Psoriasis is a condition in which skin cells grow faster than usual, resulting in dry and scaly patches on the skin. Medical professionals believe environmental factors and genetics influence the condition, which is not contagious.
If you have psoriasis, a qualified dermatologist can help you find relief from your symptoms. Board-certified cosmetic surgeon and dermatologist Dr. Lenore Sikorski at Natural Image OC can help patients dealing with psoriasis in Orange County by creating a customized treatment plan.
Symptoms of Psoriasis
Signs of psoriasis include:
- Patchy rashes
- Small scaly spots
- Dry or cracked skin
- Rashes that flare up for several weeks or months and then lessen
The most common form of the condition is plaque psoriasis, which causes dry and itchy skin patches. Nail psoriasis affects fingernails and toenails, and Guttate psoriasis mainly affects young adults and children. Inverse psoriasis is found on the skin folds of the groin, buttocks, and breasts.
Pustular psoriasis is rarer and results in pus-filled blisters. Erythrodermic psoriasis is the least common version of the condition and can cover the body with a peeling, itching, and burning rash. The most common form of the condition is called plaque psoriasis and causes dry and itchy skin patches. Nail psoriasis affects fingernails and toenails, and Guttate psoriasis mainly affects young adults and children. Inverse psoriasis is found on the skin folds of the groin, buttocks, and breasts.
Pustular psoriasis is rarer and results in pus-filled blisters. Erythrodermic psoriasis is the least common version of the condition and can cover the body with a peeling, itching, and burning rash.
What Causes Psoriasis
It is estimated that 60 million people worldwide have psoriasis. Though the cause of this condition is unknown, it is thought to be an issue with the immune system, where cells that fight infections attack healthy skin cells by mistake. Psoriasis is often triggered by:
- Injuries to the skin
- Cold or dry weather
- Rapid withdrawal from corticosteroids
- Infections like strep throat or skin infections
- Heavy alcohol consumption or smoking, as well as exposure to secondhand smoke
- Certain medications, including lithium, drugs for high blood pressure, and antimalarial drugs
Dr. Sikorski can help you determine what triggers your symptoms and develop a treatment plan that reduces or alleviates your psoriasis so you can get back to fully enjoying life in Orange County.
When to See a Dermatologist for Psoriasis
The National Psoriasis Foundation recommends that anyone with psoriasis see a dermatologist. This is particularly important if your symptoms worsen or your current treatment is not working. A dermatologist may also offer more specialized care than a general practitioner.
How Dermatologists Treat Psoriasis
Our team at Natural Image OC works with psoriasis patients in Orange County to create customized treatment plans based on individual needs. The goal of treatment is to help clear up skin, alleviate itching, and prevent symptoms from worsening.
When recommending a treatment plan, Dr. Sikorski will consider the severity of your symptoms, health history, and treatments you have tried previously. She may recommend several types of medications and procedures.
Topical Medication
If you have mild psoriasis, you may be able to manage it when medication that you apply to your skin. Topical medications include corticosteroids, synthetic vitamin D, topical calcineurin inhibitors, salicylic acid, tazarotene, roflumilast cream, and tapinarof cream.
Light Therapy
Also known as phototherapy, this treatment uses specialized light bulbs or lasers. The procedure can slow the growth of skin cells, help manage an overactive immune system, reduce inflammation, and lessen itch.
Medication That Works Throughout the Body
If your symptoms are more severe, Dr. Sikorski may prescribe medication that helps the rest of your body, particularly your joints. Options include apremilast, biologic, cyclosporine, methotrexate, retinoid pills, or TYK2 inhibitors.
Find Relief from Psoriasis in Orange County
If your psoriasis is flaring up or you have developed new symptoms, Dr. Sikorski and the team at Natural Image OC are here to help. Whether through medication, light therapy, or both, we will build a personalized treatment plan to make managing your psoriasis in Orange County easier. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.