Psoriasis is a skin condition that creates red patches of skin with white, flaky scales. Psoriasis is a genetic disease (it runs in families) but is not contagious. There is no known cure or method of prevention, but treatment can successfully minimize the symptoms and speed healing.
Treatment
At Boulevard Dermatology, we apply a combination of strategies to address your unique condition.
Oral medications. This includes acitretin, cyclosporine, and methotrexate. Your doctor will recommend the best oral medication based on the location, type, and severity of your condition.
Biologics. A new classification of injectable drugs, biologics are designed to suppress the immune system. These tend to be very expensive and have many side effects, so they are generally reserved for the most severe cases.
Light Therapy/Phototherapy. Controlled exposure of skin to ultraviolet light has been a successful treatment for some forms of psoriasis. Two primary light sources are used:
- Sunshine (both UVA and UVB rays). Sunshine can help alleviate the symptoms of psoriasis but must be used with careful monitoring to ensure that no other skin damage takes place. It is advised that exposure to sunshine be limited to controlled, short bursts.
- PUVA. This treatment combines a photosensitizing drug (psoralens) with UVA light exposure. This treatment takes several weeks to produce the desired result. In some severe cases, phototherapy using UVB light may lead to better results.
XTRAC Light Treatment. The only FDA-cleared excimer laser clinically proven to slow and reverse the growth of psoriatic cells.
For more information on laser treatments, schedule an appointment with Boulevard Dermatology today!