Psoriasis
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Rigor Dermatology & Laser Center
Board Certified Dermatologists & Board Certified Internal Medicine Physicians located in Pasadena, CA & Diamond Bar, CA
If you have itchy, red, flaky patches from psoriasis, you have options for relief at Rigor Dermatology & Laser Center. Expert board-certified internist and dermatologist Ronald Rigor, MD, can thoroughly evaluate you and get to the root of your psoriasis flare-ups, in order to better help you find an effective solution. Book your psoriasis evaluation online, or call the Diamond Bar or Pasadena, California, office locations directly to schedule.
Psoriasis Q & A
What causes psoriasis?
Your skin cells go through continuous life cycles every single day. As skin cells start regenerating from the deepest layers, they work their way to the surface of your skin. Once their cycle is complete, they die and fall off.
With psoriasis, the life cycle of your skin cells speeds up dramatically. This causes cells to stack on top of each other. Since cells have nowhere to go, your skin becomes thicker, drier, and rougher.
While the exact cause of psoriasis isn’t well understood, medical experts find that the condition is related to an immune system issue, specifically with white blood cells known as T-cells. Psoriasis can be inherited, although your chances of developing this chronic condition are also high if you’re overweight, smoke cigarettes, or have a weakened immune system.
Are there symptoms of psoriasis?
Yes, although the signs and symptoms of psoriasis vary from person to person, and from flare-up to flare-up. Depending on which type of psoriasis you have, you may notice:
- Red patches
- Itching or burning
- Severely dry, cracked skin
- Skin that’s covered in silvery scales
Because psoriasis is an inflammatory condition, you may also experience inflammation and stiffness in your joints during a psoriasis flare-up. If psoriasis is starting to affect your daily life, lower your sleep quality, and cause lingering pain, it’s time to head to Rigor Dermatology & Laser Center for a thorough evaluation.
What is the treatment for psoriasis?
Dr. Rigor designs your psoriasis treatment plan to both treat your current flare-up and also to prevent future issues. Your psoriasis treatment plan may include:
- Topical corticosteroid creams
- Synthetic vitamin D solutions
- Salicylic acid ointments
- Specially designed moisturizers
- Ointments, like anthralin, to slow skin cell growth
Dr. Rigor may even suggest light therapy. This alternative treatment involves exposing your skin to short periods of natural or artificial ultraviolet light. The ultraviolet light can help your skin heal, in addition to minimizing issues with future psoriasis flare-ups.
Because light therapy can damage your skin in long increments, Dr. Rigor carefully designs your light therapy plan to ensure you're getting just the right amount of ultraviolet light.
Schedule your psoriasis evaluation at Rigor Dermatology & Laser Center before your flare-up worsens. Schedule your visit online, or call either location directly to book.
