12 Psoriasis Medications You Can Purchase Over the Counter

Psoriasis is a common skin condition that causes red, itchy, scaly patches of skin. It can be a painful and embarrassing condition, but there are a number of effective treatments available.
Over-the-counter (OTC) psoriasis medications can be a good option for people with mild to moderate psoriasis. These medications can help to reduce inflammation, itching, and scaling.

Types of OTC Psoriasis Medications

There are several different types of OTC psoriasis medications available, including:

Moisturizers help to keep the skin hydrated and prevent it from becoming dry and cracked.
Emollients help to soften and smooth the skin.
Keratolytics help to remove the scales from the skin.
Anti-inflammatories help to reduce inflammation.
Antifungals help to treat fungal infections that can worsen psoriasis.

Which OTC Psoriasis Medication is Right for You?

The best OTC psoriasis medication for you will depend on the severity of your condition and your individual needs. If you have mild psoriasis, you may be able to get by with a simple moisturizer or emollient. If your psoriasis is more severe, you may need a stronger medication, such as a keratolytic or anti-inflammatory.

It is important to talk to your doctor before starting any new psoriasis medication, even if it is OTC. This is especially important if you have a severe or widespread case of psoriasis.

How to Use OTC Psoriasis Medications

OTC psoriasis medications are typically applied to the affected skin once or twice a day. Be sure to follow the directions on the package carefully.

Moisturizers and emollients can be applied as often as needed.
Keratolytics and anti-inflammatories should be used according to the directions on the package.
Antifungals should be used until the fungal infection is cleared up.

Side Effects of OTC Psoriasis Medications

OTC psoriasis medications are generally safe and well-tolerated. However, some people may experience side effects, such as:

Skin irritation
Dryness
Itching
Burning
Stinging

If you experience any side effects, stop using the medication and talk to your doctor.

Conclusion

OTC psoriasis medications can be a good option for people with mild to moderate psoriasis. These medications can help to reduce inflammation, itching, and scaling. It is important to talk to your doctor before starting any new psoriasis medication, even if it is OTC.

What is Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a common skin condition that affects more than 125 million people worldwide. It is a chronic, autoimmune disease that causes the skin to become red, scaly, and itchy. Psoriasis can occur anywhere on the body, but it most commonly affects the elbows, knees, scalp, and trunk.

There is no cure for psoriasis, but there are a number of effective treatments available. Treatment options include topical medications, systemic medications, and phototherapy.

Types of Psoriasis

There are several different types of psoriasis, including:

Plaque psoriasis is the most common type of psoriasis. It causes red, raised, scaly patches of skin.
Guttate psoriasis is a type of psoriasis that causes small, red, drop-shaped spots on the skin.
Inverse psoriasis is a type of psoriasis that causes red, inflamed patches of skin in the folds of the body, such as the armpits and groin.
Pustular psoriasis is a rare type of psoriasis that causes white, pus-filled blisters on the skin.
Erythrodermic psoriasis is a severe type of psoriasis that causes the skin to become red and inflamed over large areas of the body.

Symptoms of Psoriasis

The symptoms of psoriasis can vary depending on the type of psoriasis you have. However, some common symptoms include:

Redness
Scaly skin
Itching
Burning
Stinging
Cracking
Bleeding

Psoriasis can also cause pain and discomfort. In some cases, it can also lead to other health problems, such as arthritis and heart disease.

What Causes Psoriasis?

The exact cause of psoriasis is unknown, but it is thought to be an autoimmune disease. This means that the body's immune system attacks its own healthy cells.

Certain factors can trigger psoriasis, including:

Stress
Infection
Injury
Certain medications
Cold weather
Dry skin

How is Psoriasis Diagnosed?

Psoriasis is typically diagnosed based on the appearance of the skin. Your doctor may also perform a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis.

How is Psoriasis Treated?

There is no cure for psoriasis, but there are a number of effective treatments available. Treatment options include:

Topical medications are applied directly to the affected skin. These medications can help to reduce inflammation, itching, and scaling.
Systemic medications are taken by mouth or injection. These medications can help to suppress the immune system and reduce the severity of psoriasis.
Phototherapy uses ultraviolet light to treat psoriasis. This treatment can help to slow the growth of skin cells and reduce inflammation.

How Can I Manage My Psoriasis?

In addition to medical treatment, there are a number of things you can do to manage your psoriasis, including:

Moisturize your skin regularly. This will help to keep your skin hydrated and prevent it from becoming dry and cracked.
Avoid scratching. Scratching can irritate your skin and make psoriasis worse.
Take cool baths or showers. This will help to soothe your skin and reduce itching.
Wear loose, comfortable clothing. This will help to avoid irritation.
Manage stress. Stress can trigger psoriasis flare-ups.
Get regular exercise. Exercise can help to improve your overall health and well-being, which can help to reduce psoriasis symptoms.
Eat a healthy diet. Eating a healthy diet can help to improve your overall health and well-being, which can help to reduce psoriasis symptoms.

When Should I See a Doctor?

You should see a doctor if you have any of the following symptoms:

Your psoriasis is severe or widespread.
Your psoriasis is not responding to OTC treatment.
You have pain or discomfort from your psoriasis.
You are concerned about your psoriasis.

Conclusion

Psoriasis is a common skin condition that can be difficult to manage. However, there are a number of effective treatments available. By working with your doctor, you can find the best treatment plan for you and get your psoriasis under control.

Additional Information

For more information on psoriasis, please visit the following websites:

• National Psoriasis Foundation: https://www.psoriasis.org/
• American Academy of Dermatology: https://www.aad.org/