How to Treat Psoriasis

Psoriasis, medically known as psoriasis vulgaris, is a chronic, recurrent skin disease primarily characterized by red patches covered with silvery-white scales. The goals of psoriasis treatment are to control symptoms, reduce recurrence, and improve patients' quality of life.

1. Medication therapy: Topical medications such as tretinoin cream and tacrolimus ointment can act directly on the skin surface to control symptoms. Oral medications such as acitretin capsules and methotrexate tablets can control the condition systemically.

2. Phototherapy: Using ultraviolet light of specific wavelengths to irradiate the affected areas can inhibit excessive proliferation of skin cells and is suitable for cases with large affected areas or poor response to localized treatments.

3. Systemic treatment: For severe or widespread psoriasis, oral medications or injectable biologic agents may be required, such as methotrexate, cyclosporine, and biologics (e.g., TNF-α inhibitors), to regulate the immune system and control the disease.

4. Lifestyle modifications: Patients should maintain healthy dietary habits, consuming more foods rich in vitamins and minerals, such as fresh vegetables and fruits, while avoiding spicy and irritating foods. In addition, appropriate exercise, rest, and relaxation activities can help reduce stress and promote disease recovery.