What Is Good for Psoriasis?

Those who suffer from psoriasis must endure itching, cracking and sometimes bleeding skin, as well as the embarrassment of the characteristic red and scaly patches. Luckily, there are some soothing products, from natural treatments to prescribed medications, that will really help the condition. Those with psoriasis must act in order to manage their condition.

Natural Treatments

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One of the most effective and popular natural treatments for psoriasis is shea butter. Pure, unrefined shea butter is more effective that the highly processed butter has been stripped of its natural vitamins and nutrients. Shea butter is very fatty and melts with the skin's warmth, so it spreads on easily. It's a rich, healing emollient that contains vitamins A and E, as well as cinnamic acid. Tea tree oil and aloe vera are also thought to be quite soothing to those with psoriasis as well, healing the damaged areas and keeping the skin from cracking further.

Changing the Diet

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Many experts believe that experimenting with one's diet can be a key factor in helping manage psoriasis. Eating more foods that contain Omega-3 fatty acids, such as fish and nuts, may help psoriasis. Adding more fruits and vegetables to the diet may work as well. Some individuals with psoriasis go so far as to employ a vegetarian or vegan diet in an attempt to get their condition under control.

Topical Prescription Treatments for Psoriasis

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There are a few different topical treatments most commonly prescribed by physicians for psoriasis. One of them is Dovobet, a corticosteroid. While this cream may cause mild itching at the site of application, research shows positive results in patients using this cream.

The other popular treatment is Dovonex, a derivative of vitamin D. While this cream may take up to several weeks to start working, it has been prescribed for some time to patients with psoriasis. Dovonex may be used alone or in combination with other prescription treatments, including Diprosone, Valisone and Tazorac.

Oral Prescription Treatments for Psoriasis

Some physicians may prescribe oral medications for their patients to take to treat their psoriasis. Methotrexate is one such medicine and it has an immunomodular effect. It works at the cellular level to help repair skin and it works on the nails and hair as well.

Cyclosporin, an immunosuppressant, is another popular orally administered medication for psoriasis. However, this medication is typically used only for severe cases because there can be serious side effects and the cost is also quite high.

Light Therapy

Many physicians will recommend light therapy to patients with psoriasis. UVB light is often used, so the patient will have a risk of sunburn. It is not known how UVB light actually works to help the condition, but it is effective for some patients. While the progress is slow, success in some patients has caused physicians to continue to prescribe it.