Psoriasis Treatment Candler-McAfee

At World’s Famous Dermatologist, we use the latest FDA-approved treatments to manage psoriasis effectively. Our holistic and science-backed approach ensures that patients receive the best care tailored to their specific needs.

Treatment for psoriasis typically focuses on controlling the symptoms and preventing flare-ups. Your dermatologist will help you choose the best treatment based on the type and severity of your psoriasis, as well as your overall health. Here are some of the most common psoriasis treatment options:

1. Topical Psoriasis Treatments

Topical treatments are applied directly to the skin and are often the first line of defense in managing mild to moderate psoriasis.

• Corticosteroids: These anti-inflammatory medications help reduce redness, swelling, and itching. Available in creams, ointments, or lotions, corticosteroids are often used for flare-ups but should be used under the guidance of a doctor to avoid side effects from long-term use.
• Vitamin D Analogs: (Calcipotriol, Calcitriol)These help slow down skin cell growth and are often combined with other treatments to improve efficacy.
• Topical Retinoids: Help remove scaly patches and improve skin texture. Derived from Vitamin A, these help reduce cell turnover and can be effective for mild to moderate psoriasis.
• Coal Tar: A treatment option that helps reduce itching and inflammation, often used for scalp psoriasis.
• Calcineurin Inhibitors: These medications suppress the immune response in the skin, useful for areas like the face or skin folds where corticosteroids are not recommended.

Salicylic Acid – Softens and removes scales for smoother skin.
Topical medications are safe and effective when used as directed by a dermatologist.

2. Phototherapy (UV Light Therapy): A Proven Treatment for Moderate Psoriasis

Phototherapy, or light therapy, involves exposing affected skin to ultraviolet (UV) light under controlled medical supervision. This slows down the overproduction of skin cells and reduces inflammation.

Types of phototherapy available at World’s Famous Dermatologist include:

• Narrowband UVB Therapy – A common and effective treatment for widespread psoriasis.Ultraviolet B light helps to reduce inflammation and slow skin cell turnover.

• PUVA Therapy (Psoralen + UVA) – A combination of UVA light and a sensitizing medication. A combination of a drug called psoralen and UVA light, typically used for more severe cases of psoriasis.

• Excimer Laser Therapy – A targeted laser treatment ideal for small, stubborn plaques.

Phototherapy is safe and effective, especially for patients who have not responded to topical treatments.

Phototherapy involves exposing the skin to ultraviolet (UV) light under medical supervision. This treatment is most effective for moderate to severe psoriasis and can help slow the rapid growth of skin cells.

Phototherapy may require multiple sessions to achieve results, but it can be highly effective for controlling flare-ups and achieving clear skin.

3. Systemic Psoriasis Treatments

Systemic Medications: Oral and Injectable Treatments for Severe Psoriasis

For moderate to severe cases, systemic medications target the immune system to reduce inflammation and prevent flare-ups. These include:

• Methotrexate – Suppresses the immune system to reduce symptoms.

• Cyclosporine – Controls flare-ups by blocking overactive immune responses.

• Apremilast (Otezla) – A newer oral medication that targets inflammation at a cellular level.

Systemic treatments require careful monitoring but offer significant relief for patients with persistent or severe psoriasis.

Systemic treatments involve medications that work throughout the body to reduce the underlying immune response that causes psoriasis. These are often used for moderate to severe cases or when topical treatments are ineffective.

• Oral Medications: These include methotrexate, acitretin, and cyclosporine, which work by suppressing the immune system and slowing down skin cell production.
• Biologic Drugs: These are injectable or intravenous medications that target specific parts of the immune system involved in psoriasis. Biologics such as etanercept (Enbrel), adalimumab (Humira), and ustekinumab (Stelara) have revolutionized the treatment of psoriasis, offering long-term relief for many patients with moderate to severe psoriasis.

4. Biologic Therapies: Targeted Treatment for Lasting Relief

Biologics are revolutionary injectable treatments that target specific parts of the immune system responsible for psoriasis. These medications have transformed psoriasis treatment by offering:

• Faster relief for moderate to severe psoriasis.

• Long-term remission with fewer side effects than traditional systemic drugs.

• Improved skin clearance and reduced joint pain (for psoriatic arthritis patients).

Common biologics used at World’s Famous Dermatologist include:

• TNF-alpha inhibitors (Etanercept, Infliximab, Adalimumab)

• IL-17 inhibitors (Secukinumab, Ixekizumab)

• IL-23 inhibitors (Guselkumab, Risankizumab)

Biologics are highly effective for patients who have not responded to other treatments.

5. Cryotherapy: A Cutting-Edge Solution for Inflammation and Itching

Cryotherapy uses extreme cold temperatures to treat psoriasis by:

• Reducing inflammation and redness

• Numbing itchy and irritated skin

• Slowing down the excessive skin cell production

This non-invasive treatment is especially beneficial for localized psoriasis patches and can be used in combination with other therapies for enhanced results.

6. Therapeutic Injections: Quick and Effective Relief

For severe flare-ups, therapeutic injections provide immediate relief by targeting inflammation directly. These include:

• Steroid Injections – Reduce inflammation and calm irritated plaques.

• Biologic Injections – Provide long-term relief from psoriasis symptoms.

• Hyaluronic Acid & Vitamin Injections – Improve skin hydration and elasticity.

These treatments are ideal for patients with stubborn or painful psoriasis plaques that don’t respond to other therapies.

7. Alternative and Natural Remedies

In addition to traditional treatments, some people with psoriasis find relief through natural remedies and lifestyle changes. These include:

• Aloe Vera: Known for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, aloe vera gel can help reduce the redness and scaling of psoriasis.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Used as a rinse or in diluted form, apple cider vinegar can soothe the scalp and reduce itching associated with scalp psoriasis.
• Oatmeal Baths: Soaking in a colloidal oatmeal bath can provide relief from itching and inflammation.
• Dietary Changes: Some studies suggest that certain dietary changes, such as reducing gluten or eating anti-inflammatory foods (like omega-3 rich fish and leafy greens), may help manage psoriasis flare-ups.

8. Lifestyle and Nutritional Support for Long-Term Psoriasis Management

Managing psoriasis goes beyond medication. Our dermatologists emphasize holistic care, including:

• Anti-Inflammatory Diet Plans – Reducing processed foods and increasing Omega-3 intake can improve symptoms.

• Stress Management Techniques – Yoga, meditation, and therapy can help prevent flare-ups.

• Moisturizing and Skincare Routine – Using psoriasis-friendly products to prevent dryness and irritation.

At World’s Famous Dermatologist, we combine medical treatments with lifestyle changes to provide lasting relief and healthier skin.

Managing stress and adopting healthy lifestyle habits can also play a role in reducing the frequency and severity of psoriasis flare-ups. Consider incorporating the following habits into your routine:

• Stress Management: Stress is a common trigger for psoriasis flare-ups, so practices like yoga, meditation, and deep breathing exercises can be helpful.
• Regular Exercise: Maintaining a healthy weight and staying physically active can improve overall health and reduce inflammation in the body.
• Moisturizing: Keeping your skin hydrated with gentle, fragrance-free moisturizers can help reduce dryness and prevent cracks in the skin that can lead to flare-ups.