What are topical treatments for psoriasis?
When applied directly to the skin, certain medications may improve psoriasis. Some people respond well to ointment or cream forms of corticosteroids, vitamin D3, retinoids, coal tar, or anthralin. Bath solutions and moisturizers may soothe the skin, but they often must be combined with stronger remedies and are usually not strong enough to improve the condition of the skin. • Corticosteroids: These medications reduce inflammation and slow the turnover of skin cells. They also suppress the chemicals in the immune system responsible for triggering psoriasis. Short-term treatment can improve, but not eliminate, psoriasis. Long-term use or overuse of corticosteroids can cause thinning of the skin, other side effects, and resistance to the medication. Calcipotriene: This drug is a synthetic (man-made) form of vitamin D3 that can be applied to the skin. Applying calcipotriene (for example, Dovonex) as directed controls the speed of skin cell turnover. Because calcipotriene can irritate the s
