Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects millions of people worldwide. This condition causes the skin cells to multiply rapidly, leading to the formation of raised, red, and scaly patches on the skin’s surface.

Psoriasis can cause considerable discomfort, but with the right treatment and lifestyle modifications, you can take control of this condition and lead a healthy and active life. In this article, we will discuss some solutions that work for managing psoriasis.

1. Topical Treatments

Topical treatments are the most common types of medications used to treat psoriasis. These medications come in the form of creams, ointments, gels, and lotions that you apply directly to the affected skin.

Topical treatments are effective for mild-to-moderate psoriasis and can help reduce inflammation, itching, and scaling of the skin. The most commonly used topical treatments are:.

Corticosteroids – These medications are anti-inflammatory and can reduce itching and redness of the skin.
Calcitriol – A form of vitamin D that can slow down the growth of skin cells.
Salicylic acid – Helps to remove dead skin cells and scales.
Tazarotene – A topical retinoid that normalizes skin cell growth.

2. Phototherapy

Phototherapy involves exposing the skin to ultraviolet light to slow down the growth of skin cells. This treatment is effective for moderate-to-severe psoriasis and can help reduce itching, scaling, and inflammation.

Phototherapy is administered in a doctor’s office or clinic and can be done in various forms:.

UVB therapy – Involves exposure to UVB light that penetrates the skin and slows down the growth of skin cells.
PUVA therapy – Involves exposure to UVA light after taking a medication to sensitize the skin to light. This procedure is not without risk and can increase the risk of skin cancer and premature aging.
Excimer laser – A concentrated beam of UVB light that is used to treat a specific area of psoriasis.

3. Systemic Medications

If topical treatments and phototherapy do not provide relief, your doctor may prescribe systemic medications. These medications work throughout the body to reduce the inflammation associated with psoriasis.

However, these medications come with serious side effects and are reserved for severe cases of psoriasis. These medications include:.

Methotrexate – An immunosuppressant that works to reduce skin cell growth.
Cyclosporine – An immunosuppressant that works to reduce the immune system’s response.
Biologic drugs – These medications are antibodies that target specific proteins or cells in the immune system that cause psoriasis.

4. Lifestyle Changes

Along with medication, lifestyle changes can help manage psoriasis symptoms. These changes include:.

Moisturizing regularly – Keeping the skin hydrated helps to reduce itching and scaling.
Avoiding triggers – Certain triggers such as stress, smoking, alcohol, and cold weather can worsen psoriasis symptoms.
Eating a healthy diet – Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help reduce inflammation associated with psoriasis.
Exercising regularly – Exercise helps to reduce stress, which can improve psoriasis symptoms.

5. Alternative Treatments

Various alternative treatments can help manage psoriasis symptoms. These treatments do not replace traditional treatments but can complement them. These alternative treatments include:.

Aloe vera gel – Has anti-inflammatory properties and can help soothe the skin.
Apple cider vinegar – Can help remove scales and improve itching.
Tea tree oil – Has anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties and can help reduce inflammation and itching.
Fish oil – Contains omega-3 fatty acids that can help reduce inflammation associated with psoriasis.

Conclusion

Psoriasis can be a challenging condition, but with the right treatment and lifestyle modifications, you can take control of your symptoms and lead a normal life.

Remember to consult with your doctor before starting any new treatments or making significant lifestyle changes.