- posted: Nov. 17, 2024
- Skin Care, Skin Condition, Dermatology, Skin Treatments
Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition characterized by skin cells that grow too rapidly, creating thick, scaly patches that are red, itchy, and often painful. As Dr. Jennifer DeBlieck of DeBlieck Dermatology notes—serving the communities in and around Boise, ID—psoriasis patches (a.k.a. plaque) typically appear on the elbows, knees, scalp, and lower back but have the potential to impact the body anywhere.
Psoriasis is not contagious; it is secondary to inflammation within the skin - often triggered by stress, infections and certain medications - that erroneously speeds up skin turnover.
Exploring New Psoriasis Treatments
New psoriatic treatments increasingly target immune pathways related to the condition. These emerging and innovative therapies are designed to provide better symptom control, more permanent effects, and reduced side effects.
The new treatments on the medical horizon include the following:
Biologics or Systemic Options—Biologics, proteins designed to block specific molecules/cells in the body that cause inflammation, are a unique type of medicine made from living organisms (instead of chemicals). They specifically target parts of the immune system and are designed to work faster and offer longer remission times. Emerging treatments include Bimekizumab.
Topical Treatment Therapies – Advances in non-steroidal topical options, such as aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) modulators, can penetrate the skin deeper without irritation and lessen inflamed tissue. Emerging treatments include Roflumilast, designed to reduce inflammation and slow skin cell growth.
Phototherapy and Laser Improvements – Innovative laser and LED options are being investigated to target psoriasis without damaging nearby skin. Pioneering phototherapy techniques are designed to reduce psoriatic treatment's side effects and aim for more targeted light exposure.
Traditional Psoriasis Treatments
In addition to these new advancements, many patients find effective relief through more established treatments. Traditional methods include:
Topical Corticosteroids – Corticosteroids are often the first line of defense for mild to moderate psoriasis. These anti-inflammatory creams or ointments are applied directly to the skin to reduce redness, swelling, and itching.
Moisturizers and Emollients – Regularly moisturizing helps reduce dryness, flaking, and itching. Special emollients designed for psoriasis can soothe irritated skin and provide relief.
Systemic Medications – For more severe cases, traditional oral medications like methotrexate or cyclosporine may be prescribed. These drugs work by suppressing the immune response and reducing inflammation but require careful monitoring due to potential side effects.
Contact a Leading Boise, ID Dermatologist Near You Today
With both traditional and emerging treatment options, the future for those looking to manage psoriasis and its symptoms looks hopeful and promising. To learn more about current and newly investigated psoriatic treatment options, contact Dr. DeBlieck or a staff member of DeBlieck Dermatology at 208-939-5030 or online.
- posted: Nov. 17, 2024
- Skin Care, Skin Condition, Dermatology, Skin Treatments
Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition characterized by skin cells that grow too rapidly, creating thick, scaly patches that are red, itchy, and often painful. As Dr. Jennifer DeBlieck of DeBlieck Dermatology notes—serving the communities in and around Boise, ID—psoriasis patches (a.k.a. plaque) typically appear on the elbows, knees, scalp, and lower back but have the potential to impact the body anywhere.
Psoriasis is not contagious; it is secondary to inflammation within the skin - often triggered by stress, infections and certain medications - that erroneously speeds up skin turnover.
Exploring New Psoriasis Treatments
New psoriatic treatments increasingly target immune pathways related to the condition. These emerging and innovative therapies are designed to provide better symptom control, more permanent effects, and reduced side effects.
The new treatments on the medical horizon include the following:
Biologics or Systemic Options—Biologics, proteins designed to block specific molecules/cells in the body that cause inflammation, are a unique type of medicine made from living organisms (instead of chemicals). They specifically target parts of the immune system and are designed to work faster and offer longer remission times. Emerging treatments include Bimekizumab.
Topical Treatment Therapies – Advances in non-steroidal topical options, such as aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) modulators, can penetrate the skin deeper without irritation and lessen inflamed tissue. Emerging treatments include Roflumilast, designed to reduce inflammation and slow skin cell growth.
Phototherapy and Laser Improvements – Innovative laser and LED options are being investigated to target psoriasis without damaging nearby skin. Pioneering phototherapy techniques are designed to reduce psoriatic treatment's side effects and aim for more targeted light exposure.
Traditional Psoriasis Treatments
In addition to these new advancements, many patients find effective relief through more established treatments. Traditional methods include:
Topical Corticosteroids – Corticosteroids are often the first line of defense for mild to moderate psoriasis. These anti-inflammatory creams or ointments are applied directly to the skin to reduce redness, swelling, and itching.
Moisturizers and Emollients – Regularly moisturizing helps reduce dryness, flaking, and itching. Special emollients designed for psoriasis can soothe irritated skin and provide relief.
Systemic Medications – For more severe cases, traditional oral medications like methotrexate or cyclosporine may be prescribed. These drugs work by suppressing the immune response and reducing inflammation but require careful monitoring due to potential side effects.
Contact a Leading Boise, ID Dermatologist Near You Today
With both traditional and emerging treatment options, the future for those looking to manage psoriasis and its symptoms looks hopeful and promising. To learn more about current and newly investigated psoriatic treatment options, contact Dr. DeBlieck or a staff member of DeBlieck Dermatology at 208-939-5030 or online.