Psoriasis Treatment in Phoenix, AZ

Characteristics of Psoriasis

Psoriasis is an autoimmune skin condition that causes your body to make skin cells too rapidly. The excess skin cells result in scaly, itchy patches on your body. Psoriasis patches can develop anywhere on your body. The most common areas of your body which may be affected are your:

• Knees
• Elbows
• Lower back
• Scalp

Psoriasis patches can form single small patches or come together to make one large area. Psoriasis patches can itch severely and be extremely uncomfortable.

Classification of Psoriasis

Psoriasis can be classified as mild, moderate, or severe, depending on the percentage of your body that is affected by psoriasis patches. Mild psoriasis, which involves 3% of your body, moderate psoriasis, which involves 3% to 10% of your body, and severe psoriasis, which involves over 10% of your body.

Treatment of Mild Psoriasis

For mild cases of psoriasis, your dermatologist may recommend treatment to control itching, which may include:

• Prescription-strength shampoos, bath treatments, and moisturizing creams
• Prescription-strength topical medications with steroids
• Laser or light treatment to limit or get rid of psoriasis patches

Treatment of Moderate to Severe Psoriasis

For moderate to severe psoriasis, the providers at A to Z Dermatology may recommend some of the same treatment options for mild psoriasis, plus medications to stop your skin cells from growing as quickly, remove scales, and smooth your skin. Your dermatologist may recommend:

• Medications to reduce inflammation and reduce skin cell production, including Ilumya and Otezla
• Biologic medications to suppress the immune system, including Skyrizi, Humira, Tremfya, and Cosentyx