What Is Plaque Psoriasis And How Is It Treated?

Plaque psoriasis is a skin condition in which the cells of the skin turnover quickly and accumulate, leading to the thick skin and scaling. This skin thickening can feel unsightly, and you may find it embarrassing to show your skin. It can also feel irritating, as it will itch from time to time, and the scales will flake off much like dandruff. Plaque psoriasis can be found on a number of places on the body, including the elbows and other joints, as well as the scalp. If you have psoriasis, there is a treatment that can help, although there is no cure. Read on for helpful tips to treat your plaque psoriasis.

Get Stress Levels Under Control

Plaque psoriasis can flare up when your stress levels are raised. This flare-up can make your psoriasis much worse, but with an easing in your stress levels, you can decrease these flares and help get your psoriasis under control. To ease your stress, you must first figure out what is causing your stress. If your stress is from work, try taking on less at your workplace, or changing your job to something a little less stressful. You can help decrease and manage your stress with exercise and a change in your routine, and by taking time for yourself to read a book, get a massage, or do some yoga.

Get Outside For Vitamin D

Sunlight is going to help your plaque psoriasis, as will vitamin D. You can get some vitamin D from sunlight, or in pill form, but the sun will offer you ultraviolet light, which can also be beneficial in treating your plaque psoriasis. Get outside for some fresh air and sunlight to ease your psoriasis and aid in treatment.

Using Salicylic Acid

Salicylic acid can remove dead skin cells gently and effectively, which can ease your psoriasis. You can find salicylic acid in a number of creams over the counter, or your dermatologist may prescribe you something a little more potent if needed. Do not apply this to your skin without your dermatologist recommending it or okaying this treatment. 

Treatment of plaque psoriasis should be done only by your dermatologist. If you suspect you have plaque psoriasis, make an appointment with your dermatologist for a thorough exam and for a proper treatment for your specific type of psoriasis. Discuss other treatment options with your dermatologist that do not require medication, such as sunlight or stress relief.


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