People who have psoriasis often wonder, “Is psoriasis curable or not?” Sadly, there is no permanent cure for psoriasis. But treatment can help you feel better.
You may need oral, systemic, or topical treatments, depending on your psoriasis. Even if you have severe psoriasis, there are good methods in managing flare-ups. By doing one or more of these ways, you may be able to get rid of your symptoms.
Is Psoriasis Curable with Dietary Supplements?
Dietary supplements may help ease psoriasis symptoms from the inside. According to the National Psoriasis Foundation, Aloe Vera, evening primrose oil, fish oil, milk thistle, Oregon grape, and vitamin D help ease mild symptoms of psoriasis. Check with your dermatologist before taking supplements to make sure they do not interfere with other health conditions you may have or with other medications you may be taking.
Is Psoriasis Curable with Corticosteroids?
Corticosteroid drugs treat mild to moderate psoriasis. They are available as creams, foams, gels, lotions, ointments, shampoos, and sprays. Hydrocortisone works best in sensitive areas, such as your face or skin folds, and for treating widespread patches.
Apply topical corticosteroids once a day during flares, and on alternate days or weekends to prevent them from coming back. Your dermatologist may prescribe a stronger corticosteroid cream or ointment for less sensitive, smaller, or tough to treat areas. Long-term use of strong corticosteroids can thin the skin.
Eventually, topical corticosteroids may stop working.
Phototherapy
Extensive psoriasis may be treated with phototherapy. With this method, artificial UVB rays penetrate the skin to slow the growth of affected skin cells. The duration of exposure, light intensity, and number of treatments vary for each person.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Research has shown that omega-3 fatty acids can reduce inflammation and improve autoimmune diseases. A 2014 meta-analysis found that fish oils might help people with psoriasis, which is both inflammatory and autoimmune. However, the extent of this benefit may depend on the type of fish oil, the dosage, and the type of psoriasis.
Omega-3 fatty acids appear to be the most effective component of fish oil. It is possible that some people may experience side effects. Potential side effects include diarrhea, fishy taste in the mouth, indigestion, or nausea.
People who take blood thinners, such as warfarin, have a higher risk of bleeding if they also take omega-3 supplements. You should follow dosage instructions carefully to avoid possible stomach discomfort. As fish oil supplements can interact with some medications, you should talk to a doctor before taking them.
Ideally, it is better to consume fish that contain omega-3 rather than taking supplements. Omega-3 supplements are widely available to purchase online and in stores.
Consult your dermatologist before you stop your psoriasis treatment. Because psoriasis is a lifelong disease, it is understandable if you may want to stop treatment at some point. Always discuss first your treatment options with your doctor.
Some treatments can be stopped instantly. Others need to be discontinued gradually to prevent psoriasis from rebounding. When psoriasis rebounds, it may become a more serious type of psoriasis.
The best way to prevent a rebound is to talk with your dermatologist. They can tell you whether you can stop the treatment right away or not. Sometimes, the best approach is to slowly switch to another treatment.