creams, gels, and soaps.
* Glycolic acid: Glycolic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that also helps to break down the bonds between dead skin cells and the skin's surface. It can be used in a variety of products, including lotions, creams, gels, and peels.
* Lactic acid: Lactic acid is another AHA that helps to break down dead skin cells. It is often used in combination with other AHAs or BHAs.
* Urea: Urea is a natural moisturizer that helps to soften and loosen dead skin cells. It can be used in a variety of products, including lotions, creams, and ointments.
* Oatmeal: Oatmeal is a natural exfoliant that helps to remove dead skin cells without irritating the skin. It can be used in a variety of products, including scrubs, masks, and bath soaks.
In addition to these over-the-counter treatments, there are also a number of prescription treatments that can be used to remove dead skin from psoriasis-affected skin. These include:
* Topical corticosteroids: Topical corticosteroids are medications that help to reduce inflammation and itching. They can be used in a variety of forms, including creams, ointments, and lotions.
* Vitamin D analogs: Vitamin D analogs are medications that help to slow down the growth of skin cells. They can be used in a variety of forms, including creams, ointments, and lotions.
* Retinoids: Retinoids are medications that help to improve the appearance of psoriasis-affected skin. They can be used in a variety of forms, including creams, ointments, and gels.
If you have psoriasis, talk to your doctor about the best way to remove dead skin from your skin. There are a number of different treatment options available, and the best option for you will depend on your individual condition.