Psoriasis Specialist

Dermatology Consultants of Asheville, PLLC Our Services Psoriasis

Dermatology Consultants of Asheville, PLLC

Dermatology & Board Certified Dermatologists located in Asheville, Woodfin, NC

An overactive immune system can develop into a condition called psoriasis, which causes an overproduction of skin cells and resulting skin irritation. At Dermatology Consultants of Asheville in Woodfin, North Carolina, Jose Mendez, DO, can help you manage your psoriasis using light therapy, topical products, and oral medications. To find out which type of psoriasis you have and the most effective treatments for it, call the dermatology practice or book an appointment online today.

Psoriasis Q&A

What is psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a group of chronic skin conditions that speeds up your body’s process of creating new skin cells. Normally, this process takes weeks. With psoriasis it takes just days, so you develop thick patches of scaly skin on certain areas of your skin’s surface.

The root cause of psoriasis is a problem with your immune system. When you have the condition, your immune system is overactive, which causes the high turnover rate of skin cells. 

Often, the same immune reaction causes inflammation in other areas of the body, like your joints. Psoriatic arthritis is a form of arthritis that stems from psoriasis.

Which type of psoriasis do I have?

There are several different types of psoriasis with varied symptoms. Your provider at Dermatology Consultants of Asheville examines your skin during a flare-up to make sure your diagnosis is accurate. Then, they can proceed with treating you.

Three of the most common types of psoriasis are:

Plaque psoriasis

Plaque psoriasis accounts for about 80% of cases. It causes you to develop inflamed patches of skin with silvery scales. These patches can appear anywhere on your body, but the most common areas are the scalp, knees, and elbows. 

Inverse psoriasis

Inverse psoriasis causes inflamed patches of skin that are smooth and don’t have scales like plaque psoriasis. It typically develops in areas where your skin folds or touches other areas of skin, like your armpits or genital area.

Guttate psoriasis

Guttate psoriasis causes small, round, and inflamed spots. It can affect any region of your body. 

What are my treatment options for psoriasis?

Dermatology Consultants of Asheville treats your symptoms and any complications that arise directly from your psoriasis. Your individualized treatment plan will likely include one or more of these procedures or prescriptions:

  • Topical corticosteroids
  • Vitamin D
  • Retinoids
  • Salicylic acid
  • Biologics
  • Ultraviolet B (UVB) light therapy

Your provider instructs you on how to follow your treatment plan correctly in order to get the best possible results. Treating your psoriasis won’t make it go away permanently, but it can ease flare-ups and reduce their frequency. 

It may also help to change your routine at home. Taking baths, using moisturizer, and getting moderate sun exposure can all help you manage your psoriasis more effectively.

Call Dermatology Consultants of Asheville or request an appointment online today to review your options for psoriasis treatment.

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