The best treatments for Psoriasis and Eczema

Psoriasis and eczema are both chronic skin conditions that can cause significant discomfort and affect the appearance of the skin. While they have distinct causes and characteristics, both can benefit from a variety of aesthetic treatments aimed at managing symptoms, improving skin health, and reducing flare-ups. Here's a breakdown of some of the best aesthetic treatments that can help alleviate symptoms of psoriasis and eczema.

Aesthetic Treatments for Psoriasis

Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that speeds up skin cell turnover, leading to the buildup of thick, scaly patches, often on the elbows, knees, scalp, and lower back. Treatment for psoriasis focuses on reducing inflammation, managing flare-ups, and keeping the skin moisturized. Aesthetic treatments can complement medical treatments to improve skin appearance and comfort.

1. Phototherapy (UV Light Therapy)

How it works:Phototherapy, or UVB light therapy, involves exposing the skin to controlled doses of ultraviolet light, typically through a special light box or handheld device. This treatment helps slow down the rapid skin cell turnover associated with psoriasis.

Benefits:

• Reduces the thickness and scaling of psoriasis plaques.

• Helps calm inflammation and itching.

• Works well for widespread psoriasis or psoriasis on hard-to-reach areas like the scalp.

Considerations:Phototherapy typically requires multiple sessions and must be done under the supervision of a healthcare provider to avoid overexposure and side effects like skin aging or increased risk of skin cancer.

2. Laser Treatments (Excimer Laser)

How it works:The excimer laser delivers focused UVB light directly to the psoriasis patches, targeting the affected areas more precisely than traditional phototherapy.

Benefits:

• Treats localized psoriasis plaques with minimal damage to surrounding healthy skin.

• Ideal for small, stubborn patches on areas like the elbows, knees, or scalp.

• Quicker results than traditional phototherapy, with fewer sessions.

Considerations:This treatment can be costly and may require several sessions to achieve optimal results.

3. Topical Treatments with Cosmetic Ingredients

How it works:Topical treatments can help soothe and moisturize the skin, which is essential for managing psoriasis. Look for products that contain ingredients like:

• Salicylic acid: Exfoliates the skin and helps reduce the buildup of dead skin cells.

• Coal tar: Reduces scaling and inflammation (though it has a strong odor and can stain).

• Emollients and moisturizers: Keep the skin hydrated, which helps alleviate dryness and flakiness.

Benefits:

• Can be used daily to maintain skin hydration and reduce flare-ups.

• Can be combined with prescription treatments for better results.

Considerations:Some topical products may cause irritation or an allergic reaction, so it’s important to test them on a small area of skin first.

4. Microneedling (with Caution)

How it works:Microneedling involves creating tiny punctures in the skin using fine needles, which stimulates collagen production and can improve the texture of the skin. While it’s more commonly used for scars and fine lines, it can help with the appearance of psoriasis scars and thickened skin.

Benefits:

• Improves skin texture and reduces the appearance of scarring or hyperpigmentation from psoriasis flare-ups.

• Stimulates collagen, which can help with skin regeneration.

Considerations:Microneedling should be done with caution in individuals with active psoriasis, as it could potentially irritate the condition further. Always consult with a professional to assess whether this treatment is appropriate for you.

Aesthetic Treatments for Eczema

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a condition that causes dry, itchy, inflamed skin, often with patches of redness and scaling. The goal of eczema treatments is to reduce inflammation, relieve itching, and repair the skin barrier.

1. Hydration Treatments (Aquapheresis & Hydrating Facials)

How it works:Eczema sufferers often have a compromised skin barrier, leading to moisture loss. Hydration treatments, such as aquapheresis (a type of water-based therapy) or hydrating facials, focus on deeply hydrating the skin and helping restore the skin's natural barrier function.

Benefits:

• Deeply hydrates the skin, which can relieve dryness and prevent flare-ups.

• Reduces irritation, tightness, and itching.

• Improves the overall appearance of eczema-prone skin by restoring moisture balance.

Considerations:While these treatments can be very soothing, they should be combined with appropriate moisturizers and medications as part of an overall treatment plan.

2. Laser Treatments (Fractional Laser or Pulsed Dye Laser)

How it works:

• Fractional laser: Targets deeper layers of skin to promote collagen and elastin production, improving skin texture and reducing scarring or discoloration from eczema flare-ups.

• Pulsed dye laser: Reduces redness and inflammation by targeting blood vessels in the skin. It’s particularly effective for the redness associated with eczema.

Benefits:

• Reduces inflammation and redness, especially in chronic or severe eczema.

• Helps to minimize post-flare hyperpigmentation and skin thickening.

Considerations:Laser treatments for eczema should only be performed by experienced practitioners, as improper settings can worsen flare-ups. Make sure your eczema is under control before considering this type of treatment.

3. Topical Treatments with Cosmetic Ingredients

How it works:Like psoriasis, eczema treatment also benefits from topical emollients, but with a focus on repairing the skin barrier and calming inflammation.

Look for products containing:

• Ceramides: Lipid molecules that help restore the skin barrier.

• Niacinamide: Reduces inflammation and enhances the skin's barrier function.

• Hyaluronic acid: Attracts water to the skin and helps lock in moisture.

• Oatmeal and chamomile: Known for their calming, anti-inflammatory properties.

Benefits:

• Regular application can keep skin hydrated, preventing the dryness and cracking associated with eczema.

• Soothes irritation and itching.

Considerations:Eczema-prone skin can be sensitive to some ingredients, so it’s important to patch-test products first.

4. Gentle Chemical Peels (with AHA or Lactic Acid)

How it works:Mild chemical peels containing ingredients like alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or lactic acid can gently exfoliate the skin without causing irritation. This can be helpful for improving skin texture, removing dry patches, and reducing scarring from eczema flare-ups.

Benefits:

• Improves skin texture and tone by exfoliating dead skin cells.

• Helps reduce scarring from long-term eczema lesions.

Considerations:Chemical peels should be done very gently and sparingly on eczema-prone skin, as harsh exfoliation can trigger flare-ups. Always consult with a dermatologist or licensed esthetician first.

In Conclusion:

The best aesthetic treatments for psoriasis and eczema depend on the severity of the condition, your skin's sensitivity, and whether other treatments (like medication) are being used. It's important to work with both a dermatologist and a licensed aesthetician to create a personalized treatment plan that complements your medical regimen. While aesthetic treatments can help improve skin appearance and comfort, they should be used in conjunction with other therapeutic approaches for optimal results.