These treatments help remove scales and prevent skin cells from growing too fast.

This article will go over the different treatment options for chronic plaque psoriasis.

This photo contains content that some people may find graphic or disturbing.

Polygonal plaque psoriasis on a person’s arm and wrist area

Reproduced with permission from © DermNet New Zealand www.dermnetnz.org 2023.

Reproduced with permission from DermNet New Zealand www.dermnetnz.org 2023.

However, since it is anautoimmune disorder, chronic plaque psoriasis may need more treatment than just steroids.

In some cases, the bodys autoimmune response will need to be quieted to prevent more harm.

Doctor Discussion Guide Woman

Get our printable guide for your next doctor’s appointment to help you ask the right questions.

Topical Corticosteroids

Topical corticosteroids can be the onlytreatmentneeded for people with mild chronic plaque psoriasis.

The drugs can also be used with other treatments in people with moderate to severe cases.

Before prescribing a topical steroid, your dermatologist will consider the location and severity of your chronic psoriasisplaques.

Lexette is a foam that’s ideal forscalp psoriasis.

Ultravate is a cream product.

Biologics are usually prescribed for people with moderate to severe psoriasis who have not been helped by other treatments.

They can be given either by injection or through a vein (intravenously).

In rare cases, certain cancers and neurological disorders (e.g., seizures and multiple sclerosis) may develop.

Biologic drugs can affect your bodys immune response and increase your risk for infections.

verify that any cuts, sores, burns, or signs of infection are treated by your provider.

Get our printable guide for your next doctor’s appointment to help you ask the right questions.

Supportive Medications

Other prescription drugs can support the primary treatment of chronic plaque psoriasis.

Vtama is the first and only FDA-approved non-steroidal topical medication in its class.

The cream is applied once daily and works by activating aryl hydrocarbon receptors in the skin to reduce inflammation.

Studies have shown this treatment to be effective and safe for use on multiple body sitesincluding sensitive skin areas.

Common side effects include itching, folliculitis, skin rash, and headache.

Skin Care

With chronic plaque psoriasis, good skin care is essential.

You may need to use more than one treatment to effectively manage your psoriasis over the long-term.

Check with your dermatologist on what treatment is best for your particular condition.

Frequently Asked Questions

Chronic plaque psoriasis is typically treated by both a dermatologist and a rheumatologist.

Taking care of your skin is also an important part of self-care when you have psoriasis.

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