Psoriasis is a skin disease/condition that can be quite easily irritated and can show up at any point in a persons lifetime. It is hereditary and doesn't always begin right at birth. It is a think, silvery and scaly patch of skin that normally surrounds a reddened area of skin. This red part can be quite itchy and the dry, flaking scales around it doesn't help the itching one bit. It is a condition that is usually triggered by environmental factors but also stress. If a person is predisposed to psoriasis it can be triggered at any age.
Psoriasis isn't contagious, but is also incurable. It can, however, be kept at bay with treatment depending on how severe the breakouts. The condition is usually present on elbows, knees, back and scalp, usually anywhere that tends to be the driest body part on that person. Because these scaly patches become quite thick, they require exfoliation prior to treatments. I usually suggest a good sugar or sea salt scrub, sisal mitt or both. (A sisal mitt is the shower glove that has a gritty texture to help slough off dry, dead skin cells).
Once the dead, scaly patches have been exfoliated (not to the point of pain, irritation or oozing), the area can be treated. Treatments usually consist of coal tar preparations, steroid crèmes (usually with prescription, meant for severe cases. This type of treatment can cause scarring due to the effect on the skin. Use with caution), vitamin a crèmes (a prescription is required, this treatment will cause photosensitivity. Direct sunlight after application is not recommended, also redness may occur for a period of time before the area begins to look and feel better. Usually meant for severe cases). Ultraviolet light therapy has also been used for treatments and is often suggested instead of the above because there are less "complications".
Sometimes visiting a tanning bed for 2-3 minutes a week can do the trick, not enough to build a tan or to harm the skin, but enough to get the vitamin D needed to help the body regenerate itself. I recommend a stand up bed to the skin is not in contact with the bulbs or the cleaners that are used to sanitize them. Also no tanning lotions containing any accelerators or tingle, as they may irritate the areas. I usually like to use a sunscreen on any sensitive areas such as lips and nipples, but for the rest of the body I would go without a lotion and then moisturize with a urea based product or a sensitive skin moisturizer meant for conditions such as this.
I must make this clear as well, I am not a doctor, nor am I a dermatologist. I am an esthetician and can explain the treatments and conditions, however if something is quite severe I highly recommend seeing a dermatologist to treat the affected area. Be aware, though, that a dermatologist will most likely prescribe a cortisone(steroid) crème or vitamin A crèmes as they are sure to treat the symptoms, but if you're not keen on the side effects be sure to let them know to find other treatments suitable for your needs.
Have a lovely day!
Presley Charlotte :)
There is so much in this article that I would never have thought of on my own. Your content gives readers things to think about in an interesting way. Thank you for your clear information.
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