Psoriasis Treatment

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin condition primarily affecting adults, although children can also have it. Common symptoms include red, scaly spots on the skin that can be itchy and unsightly. At New England Dermatology & Laser Center, our board-certified dermatologists, physician assistants, and nurse practitioners provide safe and effective psoriasis treatment options at our Springfield, Longmeadow, Northampton, and Westfield, Massachusetts, clinic locations.

What Is Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease in which the body’s immune system attacks normal tissues. Psoriasis causes the skin cells to multiply 10 times faster than normal, resulting in thick, scaly patches on the skin. This condition can affect any individual regardless of gender or age, although it primarily affects adults.

Possible Triggers for Psoriasis

An external or internal trigger can cause a change in your immune system and result in a psoriasis flareup. Common triggers include:

• Cold weather
• Certain foods
• Alcohol
• Stress
• Illnesses such as ear infection, bronchitis, or respiratory infection

Where on Your Body Can You Get Psoriasis?

You can get psoriasis patches on any area of your body, but the most characteristic locations are:

• Scalp
• Face
• Elbows & knees
• Bellybutton
• Crease of buttocks
• Hands & feet

Treatment depends on where on your body you have psoriasis and how much skin is affected.

Treatments for Psoriasis

Treatment options range from topical products to light therapy to prescription drugs. Your provider will help you choose a treatment based on the severity of your condition and other factors.

Topical

Non-Prescription Topical Products

Many patients find relief with over-the-counter topical treatments for their psoriasis. Treatments that contain ingredients such as salicylic acid and coal tar help reduce inflammation and slow the growth of skin cells. Over-the-counter topical products don’t involve the side effects associated with stronger treatments.

Topical Steroids

Corticosteroids can manage and improve psoriasis by reducing inflammation in the body. Corticosteroids are available in many forms, including cream, ointment, lotion, gel, foam, or shampoo, and are usually applied once a day during a flare. Your provider may prescribe a lower-potency corticosteroid if your psoriasis is mild to moderate.

Vitamin D Analogs

Synthetic forms of vitamin D are known to slow skin cell growth and may be used alone or in conjunction with topical corticosteroids. They come as a cream, solution, ointment, or foam.

Retinoids

Tazarotene is available in gel or cream form and applied once or twice daily. It can cause skin irritation and increased photosensitivity.

Calcineurin Inhibitors

Some areas, such as around the eyes, are too sensitive for steroid creams or retinoids. Calcineurin inhibitors help soothe the rash and reduce scaly buildup.

Systemic Medications

If you aren’t a good candidate for topical treatments or light therapy, or if these treatments haven’t worked for you, you may be prescribed systemic medication. We offer the latest oral and injectable treatment options.

Phototherapy

Phototherapy uses sources of controlled artificial or natural light to slow down the growth of skin cells. When skin cell growth decreases, fewer scaly patches of psoriasis plaque result. We utilize both UVA and UVB light treatments.