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Westchester Center for Dermatology

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We Offer a Variety of Psoriasis Treatments

Published on May 10, 2018

Psoriasis is a skin condition that can make a person feel self-conscious and embarrassed. It appears in the form of painful scaly itchy patches that are red in color. These patches can occur anywhere on the body, and they most commonly appear in areas like the elbows and knees.

Psoriasis is a persistent autoimmune skin disorder. Autoimmune conditions occur when the immune system mistakenly harms the body. In the case of psoriasis, the immune system is signaling increased skin-cell production in certain areas of the skin. The turnover rate of the cells can’t keep up with the increased growth.

We offer numerous effective treatments for psoriasis to help you clear up your skin and feel more comfortable in your daily life and social situations. The proper treatment for you will depend on the severity of your condition.

Topical Treatments

There are many topical treatments for psoriasis, such as creams, lotions, gels, and ointments. Usually, topical treatments are prescribed when the condition has recently appeared and is not very severe.

The creams and lotions can contain ingredients such as salicylic acid, anti-inflammatory compounds, and zinc complex. Others creams are categorized as topical corticosteroids or retinols. Creams can contain coal tar and calcineurin inhibitors.

It is wise to use only the topical treatments that are prescribed to you, as some creams can burn the skin if exposed to sunlight after application.

Prescription Medicines

Dr. Kriegel can prescribe medicines to treat psoriasis. Injections or oral medicines can contain methotrexate and cyclosporine. Dr. Kriegel can also prescribe biological drugs that work on the immune system.

These products are available in various brands, and Dr. Kriegel can prescribe the one best suited for you and your condition. For example, some drugs are not suitable when you are pregnant; in these cases, we will prescribe a psoriasis medicine that you can safely take. It is important to not use over-the-counter drugs for psoriasis.

Phototherapy

Phototherapy (light therapy) involves exposing the psoriasis patches to UV rays in a controlled manner. This cutting-edge light treatment is administered using a special device and a handpiece. Phototherapy is very useful in treating mild to severe psoriasis that doesn’t respond to any other treatment option.

A photosensitizing medication will be administered before exposure to the UV rays. When the UV rays hit the medication in the skin tissues, the affected cells are destroyed in a precise and safe manner.

You may need multiple phototherapy treatment sessions to see full results. Often, removal of the targeted psoriasis patches can require two to three treatments. A gap between sessions will be necessary.

After a treatment session, the skin will be very sensitive to light for a time, and staying out of the sun will be vital during this period. Speak with Dr. Kriegel for full post-treatment care instructions.

Which Treatment Option Is Right for You?

The best way to decide on the proper treatment option for your psoriasis is by meeting with Dr. David Kriegel for a consultation at our office. Dr. Kriegel, an experienced and respected dermatologic surgeon with numerous satisfied patients, will be happy to tell you more about your options and get you started with treatment.

To schedule your appointment for a consultation, contact our office today.