First and foremost, it's essential to understand that UV rays can be both helpful and harmful for people with psoriasis. On one hand, the UV light from the sun can help slow down skin cell growth, reducing psoriasis symptoms. On the other hand, too much sun exposure can lead to skin irritation and make psoriasis symptoms worse.
To minimize the harmful effects of sun exposure, it's recommended that individuals with psoriasis use a high-SPF sunscreen to protect their skin from damaging UV rays. It's also a good idea to avoid prolonged sun exposure, especially during peak hours when the sun is at its strongest. Instead, it's recommended that people with psoriasis seek out shade and cover up with clothing or a hat to protect their skin.
Sun exposure can have both positive and negative effects on individuals with psoriasis. While it is important to take steps to protect the skin from harmful UV rays, sun exposure can also provide relief from the symptoms of psoriasis. By using a high-SPF sunscreen, seeking out shade, and considering phototherapy, individuals with psoriasis can safely enjoy the sun while minimizing the risk of skin damage or irritation.
In addition to sun exposure, there are several other treatments available for psoriasis. Some of the most common treatments include:
- Topical therapies: This type of treatment involves applying ointments, creams, or lotions to the affected skin. Topical treatments include copper, corticosteroids, calcipotriol, and dithranol, among others. For psoriasis, try CLINITY Psoriasis Therapy Cream.
- Phototherapy: Phototherapy or light therapy is a treatment that uses UV light to reduce psoriasis symptoms. It can be performed in a clinic or at home with a special device.
- Systemic therapy: Systemic medications are taken orally or injected and work throughout the body to reduce skin cell production and relieve inflammation. Some examples include acitretin, cyclosporine, methotrexate, and sulfasalazine.
- Biologic therapy: Biologic therapy is a type of treatment that uses synthetic proteins or extracts from living organisms to treat psoriasis. These treatments include infliximab, etanercept, and adalimumab, among others.
It is important to note that the ideal treatment for psoriasis will vary depending on the individual and their specific form of psoriasis. Therefore, it is important to talk to a doctor to determine the best treatment for each individual case.
