Treatment Options for Psoriasis

Treatment Options for Psoriasis

Find out how to get his autoimmune disorder under control.

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder that impacts the skin, leading to the development of red, itchy, scaly, and sometimes painful patches (also known as plaques) on the body. While psoriasis is a chronic condition, it can be managed appropriately by simply turning to our Santa Barbara, CA, board-certified dermatologists Dr. Alexis Dougherty, Dr. Louise Stewart, and Dr. Rikk Lynn at Kind Dermatology and Medical Spa. Here are some of the ways to manage psoriasis.

Find Ways to Reduce Stress 

Getting a handle on your stress could be the answer to helping you better manage flare-ups when they occur. Find what works best for you and stick with it. Maybe that means taking 30 minutes a day to walk around the neighborhood, ground in nature, take a yoga class (even virtually), or use a mindfulness app. Whatever helps ease stress can also improve your psoriasis symptoms, which is a win-win.

Consider Supplementation 

Some certain herbal remedies and supplements could provide improve psoriasis flare-ups. Still, it’s important that you speak with our Santa Barbara, CA, doctors before adding any supplements or herbs to your current routine (especially if you take any prescription medications or have any preexisting health conditions). Studies have found that probiotics, turmeric and fish oil may improve symptoms of psoriasis.

Enjoy Sun, Safely 

Few things are more glorious than some good ole Santa Barbara, CA, sun. If you have psoriasis, you may find that just 10-15 minutes in the sun a day could improve psoriasis plaques. Of course, this isn’t your excuse to sunbathe, as the sun’s UV rays damage the skin. Talk with our team about the benefits of sunlight or photodynamic light therapy for psoriasis. Photodynamic light therapy may benefit those dealing with moderate to severe forms of psoriasis.

Consider Topical Treatments 

Mild psoriasis is most often treated with topical medications; however, the location of the plaques will play a role in which therapies and medications our team recommends. For example, we understand that individuals dealing with plaques of the feet or hands may deal with social ramifications and functional deficits. In this case, topical medications may be used along with light therapy.

Biologics Can Treat Severe Cases

Suppose you have a severe cause of psoriasis or a treatment-resistant form. In that case, we can also prescribe a powerful drug known as a biologic, which will suppress the immune system’s response to reduce the severity of your flare-ups. While biologic agents aren’t suitable for everyone, you may benefit from this drug if you deal with moderate to severe psoriasis.

Kind Dermatology and Medical Spa and its Santa Barbara, CA, medical team provide you with the comprehensive care you need to get your psoriasis under control. Call our office today at (805) 250-9891 to schedule an evaluation and discuss treatment options with us.