Psoriasis lotion is a product used to relieve the itching and flaking of the skin, which is often caused by this disease. Some of these products may be purchased over-the-counter, which means that a prescription is not necessary. In more severe cases, a doctor might prescribe a medicated cream for his patient to use. These lotions may contain steroids to stimulate the growth of healthy skin in those afflicted with this dermatological ailment.
The skin disease psoriasis is characterized by extra patches of skin, which are referred to as plaques. These are normally found on the face, knees, elbows, feet, and hands. Body lotion that is typically used by people to soothe common dry skin might not be effective in reducing the severity of these skin plaques. This is because a general type of lotion does not usually penetrate deep into the body's multiple skin layers.
Some brands of psoriasis lotion can contain natural ingredients that are believed to smooth and soften the skin. For instance, aloe vera is often used because it can help heal abrasions or breaks in the skin as well as to remove dead skin cells. Oatmeal-based lotions are sometimes administered to help soften plaques and alleviate itching.
An overactive immune system is often a contributing factor in the development of this condition. This can sometimes mean that a psoriasis lotion purchased without a prescription is ineffective in treating this disorder. People who do not respond to self-treatment may want to seek the advice of a physician. He might prescribe a cream that contains medication designed to slow the immune system of an affected individual. This can help prevent new patches of skin from growing before old skin cells can be shed.
How often these products are used often depends on whether or not the psoriasis lotion was prescribed by a physician and the severity of the disease. Those who use over-the-counter lotions may use them once or twice a day for a period of seven to 10 days. If the ointment was obtained by a doctor's prescription, it will normally be applied twice daily for a period of two to four weeks.
Although there is no cure for this disease, using psoriasis lotion often alleviates the suffering of an affected person. Maximum relief from a particular product is usually obtained when the directions for usage are followed precisely. Proper application might also reduce the number and severity of psoriasis outbreaks.
