Psoriasis Specialist

What is psoriasis?

People with psoriasis have patches of skin that are reddened and topped with white, flaky scales. You most likely experience psoriasis on your knees, torso, and elbows, but it can appear anyway on your body. In mild psoriasis, just 3% of your body is affected. Moderate psoriasis involves 3-10% of your body, and severe psoriasis covers more than 10%.

What causes psoriasis?

Psoriasis occurs when your skin produces new skin cells at an accelerated rate. Usually, your skin produces new cells and sheds old ones about every 28-30 days. With psoriasis, your immune system goes haywire and makes the process take just three to four days. Your body cannot get rid of the old skin cells at this rate, so while your body creates new cells, the old ones pile on top forming the plaques that are characteristic of psoriasis. The exact reason why your immune system causes skin cells to be produced at a faster rate is not known.

What are the symptoms of psoriasis?

Psoriasis symptoms can vary from person to person. They may include:

• Silver scaly patches
• Red, inflamed areas of skin
• Small, red spots
• Dry skin that can crack and bleed
• Nails that separate from the nail bed or develop pits
• Itching and sore skin

If you experience any of these symptoms, contact the team at McGuiness Dermatology & Plastic Surgery for evaluation.

How do dermatologists treat psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a chronic, lifelong condition that cannot be cured. The symptoms can be managed, however. Controlled sun exposure and bathing in special salts are easy treatments that are safe and natural. At McGuiness Dermatology & Plastic Surgery, the doctors may offer prescription creams to treat plaques and ease any itching or redness. Specialized light therapy may also help. In severe cases, injectable and oral medications offer relief but do have side effects so they require regular in-office monitoring and blood work. Each area affected by psoriasis may require a different treatment, depending on the sensitivity of the skin. For more information about psoriasis treatment, call one of the locations of McGuiness Dermatology & Plastic Surgery or book an appointment online. Learn more about our treatment options here!