Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a common chronic inflammatory skin condition that results in itchy, dry patches of skin. This condition is found in approximately 2% of the population and tends to first appear in early adulthood and can be quite distressing in appearance and uncomfortable with its associated itch. Psoriasis tends to run in families and can occasionally be associated with joint disease as well. While many people can feel trapped with their constant red itchy patches of skin, at Arlington Dermatology we want you to know that we are here to help and have board-certified dermatologists that are very experienced with your condition. From diagnosis to treatment, we will help you better understand your condition and provide treatment options that address your priorities and primary concerns.

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What Causes Psoriasis?

Man with sick hands, dry flaky skin on his hand with vulgar psoriasis, eczema and other skin diseases such as fungus, plaque, rash and blemishes. Autoimmune genetic disease.

Psoriasis is not contagious and is not an infection. The cause of psoriasis is still not completely understood, but our current understanding suggests that certain immune cells are overactive in the skin resulting in itchy, scaly, pink patches over certain areas of the body. Every day we are developing a better understanding of the various immune cells that cause psoriasis which helps guide our future treatment options.

We also know that this condition is genetic and tends to run in certain families more than others. Psoriasis is characterized typically by a chronic course that lasts over a lifetime that will occasionally be interrupted by periods of “flare-ups”. 

If you have psoriasis, one of these flare-ups can be triggered by:

  • Stress
  • Injury 
  • Infections
  • Side effects of medication
  • Cold, dry weather
  • Tobacco use
  • Alcohol 

What Types of Psoriasis Are There?

The most common type of psoriasis is plaque psoriasis, in which patches of thick, raised, dry skin form over various parts of the body. Some other subtypes of psoriasis include:

  • Scalp psoriasis
  • Nail psoriasis
  • Guttate psoriasis 
  • Inverse psoriasis 
  • Pustular psoriasis 
  • Erythrodermic psoriasis

Who Gets Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a fairly common condition estimated to affect approximately 2% of the world’s population. It affects women and men equally and can appear at any age, but typically first appears either at age 20-30 or age 50-60. Most people who develop psoriasis have white skin, but the condition can appear in people of all races and ethnicities. We also know that the condition tends to run in families and has a strong genetic component. 

How Can I Prevent Psoriasis?

Psoriasis cannot be prevented at this time, but if you have psoriasis, you can learn to avoid certain triggers to prevent flare-ups as much as possible. You may also find some over-the-counter or at-home treatments beneficial to minimize your skin findings and symptoms. Some options include:

  • Frequently moisturizing the skin
  • Using products containing coal tar
  • Applying hydrocortisone cream or ointment to relieve inflammation and itching
  • Choosing products that contain calamine, camphor, hydrocortisone, or menthol to relieve itching

Why Treat Psoriasis?

Psoriasis can bother some individuals cosmetically whereas others are predominantly concerned about associating itching. It can also sometimes progress and worsen with time, and many patients report improved sleep and self-confidence when their symptoms are relieved. Furthermore, certain patients may have associated joint or nail disease that can be as concerning as their skin lesions themselves, Regardless of your reason to pursue treatment, a board-certified dermatologist can help address your concerns and discuss your treatment options in detail.

I feel so fortunate to have found Arlington Dermatology! My entire experience from booking — check-out was easy. The practice is sparkling inside and Dr. Livingood was incredibly through and friendly. He made it easy to understand each step of my appointment and all of the communication I received before and after was helpful and clear. Highly recommend!
Katelyn M.

How Can I Treat Psoriasis?

Close-up of the legs of a man suffering from chronic psoriasis on a white background

While psoriasis is not curable, there are many treatment options available that can substantially improve your skin and even completely control the disease while you are on therapy. These treatment options range from common topical creams and lotions to complex injectable medications (ex. biologics). Some common treatment options include:

  • Topical corticosteroids
  • Topical retinoids
  • Otezla
  • Biologics (ex. Humira)
  • Methotrexate
  • Acitretin
  • Laser Treatment (ex. Excimer laser) 
  • Light therapy (ex. phototherapy)

At Arlington Dermatology our board-certified dermatologists are very experienced in treating psoriasis and can help discuss treatment options in-depth with you to help find a customized treatment that matches your specific needs and lifestyle.

Schedule an Appointment 

If you are dealing with psoriasis, you do not have to suffer through itchy, dry patches or inconvenient and uncomfortable flares Instead, schedule an appointment with a board-certified dermatologist who can recommend a treatment plan that’s tailored to your specific symptoms and needs. 

To schedule an appointment at Arlington Dermatology, please call our office or request an appointment online.

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