Psoriasis Treatment
While psoriasis may feel frustrating, we’re here to help you at the Dermatology & Cutaneous Surgery Institute. Our dermatologist in Wellington offers skin treatment options for those suffering from psoriasis and other skin conditions that effect your life and your happiness.
What Is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a common skin condition where old skin cells stop shedding and new skin cells grow faster than normal. As more skin cells begin to build up, they start to stick together, causing scaly dry patches called plaques. These plaques vary in size and tend to be itchy.
What Causes Psoriasis?
This skin condition can happen at any age, but it is more common in people between the ages of 10 and 30 years old. There are multiple factors that can contribute to the buildup of these skin cells, but studies have shown that it is caused by an immune system response in the body. White blood cells prevent us from getting sick by attacking bacteria and viruses, so these cells actually attack the body’s skin cells, causing the body to make new cells more often. These cells then pile up on the surface of the skin, where you can start to see psoriasis.
Factors that can trigger psoriasis flares include:
- Stress
- Infections
- Lithium, prednisone, and hydroxychloroquine medications
- Cold, dry weather
- Heavy alcohol consumption
- Smoking
Treating Psoriasis
During your consultation with Dr. Wassef, factors such as your overall health, medical history, skin health, skin condition, and much more will be evaluated to determine which method of psoriasis treatment will work best for you. While there’s no true cure to this skin condition, this skin condition responds to several different methods of treatment:
- Topical ointments
- Corticosteroid creams
- Topical retinoids
- Vitamin D creams
- Non-biologic medications
- Light therapy and light treatments
If you think you may have psoriasis, our medical dermatology staff can help to relieve your discomfort. Schedule an appointment with DCSI to manage your dry, scaly patches of skin and improve your overall quality of life. We’re here to help you maintain happy, healthy skin, once and for all. Contact us here.
Infographic added in January 2021.