Psoriasis Treatments

The Dermatology Department at HMS Mirdif Hospital offers a variety of psoriasis treatments, including:

• Topical treatments: These are applied directly to the skin and can help to reduce inflammation and itching.
• Light therapy: This uses ultraviolet (UV) light to treat psoriasis.
• Systemic treatments: These are medications that are taken by mouth or injection and can help to control psoriasis from the inside out.

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin condition that causes red, itchy, scaly patches on the skin. There is no cure for psoriasis, but there are many effective treatments available that can help to manage the symptoms and improve the quality of life.

Topical Treatments

Topical treatments are applied directly to the affected skin. They are often the first-line treatment for psoriasis, especially for mild to moderate cases. Some common topical treatments include:

• Corticosteroids: These medications reduce inflammation and can help to relieve itching and redness.
• Salicylic acid: This ingredient helps to remove scales and soften the skin.
• Calcineurin inhibitors: These medications work by suppressing the immune system in the skin.
• Vitamin D analogs: These medications help to normalize the growth of skin cells.
• Coal tar: This is an older treatment that is still sometimes used for psoriasis. It can be effective, but it can also be smelly and irritating to the skin.

Light Therapy

Light therapy, also known as phototherapy, uses ultraviolet (UV) light to treat psoriasis. UV light can help to slow the growth of skin cells and reduce inflammation. There are two main types of light therapy:

• UVA: This type of light therapy uses longer wavelengths of UV light and is typically used for mild to moderate psoriasis.
• UVB: This type of light therapy uses shorter wavelengths of UV light and is typically used for more severe psoriasis.

Systemic Treatments

Systemic treatments are medications that are taken by mouth or injection. They are typically used for moderate to severe psoriasis that has not responded to other treatments. Some common systemic treatments include:

• Retinoids: These medications are derived from vitamin A and can help to reduce inflammation and regulate skin cell growth.
• Methotrexate: This medication is used to treat a variety of autoimmune conditions, including psoriasis. It can be effective, but it can also have serious side effects.
• Cyclosporine: This medication is also used to treat a variety of autoimmune conditions. It can be effective, but it can also have serious side effects.
• Biologics: These medications are newer and more targeted treatments for psoriasis. They work by blocking the immune system's attack on the skin cells.

Lifestyle Changes

In addition to medical treatments, there are a number of lifestyle changes that can help to manage psoriasis. These include:

• Moisturizing: Regular moisturizing can help to keep the skin hydrated and reduce itching.
• Avoiding triggers: Some people find that certain things trigger their psoriasis flares, such as stress, smoking, alcohol, and certain medications. Identifying and avoiding these triggers can help to reduce flares.
• Managing stress: Stress can worsen psoriasis symptoms. Finding ways to manage stress, such as exercise, yoga, or meditation, can be helpful.
• Maintaining a healthy weight: Being overweight or obese can worsen psoriasis symptoms. Losing weight can help to improve psoriasis symptoms.

If you would like to make an appointment with a dermatologist at HMS Mirdif Hospital, you can call them at 800 467 (HMS)