Psoriasis, a chronic skin condition characterized by red, itchy, and scaly patches, can be quite challenging to manage. While there is no one-size-fits-all solution, various creams and topical treatments can help alleviate its symptoms and provide relief. It is important to learn about various psoriasis creams to handle the condition. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or seeking alternative treatments, below are some options at your disposal for managing this skin condition effectively.

Salicylic acid
Salicylic acid is a useful ingredient for various reasons in skin treatment and skin products. Its use in psoriasis treatment promises the softening of the scales caused by psoriasis while simultaneously working on reducing their thickness. It is important to employ careful usage of salicylic acid-containing skin products, as suggested by the doctor. Using too much salicylic acid might irritate the skin, giving rise to itchy, red, and dry skin patches. The product can also be used after a bath.

Coal tar
Coal tar is an effective ingredient in most common psoriasis products like bath solutions, creams, lotions, ointments, and shampoos. The active ingredient is used to reduce itching, flaking, redness, scaling, and swelling present because of psoriasis. However, large amounts of coal tar-containing products may give rise to skin irritation. It is, therefore, recommended to start with a small amount of the product for a patch test before applying it on the affected areas.

Corticosteroids
Corticosteroids are used to reduce inflammation and treat the psoriasis patches present on the skin. However, these are not supposed to be used daily. Corticosteroids can be found in foams, shampoos, and OTC creams. Corticosteroids with lower potency may also be present with other ingredients in various creams and lotions. The products with weaker concentrations are meant for use on sensitive areas of the skin, such as skin’s folds and the face.

Stronger corticosteroids should be strictly used under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Some of these topical solutions are formulated based on the part of the body, severity, age, and other factors. The doctor might suggest patients use stronger products according to the instructions and only for as long as advised. Once the treatment time is met, the doctor might prescribe a maintenance treatment that requires the use of topical retinoids, calcineurin inhibitors, and vitamin D analogues.

Emollients and moisturizers
In order to manage and treat psoriasis properly, it is important to keep the skin hydrated. Products like moisturizers and emollients work on protecting the skin barrier and furthering its repair. They help clear the skin and relieve it of dryness. For maximum hydration, it is best to apply these products to wet skin. Emollients and moisturizers are recommended for daily usage. They can also be used multiple times each day, as per need. For patients with moderate to severe psoriasis, creams with heavier textures, oils, and ointments tend to work best since they provide better coverage and lasting hydration to the skin. However, some patients might not prefer them as these products tend to be messy. In that case, stick to using heavier products during the night and lighter emollients during the day.

Anti-itch creams
Itching is one of the primary concerns of psoriasis. It is also a common initial symptom of the condition that can be dealt with by using creams containing camphor, hydrocortisone, calamine, or menthol. Creams with a combination of these ingredients can also be used to tend to this itchiness. Doctors recommend products that work on hydrating the skin while simultaneously dealing with itching.

Vitamin D analogues
Calcitriol, a vitamin D analogue, is frequently used in combination with steroids to treat psoriasis. It binds the vitamin D receptors in the body and inhibits the growth of skin cells.

Retinoids
Derived from vitamin A, retinoids can be used in psoriasis treatment. Some common topical creams containing retinoids are used to decrease redness and swelling, lessen scales, and treat psoriasis on the nails. However, retinoids should be used carefully and under the guidance of professionals. Some people might need to avoid them as they can increase skin sensitivity and lead to sunburns. It is also better to be avoided by pregnant patients as retinoid usage can lead to birth defects.

Calcineurin inhibitors
Calcineurin inhibitors are products that can be used to substitute for corticosteroids. These products are preferred by some users as they do not thin the skin as opposed to continued corticosteroid use. Calcineurin inhibitors can be used in the form of ointments or creams that contain tacrolimus and pimecrolimus. Tacrolimus is used for people that need stronger compounds to help with their psoriasis.

Anthralin
Anthralin is a comparatively older option to deal with psoriasis. It is avoided by some users because it tends to temporarily stain the skin and leave permanent stains on clothing. It can be used for mild to moderate psoriasis when other options don’t work. It works by slowing the replication process of skin cells, reducing the production of skin plaques.

Doctors may recommend a variety of creams for psoriasis, natural remedies like aloe vera gels, and other products to soothe one’s symptoms. It is advisable to consult a professional immediately if any of these don’t suit the skin.