Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that causes red, itchy, scaly patches of skin that come and go over time. Though there is no cure for psoriasis, the experienced providers at Vivida Dermatology offer many treatment options to minimize flare-ups. The practice has locations in Las Vegas and Henderson, Nevada, and St. George, Utah. For expert psoriasis care from a practice that puts your needs first, call the office to schedule an appointment or reach out online. 

What is psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that causes your skin cells to grow at an accelerated rate, resulting in thick, itchy, scaly patches of skin. The exact cause of psoriasis is still under investigation, but doctors theorize that the skin condition develops from genetics and environmental factors, which trigger your immune system to over-produce skin cells.

Your scaly, itchy skin may come and go over time. It can affect any part of the body but typically develops on the knees, elbows, scalp, and abdominal area. 

What are psoriasis symptoms?

Psoriasis symptoms vary in type and severity. Common symptoms include:

• Red, scaly patches of skin
• Itching, burning, or tenderness
• Dry, cracked skin
• Thick, pitted, or ridged nails

Your skin condition may last a few weeks or a few months and then go away. Your psoriasis may even go into remission. 

Psoriasis may cause genital sores in men, and almost one-third of those with psoriasis develop psoriatic arthritis, which causes joint pain and swelling. 

What happens during a psoriasis evaluation?

Vivida Dermatology takes a personalized approach to care, and the specifics of your psoriasis evaluation depend on your unique skin needs. However, you can expect your dermatologist at Vivida Dermatology to ask detailed questions about your symptoms and medical and family history and evaluate your skin.

Though your dermatologist can diagnose psoriasis during your evaluation, they may conduct a skin biopsy to confirm your skin condition, as well as determine your psoriasis type, which includes:

• Plaque psoriasis
• Nail psoriasis
• Guttate psoriasis
• Inverse psoriasis
• Pustular psoriasis
• Erythrodermic psoriasis

Vivida Dermatology uses the information gathered during your evaluation to develop your treatment plan. 

How is psoriasis treated?

Vivida Dermatology develops individualized treatment plans for psoriasis based on the severity of your skin condition. For mild psoriasis, your dermatologist may recommend over-the-counter or prescription:

• Soaps
• Shampoos
• Creams
• Moisturizers
  

Oatmeal baths and sunlight may also improve your skin condition. Vivida Dermatology offers phototherapy -- a selective form of ultraviolet light -- as a treatment option for psoriasis. 

Phototherapy enhances the effectiveness of your prescription medication treatment.

For severe psoriasis, Vivida Dermatology prescribes biologics, medications that reduce the immune response, and your skin flare-ups.

To get relief from your chronic skin condition, call Vivida Dermatology today.