Different Types of Psoriasis and How to Treat Them

When we think of psoriasis, itchy, flaky patches of skin come to mind. However, like other skin conditions, psoriasis can take many forms. It’s important to know the type of psoriasis you’re dealing with. A diagnosis helps you (and your dermatologist) determine the best treatment plan for you and gets you on the path to healing. We’re breaking down six different types of psoriasis. We’ve also done a little bit of heavy lifting for you; here are some treatment options that might just give your skin the love it needs.

Plaque Psoriasis

First up, we have plaque psoriasis. Plaque psoriasis is the most common form of psoriasis and is probably what most people picture when they think of the condition. It’s characterized by raised, red patches on the skin, topped with a light-colored buildup of dead skin cells. These patches feel about as good as they look. They’re typically painful and itchy and are prone to cracking and bleeding. Most often, plaque psoriasis occurs on the lower back, knees, scalp, and elbows.

Considering the fact that plaque psoriasis has no cure, the most viable treatment option is something topical. Your dermatologist will more than likely recommend something you can put on your skin directly, such as a cream or a shampoo. These products contain ingredients that fight inflammation and help remove scales.

Guttate Psoriasis

As with other skin issues, psoriasis can flare up at any time and at any age. If your psoriasis began when you were a child, chances are you’re dealing with guttate psoriasis. Guttate psoriasis involves smaller lesions that look like polka dots, typically triggered by strep.

Depending on the severity of your psoriasis, good skin care practices can be enough to help you heal. Because guttate psoriasis is linked to bacterial infections, antibiotics often allow your skin to clear by fighting the condition at its source. If antibiotics aren’t your thing, phototherapy has also proven to be helpful.

Inverse Psoriasis

Inverse psoriasis gets its name from the fact that it appears shiny and smooth on the skin rather than taking the form of lesions. More often than not, it can be found in body folds, including behind the knee and in the groin area. Most people suffering from inverse psoriasis simultaneously show signs of other forms of psoriasis, too.

Because of its location on the body, inverse psoriasis is difficult to treat. Steroid creams may result in irritation, so those with inverse psoriasis rely on soothing coal tar and prescription medicine to help them heal.

Pustular Psoriasis

Next on our list of different types of psoriasis: pustular psoriasis. This involves small, white blisters of non-infectious pus (made up of white blood cells) on the surface of the skin. While pustular psoriasis can occur anywhere on the body, it’s most often found on the hands and feet. Much like with plaque psoriasis, dermatologists turn to topical treatments first. At the end of the day, the goal of treatment is to prevent fluid loss and infection while restoring chemical balance to the skin.

Erythrodermic Psoriasis

Erythrodermic psoriasis is arguably the most severe form of the condition. It’s incredibly rare and is characterized by fiery red rashes across the body that sometimes cause skin to fall off in sheets. Because it’s so severe, treatment is usually two-fold. Dermatologists will employ both topical solutions and systemic medications.

Psoriatic Arthritis

While there are only five official types of psoriasis, we wanted to be sure to include psoriatic arthritis in our lineup. As you may have guessed, psoriatic arthritis is a form of arthritis that specifically affects people with psoriasis. Generally, psoriatic arthritis affects major joints, especially those in the lower body, fingers, and toes. Early diagnosis is crucial to prevent damage to the joints, and treatment options range from anti-inflammatories to strong anti-rheumatics.

No matter which of the different types of psoriasis you may be dealing with, Sebamed has your back. Our mild, pH-balanced formula works hard to strengthen your skin barrier, providing protection against delicate skin conditions. We also offer a range of products for people of all ages and skin types. Skincare for all? Yes, please! Check out our complete product lineup here.

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