Psoriasis is a skin condition causing red and itchy scaly patches that often affect the knees, elbows, trunk, and scalp.

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Medical Treatment for Psoriasis

Topical treatments for psoriasis include salicylic acid, corticosteroids, retinoids, calcineurin inhibitors, Vitamin D analogs, coal tar, anthralin, and Goeckerman therapy. But for moderate to severe psoriasis, doctors may prescribe light therapy, oral or injected medications, and other alternative medicines.

• Topical medications
• Light therapy
• Oral or injected medications
• Alternative medicines

Topical medications

Topical therapy includes salicylic acid, corticosteroids, retinoids, calcineurin inhibitors, Vitamin D analogs, coal tar, anthralin, and Goeckerman therapy.

Light therapy

Sunlight is the safest treatment option. Doctors may also recommend UVB broadband, UVB narrowband, psoralen plus ultraviolet A (PUVA), and excimer laser therapy.

Oral or injected medications

A doctor may also prescribe steroids, retinoids, biologics, and other medications, though only for brief periods because of its harmful side effects.

Other alternative medicines

Some alternative therapies are generally safe such as aloe extract cream, fish oil supplements, barberries, and essential oils.

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What do the experts say?

Dr. Adam Friedman suggests that CBD is effective in treating psoriasis.

Medical studies suggest that CBD is a useful option for psoriasis treatment.