Psoriasis 101
Are you dealing with psoriasis or wondering if you might have it? At Deseret Dermatology, we see patients every day who ask the same question. Our team is here to evaluate your skin, guide you through treatment options, and help you manage this chronic condition effectively. Here’s what you should know about psoriasis and its treatment.
Do I Have Psoriasis?
A confirmed diagnosis should come from a board-certified dermatologist, but there are a few hallmark signs that may indicate psoriasis:
Thick, red, scaly patches on the skin that don’t go away
Commonly appear on elbows, knees, scalp, or the crease at the top of the buttocks
Itching, burning, or soreness in affected areas
Painful, swollen, or stiff joints
Regular creams or lotions don’t improve dryness or scaling
What Causes Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin disease, meaning the body’s immune system mistakenly accelerates skin-cell growth. The exact cause isn’t fully understood, but it likely involves a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
People with a family history of psoriasis are at higher risk. Certain genes may increase susceptibility, and specific triggers can lead to flare-ups.
Common Triggers
Stress
Skin injury (cuts, scrapes, sunburn)
Cold, dry weather
Viral or bacterial infections such as strep throat
Smoking
Treatment for Psoriasis
Psoriasis can range from mild to severe, and treatment depends on how extensive the condition is and how it affects daily life. At Deseret Dermatology, we develop individualized treatment plans that may include topical, systemic, or light-based therapies, along with lifestyle guidance.
Topical Medications
Topical corticosteroids are often the first line of defense for mild psoriasis. Examples include triamcinolone or clobetasol ointments or solutions.
These reduce inflammation and slow skin-cell turnover, helping to flatten thickened patches.
They’re typically applied twice daily for several days at a time, followed by short breaks, to maintain effectiveness and minimize side effects.
Light Therapy
Controlled exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light under medical supervision can slow abnormal cell growth. This approach is useful for patients whose psoriasis affects large body areas or doesn’t fully respond to topical therapy.
Systemic and Biologic Medications
For moderate to severe cases, oral or injectable medications may be considered.
Commonly prescribed biologic medications, such as Dupixent (dupilumab), Taltz (ixekizumab), or Humira (adalimumab), target specific parts of the immune system involved in inflammation and rapid cell growth.
These medications are typically reserved for patients whose psoriasis significantly impacts quality of life or who are at risk for psoriatic arthritis.
Your dermatologist will evaluate whether a biologic or systemic medication is appropriate based on your overall health, medical history, and treatment goals.
Lifestyle Support
Because stress, smoking, and infections can worsen psoriasis, many patients benefit from stress-reduction strategies, regular moisturizing, gentle skin care, and avoiding triggers when possible.
Can Psoriasis Go Away?
Psoriasis is a long-term autoimmune condition that often follows a cycle of flare-ups and remissions. While there’s no cure, many patients achieve excellent control of their symptoms with consistent care.
Modern therapies, including biologics and light therapy, can greatly reduce scaling, itching, and inflammation, helping patients return to normal routines and confidence in their skin.
Take the Next Step
If you’re struggling with persistent skin symptoms or suspect you might have psoriasis, Deseret Dermatology can help. Our dermatology team provides expert diagnosis and a full range of treatment options; from topical medications to advanced therapies with compassionate, personalized care.
Call 385-333-3376 or schedule online to book your appointment today.