How To: Treat psoriasis

Almost 125 million people worldwide suffer from what is known as psoriasis, the skin disease that's marked by red, itchy, and scaly patches that are hurtful, if not visually god-awful. There can be a little hope though for psoriasis sufferers. Though you can treat and control psoriasis, characterized by dry scaly patches of skin, the progress is often erratic and cyclical, so be patient and consistent in executing these steps.

Step 1: Apply topical creams
See a doctor about prescription topical corticosteroids for mild to moderate psoriasis. Your doctor may advise limiting their use until the outbreak is under control.

Over time your skin can become resistant to traditional treatments; consult a doctor before using more aggressive treatments.

Step 2: Use salicylic acid
Use over-the-counter and diluted salicylic acid with mineral oil, and then wash it off with a coal-tar soap or shampoo.

Step 3: Avoid washing too much
Avoid washing too much or otherwise drying out your skin. When you bathe, use bath oil or colloidal oatmeal and bath salts. Dry thoroughly, blotting carefully with a thick towel.

Step 4: Try moisturizer
Apply an ointment-based moisturizer that can control the itch. Avoid cold weather, which can also irritate and worsen the condition.

Step 5: Expose to light
Expose the area to brief ultraviolet light therapy, which can slow down the cell turnover and reduce scaling. Natural sunlight is good, but less controllable so it can worsen psoriasis.

Step 6: Undergo laser therapy
Undergo laser therapy, which targets only the involved skin patch and eliminates plaques that cause the psoriasis inflammation.

Step 7: Take oral or injected drugs
Take prescription oral or injected drugs, but advisedly, as there can be severe side effects such as life-threatening infections.

Step 8: Moisturize at night
Moisturize at night and cover the psoriasis with plastic wrap. In the morning remove it and clean away scales, but always avoid cleaning with alcohol.