Treating Your Psoriasis

Discover the many ways to control your psoriasis and its symptoms.

Psoriasis is an autoimmune skin condition that causes red, scaly patches, known as plaques, to develop on the surface of the skin. These plaques can develop anywhere but are most often found on the elbows, knees, and scalp. While you may wish to try some home remedies first, it’s always best to talk with our Glendora, CA, dermatologist Dr. Amarpaul Sidhu about the best options for treating your psoriasis symptoms. While home remedies may ease symptoms, they are typically more effective when paired with a comprehensive treatment plan created by a qualified dermatologist.

The Goal of Managing Psoriasis

While there is no cure for psoriasis, there are ways to manage your symptoms. According to the National Psoriasis Foundation, the main goal of psoriasis treatment is for us to find the right medications and treatments to reduce plaques to only about 1 percent of the body (or less) in three months. If this doesn’t happen, we may continue with the treatment for another three months and monitor it for any new developments or we may turn to another treatment option.

Types of Psoriasis Treatment Options

What works for one person may not work for another person, which is why it can take time to find the “sweet spot” when it comes to treating your psoriasis symptoms. When you come into our Glendora, CA, office for follow-up care, make sure to discuss with our dermatologist any concerns you may have or whether your current treatment plan is providing you with the results you are looking for. Common ways to treat psoriasis include,

Lifestyle changes and supplementation: Your diet could have an impact on psoriasis symptoms. Certain supplements such as fish oil or omega-3 fatty acids may help with inflammation, while an anti-inflammatory diet that is low in trans fats and sugar may also help improve symptoms.

Topical medications: Whether we recommend over-the-counter or prescription topical gels or ointments will depend on the severity of your symptoms. Mild flare-ups may respond to simple over-the-counter gels containing coal tar or salicylic acid, while those with more serious flare-ups may benefit from prescription-strength steroid creams or tacrolimus.

Oral medications: Depending on the severity of your symptoms, our dermatologist may recommend an oral medication known as a biologic. Biologics are incredibly strong and act directly on the immune system. This type of medication is typically recommended for severe unresponsive psoriasis cases, as well as for those dealing with widespread psoriasis symptoms.

Light therapy: Light therapy or phototherapy has also been shown to be effective for more severe psoriasis symptoms or when plaques cover a large part of the body. UVB light can be used to slow the development of new skin cells, to prevent new plaques from forming.

We know how challenging it can be to manage psoriasis. If you’re frustrated by your current treatment plan, then turn to our Glendora, CA, skin doctor, Dr. Sidhu, at Foothill Dermatology Medical Center. To schedule an appointment, call (626) 852-3376 today.