There are five types of psoriasis.

#1-Plaque psoriasis - Most common form of the disease

#2-Guttate psoriasis - Appears as small red spots on the skin

#3-Inverse psoriasis - Occurs in armpits, groin and skin folds

#4-Pustular psoriasis - White blisters surrounded by red skin

#5-Erythrodermic psoriasis - Intense redness over large areas

Plaque psoriasis appears as raised, red patches or lesions covered with a silvery white buildup of dead skin cells, called scale. Psoriasis can occur on any part of the body such as the scalp, the face, the hands and even the nails.

Treatment Overview

At this time there is no cure for Psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. There are many different types of treatment that can reduce, or nearly stop, the symptoms of psoriasis. No single treatment works for everyone and some people use a combination of treatments.

Here are five tips for treating the symptoms of psoriasis (see our disclaimer at the bottom of this article).

TIP#1---Caring for your Scalp

For my dry and tight scalp I use Alberto VO5 Oasis shampoo and conditioner. It takes care of the psoriasis on my scalp, leaving it well moisturized that I don't have to put mineral oil on my scalp overnight. It also minimizes psoriasis scalp flakes.

TIP#2---Dealing with Itching

Today, out of desperation, I tried Lanacane on my hands right after a Narrow Band Light treatment. A couple of hours passed. The rest of my guttate psoriasis drove me wild! My hands?? Not at all!! I then bathed in the Aveeno Oatmeal bath mix. and applied, to my wet body, Burts Bees Apricot Kernel Baby Oil. But, most of all, I was super impressed with the Lanacane. It worked for me. I am just newly diagnosed and had no clue this itching could be so severe. Gayle, WA

TIP#3---Herbs and Dietary Supplements

I have had guttate psoriasis for 34 years and it always fluctuates between being good and bad based on stress, weather, etc... I have gone through years of creams, light treatments and avoidance altogether until a friend told me about Omega 3-6-9 gel caps with flax, borage and fish oil. My skin has improved markedly and I no longer treat myself with UVB light treatments on a regular basis!

TIP#4---Homemade oatmeal bath

I grind about 3/4 of a cup of regular dry oatmeal in a blender, then pour it into a clean knee-high nylon stocking. Run bath water through the stocking. When you're done filling the tub, knot the stocking at the top and use the remains for a "loofah." This helps keep my skin soft. I follow with Aveeno moisturizing oil lotion.

TIP#5---Scale Removal Tips and Products

I saw how well my son's cradle cap treatment worked on his scalp, I decided to try it on my face and ears. It worked like a charm! It is Gentle Naturals cradle cap treatment by Oragel. It has a pleasant scent, and is moisturizing as well. I apply it about 1/2 hour before my shower and use a washcloth to gently massage the skin.

Source: National Psoriasis Foundation/USA

Although there is no cure for psoriasis, there are treatments that can reduce, or nearly stop, the symptoms of psoriasis. Work with your doctor, read articles about psoriasis, and join a support group. Soon --- You will be Living Well With Psoriasis.

Disclaimer: The information presented is only for discussion. Check with your doctor before beginning any new treatment. And always make sure your doctor is aware of any natural or herbal product (including vitamins and supplements) you are using, as some may interact with prescription medications. Results and personal experiences will vary from person to person.

Copyright (C) 2007 Wayne McDonald