Topical treatment for Psoriasis
TOPICAL TREATMENT:
Topical treatments are creams and ointments apply to the affected areas of skin. They are used to treat mild to moderate psoriasis. Topical psoriasis treatments include:
Topical corticosteroids:
These are the most commonly used medicines for treating mild to moderate psoriasis. The treatment works by slowing the production of skin cells; this reduces the inflammation and relieves the symptoms of itching. Topical corticosteroids range in strength from mild to very strong. Stronger topical corticosteroids are normally only used on small areas of skin or on particularly thick patches. Topical corticosteroids should be used only when instructed by GP. Over-use can lead to developing a tolerance to the cream and it could damage skin. Vitamin D analogues - the Vitamin D in the cream has a suppressing effect on immune system, slowing the production of skin cells. The most widely used Vitamin D analogue is calcipotriol, which is used to treat mild to moderate psoriasis.
Calcipotriol has no side effects, provided do not use more than the amount recommended by your GP.Dithranol - this has been used for over 50 years in the treatment of plaque psoriasis. It is effective in suppressing the production of skin cells and has no side effects. However, it is typically only used as a short-term treatment under hospital supervision, as it stains everything it comes into contact with including your skin. It is normally only applied to skin for five minutes before being washed off to reduce the risk of staining skin. Dithranol is often used in combination with phototherapy. Tazarotene - this cream contains a chemical similar to Vitamin A - a retnoid - this slows the production of skin cells.
It is used in the treatment of moderate plaque psoriasis. The most common side effect is skin irritation. Tazarotene can cause birth defects so it should be strictly avoided during pregnancy or if breastfeeding. It is not recommended for children or teenagers. Coal tar - this is a thick heavy oil and is probably the oldest treatment for psoriasis. How it works is not exactly known, but it reduces scales, inflammation and itchiness. Coal tar does cause staining of clothes and bedding but it has a very strong smell. It is often used in combination with phototherapy.
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