Topical treatments – medications applied to the skin – typically are your first line of defense when treating psoriasis. Topicals slow down or normalize excessive cell reproduction and reduce inflammation caused by psoriasis.
There are several effective topical treatments for psoriasis, many of which can be purchased over the counter (OTC). However, some topicals are only available by prescription from your health care provider.
The most frequent treatment option for psoriasis is topical steroids, which are derived from the natural corticosteroid hormones produced by the adrenal glands. Corticosteroids control inflammatory responses in the body, among other important functions, making them an ideal anti-inflammatory agent to reduce swelling and redness caused by plaques. A mild topical corticosteroid may be available over the counter, but others will require a prescription from your health care provider.
There are also some newer treatment approaches available that combine topical treatment options, such as a corticosteroid with a retinoid.
Steroids come in various strengths, ranging from very strong or “superpotent” to very weak or “least potent.”
Sometimes a topical steroid isn’t the best treatment option for you. In that case, your health care provider may prescribe a topical non-steroidal treatment. Some of the ingredients used in prescription non-steroidal topical treatments include anthralin, synthetic vitamin D3, and vitamin A. These can be used to control psoriasis plaques.
OTC topical treatments come in many different forms, including lotions, foams, tars, bath solutions, shampoos, and more. Two active ingredients, salicylic acid and coal tar, are approved by the FDA for the treatment of psoriasis and can be found in a variety of treatments. Other products may contain substances such as aloe vera, jojoba, zinc pyrithione, and capsaicin, which are used to moisturize, soothe, remove scale, or relieve itching.
Your health care provider can help determine which type of topical therapy is the best fit for you.
The National Psoriasis Foundation’s Seal of Recognition highlights OTC products and recognizes products that have been created or are intended to be non-irritating and safe for people with psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and/or individuals living with severely sensitive skin or joint mobility limitations.
Get the facts about topical treatments for psoriasis, including who can use them, how to use them, and associated risks from the Patient Navigation Center.
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