Doctor’s Note: Your Guide to the Best Psoriasis Products
Psoriasis Treatment Overview
There isn’t a cure for psoriasis, but treatments can help you manage symptoms and reduce flare-ups. The main goal of treating psoriasis is to keep it under control by following two important steps: removing flakes and reducing inflammation:
Step 1: Remove Flakes
One of the most visible parts of psoriasis is the thick, scaly flakes on the skin. Removing these flakes can make your skin feel better and help other treatments work more effectively. To remove flakes, try:
Salicylic Acid: Salicylic acid helps exfoliate the skin, reducing scales and flakiness. It’s often used in creams and lotions to soften and lift away psoriasis scales.
Coconut Oil and Mineral Oil: Oils help to soften scales and make them easier to remove, while also providing moisture.
Step 2: Reduce Inflammation
Reducing inflammation is important to relieve the itchiness, redness, and swelling that often come with psoriasis. To reduce inflammation, try:
Topical Steroids: Topical steroids are commonly used to reduce inflammation in psoriasis. However, they should be used with caution.
Moisturizers: Thick moisturizers help lock in moisture, which is essential for managing psoriasis.
Prescriptions: Prescriptions include stronger topical steroids, vitamin D, and injectable medications.
Steps 1 & 2: Best of Both!
Some ingredients in skincare products can help with both flake removal and inflammation reduction,. These ingredients include:
Coal Tar: Coal tar is a classic treatment for psoriasis and works by slowing down the growth of skin cells. It can be smelly and messy, though.
Lactic Acid: Lactic acid is a very gentle exfoliant that also provides moisture.
Urea: Urea is a very gentle exfoliant that also provides moisture.
Now that we get the overall picture, let’s get into specific products!
Step 1: Remove Flakes
While salicylic acid can help remove flakes, excessive use can lead to irritation. If it starts to burn/sting when you apply, use a product from Step 2 instead!
2% Salicylic Acid
Also hydrates (ceramides, 5% Urea, Lactic Acid)
3% Salicylic Acid
Also hydrates (ceramides, glycerin, aloe, extracts, Vitamin E)
Virgin, cold-pressed, unrefined coconut oil is best
Moisturizing
Antibacterial and antifungal
Note: Great to leave on overnight to loosen scale!
3% Salicylic Acid
Also hydrates (glycerin, extracts)
Step 2: Reduce Inflammation
Moisturizer locks in water, prevents dryness, and forms a protective barrier against potential irritants. It promotes healing by maintaining a moist environment.
100% pure petrolatum
Thick, greasy texture
General-purpose moisturizer, protective barrier
Note: For the most sensitive of sensitive skin.
100% pure petrolatum + mineral oil + lanolin (waxy) + panthenol (reduces inflammation) + glycerin (hydration)
Thick, emollient
Heals and protects
Note: Lanolin has potential for irritation.
1% hydrocortisone (topical steroid)
Reduces inflammation, itch, redness, and swelling
Cream, ointment, lotion. Ointment best for sensitive skin.
Avoid overuse, can thin skin over time.
100% pure petrolatum + ceramides + hyaluronic acid
Lighter, less greasy
Repairs skin barrier, retains moisture
Lighter than Vaseline. Sometimes HA can be irritating to sensitive skin.
Steps 1 & 2 Combo Products
Coal tar, lactic acid, and urea can all reduce scale and reduce inflammation.
5% lactic acid
Mild exfoliation and hydration (lactic acid, glycerin, ceramides)
Smooths and maintains healthy, soft skin
12% lactic acid
Great for gentle exfoliation and moisturizing
AmLactin Intensive Healing 15%
15% lactic acid
Gentle exfoliation and deep hydration (lactic acid, glycerin, mineral oil)
Improves texture and moisture retention for rough, dry skin
15% lactic acid
Powerful exfoliation and deep hydration (lactic acid, glycerin)
Ideal for very rough, dry skin; boosts cell turnover for smoother texture
10% urea
Urea is a very small molecule that can dive deep to provide hydration
8% urea
Very hydrating (urea, hyaluronic acid, shea, oils)
Supports skin health (probiotics)
40% urea
Deep exfoliation and intense hydration (urea, glycerin, tea tree oil)
Softens and smooths rough, dry skin
?% urea
Provides barrier support (ceramides, cholesterol)
2% coal tar
Soothes and moisturizes
2% coal tar
Non-greasy
Psoriasin Deep Moisturizing Ointment
3% coal tar
Hydrates
Coal tar extract
Ideal for daily cleansing of psoriasis
FAQ
What are the best over-the-counter products for psoriasis?
The best OTC products for psoriasis include moisturizers with ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, or urea for hydration. Salicylic acid and coal tar shampoos are effective for scalp psoriasis, while corticosteroid creams can help reduce inflammation.
Are natural products effective for psoriasis?
Yes, some natural products like aloe vera, coconut oil, and tea tree oil can soothe psoriasis symptoms. Dead Sea salts and oatmeal baths are also known to reduce irritation and scaling. Always patch test before use.
What are the best shampoos for scalp psoriasis?
Shampoos containing salicylic acid, coal tar, or ketoconazole are effective for scalp psoriasis. Brands like Neutrogena T/Gel, MG217, or Nizoral are commonly recommended.
Are there any prescription-strength psoriasis products?
Yes, prescription products for psoriasis include topical treatments like calcipotriol (vitamin D analog), corticosteroids, and tazarotene (a retinoid). Systemic treatments like biologics or oral medications may also be prescribed for severe cases.
What moisturizers are good for psoriasis?
Thick, fragrance-free moisturizers like CeraVe, Eucerin, or Aquaphor are excellent for psoriasis. Products with ingredients like colloidal oatmeal or shea butter can help lock in moisture and soothe irritated skin.
What products should I avoid if I have psoriasis?
Avoid products with fragrances, alcohol, or harsh exfoliants, as they can irritate psoriasis-prone skin. Opt for gentle, non-comedogenic, and dermatologist-tested products.
Can sunscreen help psoriasis?
Yes, sunscreen is essential for protecting psoriasis-affected skin from UV damage. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and choose a formula designed for sensitive skin.
Are there specialized bath products for psoriasis?
Yes, bath products with colloidal oatmeal, Dead Sea salts, or Epsom salts are beneficial for psoriasis. They help reduce itching, scaling, and inflammation while soothing the skin.
Can psoriasis products prevent flare-ups?
Consistent use of moisturizers, medicated creams, and sun protection can help prevent psoriasis flare-ups. Identifying and avoiding triggers like stress or certain foods can also be effective.