Psoriasis is a skin condition that is often painful and uncomfortable. It is caused when the body’s immune system creates an inflammatory process which then creates too many skin cells that build up on the skin’s surface. This takes the form of itchy, scaly patches. Although there is no cure, the board certified dermatologists at The Dermatology Institute of Southern California can help you minimize the symptoms and appearance of psoriasis.
Our offices are conveniently located in Beverly Hills & Santa Monica, and our doctors are the top dermatologists in the area to treat your psoriasis and manage its effects. Led by Dr. Daniel Behroozan, who has been named a Castle Connelly doctor for four years running, Dermatology Institute of Southern California offers the most effective and advanced psoriasis treatments available today. Our caring skin doctors are committed to helping you find relief from this challenging and difficult condition.
Psoriasis FAQ
- What is psoriasis?
A chronic, inflammatory skin condition that causes itchy, scaly patches on the skin and can affect the joints. - What causes psoriasis?
It is an autoimmune condition that can be caused either by a hereditary gene and/or by unknown environmental triggers. - Where does psoriasis appear?
Usually on the elbows, knees, neck and/or scalp. - What does psoriasis look like?
White or red thick, scaled, patches on the skin. They can sometimes crack and bleed. - Is psoriasis contagious?
No. - Is there a cure for psoriasis?
No, but the condition can be managed so it causes less discomfort. - Can psoriasis be treated?
Yes. There are several medications that treat the symptoms of psoriasis. - Is my remission permanent?
Psoriasis can be managed, but permanent remission is rare. For this reason, it’s important to find a dermatologist you trust to help you manage this chronic condition.
Psoriasis Treatment in Beverly Hills & Santa Monica
Topical Treatments
Topical steroids (corticosteroids) are creams that reduce the inflammation and attempt to ease the discomfort on the skin’s surface. They are topical ointments that are effective when used on mild to moderate flares.
Retinoids are topical creams that contain synthetic forms of Vitamin A. They work by reducing the production of skin cells in the body.
Other topical treatments include Protopic, Elidel, vitamin D analogues (Calcipotriene), and coal tar.
Oral Treatments
Soriatane (acitretin) is an oral retinoid that is made up of a synthetic form of Vitamin A. It works the same way as the topical cream, which is to slow down skin cell production.
Otezla (Apremilast) is a pill that targets the cells directly in order to slow down their production. It can therefore reduce the cell build up and inflammation associated with psoriasis.
Other less common oral treatments include methotrexate and cyclosporine.
Injectable Treatments
Biologics are a new form of drug that work by targeting the immune system directly. These treatments are usually given by injection. They are used for moderate to severe cases of psoriasis.
Stelara, Cosentyx, and Talz are examples of biologics that selectively blocks certain proteins that are associated with psoriasis. Humira, Enbrel, Remicade, and Cimzia are also biologic treatments injected into the body to treat inflammatory conditions. They work by targeting and weakening certain immune cells. Methotrexate is also available as an injectable. These treatments are considered only when other treatments are ineffective. There are new biologic treatments every day for psoriasis, and the experts at the Dermatology Institute of Southern California can help you choose the most appropriate treatment option.
Get Relief from Psoriasis in Beverly Hills and Santa Monica
Contact The Dermatology Institute of Southern California today and our specialists will make a comprehensive plan to treat and manage your psoriasis. Our experts understand the ways in which psoriasis holds you back, and we want to help you treat and manage this condition so that you can be free to live a more comfortable and confident life!