Psoriasis
Medical Dermatology & Surgical and Cosmetic Dermatology in Fenton, Chesterfield and O'Fallon, MO
Psoriasis is a distressing condition that causes an overgrowth of skin cells. If you have flaky or scaly skin because of psoriasis, visit the Missouri Dermatology Laser and Vein Center office in Fenton, Chesterfield, or O’Fallon, Missouri. The experienced dermatology team offers a range of effective psoriasis treatments, including topical medications. They also provide laser therapy at their Fenton office. For relief from psoriasis, call your nearest Missouri Dermatology Laser and Vein Center office today or book an appointment online.
Psoriasis is a skin condition where you develop silver-white scales or raised pink plaques due to an over-production of skin cells. Your skin might feel sore, dry, or hot. Cracks in your skin can itch and bleed. Severe psoriasis can affect large areas of your skin and could be disabling.
There are many varieties of psoriasis, including:
Psoriatic arthritis causes chronic joint pain, weakness, and stiffness in addition to skin problems.
Psoriasis typically starts causing symptoms between 15 and 25, but you could get it at any age.
Psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder. Your immune system, which protects you from infections, sometimes has flaws that make it overreact or attack healthy cells. If you have psoriasis, your skin regenerates too quickly. The result is a skin cell buildup that creates scaly patches.
Why people get psoriasis, and other autoimmune disorders, isn’t clear. However, there’s often a family history of the disease. In many cases, psoriasis begins or worsens in response to a trigger such as:
If you know what your triggers are, it’s sensible to avoid them as much as possible.
Psoriasis treatments can’t cure your condition, but the Missouri Dermatology Laser and Vein Center team can help you manage your symptoms effectively. Treatments include:
The Missouri Dermatology Laser and Vein Center team uses the XTRAC® laser therapy system at their Fenton office. XTRAC excimer laser treatments reduce and reverse psoriatic cell growth. Treatments are typically painless, and you won’t need any anesthesia.
Your doctor gives you XTRAC treatments twice weekly, with each session taking 15-30 minutes. You need repeated sessions to treat psoriasis effectively. Individual results can vary, but patients often see improvements after 6-10 treatments and achieve clear skin in 10-20 treatments.
Treatment-resistant psoriasis might require oral medications or injections of steroids, methotrexate, or cyclosporine.
If you have psoriasis symptoms, call Missouri Dermatology Laser and Vein Center to arrange a consultation or book an appointment online today.