More moderate cases may require the use of light therapy, either alone or in combination with topical treatments. However, for severe cases of psoriasis, systemic treatments are often necessary. These include oral or injected medications that help to reduce inflammation throughout the body.

Common systemic treatments for psoriasis include methotrexate, cyclosporine, and biologic agents. While these treatments are generally effective, they can also cause serious side effects, so it is important to discuss the risks and benefits with a doctor before starting any treatment regimen.

3. The Best Systemic Treatments

These treatments can help to reduce inflammation and psoriasis lesions:

Anthralin: This medication is used to treat psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. It is available in both cream and ointment forms and is only available by prescription.

Oral corticosteroids: These are anti-inflammatory medications that are taken by mouth. They are typically only used for short periods of time due to the risk of side effects.

Methotrexate: This is an immunosuppressant that is used to treat psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. It is taken in pill form or injected into the bloodstream. It is only available by prescription.

Cyclosporine: This immunosuppressant is used to treat psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. It is taken in pill form or injected into the bloodstream. It is only available by prescription.

Biologics: These are injectable medications that work by targeting specific parts of the immune system. They are used to treat psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. They are only available by prescription.

Phototherapy: This treatment involves exposing the skin to ultraviolet (UV) light. This can be done either with natural sunlight or artificial UV light sources. Phototherapy can help to reduce inflammation and psoriasis lesions.

Next Up… Alternative Psoriasis Treatments