Psoriasis is a common skin condition that can occur at any age, but is more common in adulthood. The symptoms can appear on multiple parts of the body and can be very irritating. The condition creates patch-like areas that become easily inflamed. Consistent itching makes this condition worsen and can even lead to considerable scarring. It is a similar skin condition to eczema, although it usually affects the outer side of a joint, such as the elbows or knees, and it is more common among adults.
Psoriasis is scaly in appearance, with what appears like dandruff flaking from the skin. Often the patches have a different colour than the rest of the skin – normally silver or red. Unlike cold sores, the condition is not contagious, but it is nonetheless extremely aggravating for the sufferer.
At the Victorian Cosmetic & Dermal clinic you will finally find relief. You will discover a treatment option that will work for you and minimise your symptoms, if not remove them altogether. These treatments are pain-free and do not cause any discomfort whatsoever.
Symptoms and Treatment Options Available for Psoriasis
The telltale symptoms of psoriasis are consistent and brought about by multiple factors. The more common culprits for this condition are:
- A climate that lacks sufficient moisture for rehydration of the skin and scalp
- Extreme stress
- Toxins such as nicotine and air pollution
- Allergies to various medications
- Excess acidity in the digestive system
While these are the more common triggers for an outbreak of psoriasis, there are other triggers too, some of which are hereditary. It is true that the symptoms and the issue itself cannot be cured, but Victorian Cosmetic Dermal Clinics can provide effective therapy that works at minimising these worrisome symptoms.
What about Skincare?
Physical Sunscreen
While small amounts of UV can aid in the treatment of Psoriasis, excess UV exposure and heat can aggravate symptoms, and it is still important to keep the surrounding healthy skin protected. Chemical sunscreens can be very irritating on a sensitive or impaired skin, however Physical sunscreen (those containing zinc oxide and titanium dioxide) are not. This is because chemical sunscreens are typically absorbed by the skin, causing blockages, irritation and aggravating the symptoms of psoriasis. Physical Sunscreen, however, sits on and binds to the surface of the skin, creating an instant blanket like protection, reflecting and/or scattering the sun’s rays. Cosmedix Hydrate+ and Cosmedix Reflect work to deflect the heat given off from the sun, and repel the heat and energy from sun exposure which can trigger those suffering with psoriasis.
Keeping Skin Moist
Keeping the skin moist is one of the easiest and effective things you can do for psoriasis prone skin. Moisture helps a Psoriasis skin heal and reduces symptoms such as dryness, soreness, itching and scaling.
Using cleansers or washes that strip the skin of moisture can severely aggravate a psoriasis skin, as it can strip the skin’s protective layer or ‘acid mantle’. The acid mantle has a pH of 5.5 and is made up of a mixture of oil, lactic acid, and amino acids. The acid mantle is responsible for fighting infection and environmental stresses to the skin. If your cleanser’s pH level is too alkaline or acidic, the mantle is disturbed, and skin aggravation and flare ups of dermatitis, eczema and psoriasis may result. Cosmedix Benefit Clean is pH balanced (5.5) and can be used on the face or body. It contains Herbal Amaranth which encourages balanced hydration and prevents moisture loss, Sandalwood to soothe and calm irritation, and is Sodium Lauryl Sulphate free, which, with a pH of 10, can be very drying and irritating.
Finding an appropriate moisturizer can be difficult for someone with psoriasis as moisture requirements can vary from client to client. A skin analysis will be performed by your VC Dermal Clinician to determine your ideal treatment plan for maximum results.
Laser Therapy As a Treatment Option for Psoriasis
Low-intensity laser therapy (LILT) is one of the treatment options that yields very positive results. It is painless, yet at the same time comforting, and is most effective with a topical medication as well. This is especially true for severe cases of psoriasis.
We encourage you to contact us today for an initial consultation with an experienced dermal therapist. To find out more ways to manage your psoriasis read about psoriasis causes and treatments, or simply click the button below to book your initial consultation.
