Psoriasis Treatments

Psoriasis is a skin problem causing quick growth of skin cells, resulting in red or white patches on the skin. Different from normal gradual growth of skin cells and flake off after four weeks, psoriasis causes new skin cells to move quickly to the skin surface in days. Their increase in number on the skin surface form patches that are thick (plaques).Psoriasis treatments aim to alter the cycle causing quick growth of skin cells, therefore reducing plaque formation and inflammation. They also aim at smoothing the skin by removing the formed scales. Topical treatments such as ointments and creams are used to treat mild to moderate symptoms of psoriasis when applied on the skin.
Dovonex cream contains vitamin D that is good for reducing the rate at which skin cells grow.
Tazorac and Avage creams normalize activities of DNA thus decreasing inflammation. The creams may have a side effect of irritating skin.
Salicylic acid helps in sloughing dead skin cells and reducing scaling. It's available in scalp solutions and shampoos to treat psoriasis.
Coal tar treats psoriasis by reducing itching, scaling and inflammation. It's available in shampoos, oils and creams. Moisturizers reduce scaling and itching and prevent skin dryness thereby reducing the pain associated with the psoriasis.