Hello and welcome to healthcaremagic
Psoriasis is characterized by the presence of well defined, thick scaly plaques mainly involving the scalp, and extensor surfaces like elbow, knee, lower back etc. The disease has a chronic course and the course is fluctuated by remissions and relapses, however there is no permanent cure for psoriasis.
Specific topical treatment options for psoriatic plaques consists of ointments containing potent steroid with or without
salicylic acid. These are available in ointment form for plaques involving the body and as lotions/gels/foam form for
scalp psoriasis. Topical Vitamin D analogues like
calcipotriol,
calcipotriene etc are also effective for localized
plaque psoriasis.
Besides specific remedies for psoriasis, moisturisers form an important part in the management of psoriasis because of the thick scaly nature of the plaques. Moisturizers enhance the penetration of topical active ingredients as well as prevents or delays side effects like skin atrophy etc.
Unlike extensive psoriatic disease for which both oral and topical treatment is required, for limited disease topical treatment alone is effective.
Phototherapy, particularly NB-UVB phototherapy is one of the several treatment options for psoriasis. It is effective and well tolerated by most. Moreover, NB-UVB Phototherapy is one of the safest options for treatment of psoriasis and can also be used even in pregnant females as well as children.
Other treatments for widespread disease includes Immunosuppressives like
methotrexate, cyclosporin.
Oral retinoids e.g Acitretin can also be used for widespread psoriasis either alone or together with phototherapy.
Hope this helps
Regards