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Psoriasis

Associated Skin Care Specialists Our Services Psoriasis

Associated Skin Care Specialists

Board-Certified Dermatologists located in Eden Prairie, Fridley, Maple Grove, & Coon Rapids, MN

Nearly 7.5 million men and women deal with the uncomfortable and embarrassing symptoms of psoriasis, making it the most common skin disease in America. If you suffer from psoriasis symptoms like skin scales and patchy red skin, reaching out for help is crucial for relief. The highly experienced team of dermatologists at Associated Skin Care Specialists is ready to help at six convenient locations around the Twin Cities in Blaine, Fridley, Maple Grove, Coon Rapids, Minneapolis, and Eden Prairie, Minnesota. 

Psoriasis Q & A

What is psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a common skin condition that develops when you make skin cells too quickly. The skin cells pile up on your skin. There are many types of psoriasis, including:

 

  • Plaque: most common psoriasis, causes thick red skin and silver-white scales
  • Guttate: little red dots on your skin, often develops in children  
  • Inverse: large smooth red skin patches within skin folds like below the breasts
  • Pustular: small pus-filled bumps on hands or feet
  • Erythrodermic: red skin covering large areas, sheds in sheets

 

Psoriatic arthritis is sometimes categorized as psoriasis, but it’s also a form of arthritis. It develops in around 18-42% of psoriasis sufferers, causing serious joint damage.

What causes psoriasis?

The cause of psoriasis is still unknown, but current research points to immune system malfunction. Essentially, the cells that normally protect you from viruses and bacteria instead attack your healthy skin. This causes your body to make new skin cells at an accelerated rate, and soon those extra skin cells start accumulating.

 

The reason that psoriasis sufferers have immune system problems isn’t always known. Family history, serious viral or bacterial infections, excessive alcohol intake, smoking, and skin injury are some common psoriasis triggers.

What is the best treatment for psoriasis?

 

Psoriasis treatment at Associated Skin Care Specialists depends on the type of psoriasis and what kind of symptoms you have. The goal is to reduce or eliminate your current symptoms while taking preventive measures for the future. Treatments may include:

 

  • Narrow-band UVB: light therapy using the beneficial part of sunlight
  • Excimer laser: stronger UVB light treatment to clear focal areas of skin scales
  • Biologic treatment: immune system medications via injection or infusion designed to target the psoriasis pathways

 

Your Associated Skin Care Specialists dermatologist may also recommend other treatments based on your symptoms. Some patients get relief from topical prescriptions like corticosteroids, vitamin D, or retinoids.

 

Additionally, your dermatologist can help you better understand what triggers your psoriasis flare-ups so you can make necessary lifestyle changes. A few small lifestyle changes combined with your psoriasis treatment at Associated Skin Care Specialists can help you stay free of symptoms for a long time. Remission is possible with your dermatologist’s help.

 

Call Associated Skin Care Specialists to arrange your appointment for psoriasis help at the location closest to you today.

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