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This story is part of Survivor’s Guidea series about dealing with the effects of psoriasis through beauty and self-care.
Before we dive into the best creams for psoriasis, it’s important to note that these over-the-counter moisturizers — as soothing and intelligently formulated as they may be — are not a panacea for severe cases of the chronic, inflammatory skin condition. For the unfamiliar, psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that affects about two to three percent of the American population and is treated primarily with prescriptions from dermatologists, according to Shari Marchbein, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. “Depending on the severity of the condition, prescriptions range from topical to oral to injectable medications,” she says.
Robert Finney, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City, cannot stress enough the importance of seeing a doctor if you develop symptoms consistent with psoriasis — such as: B. scaly red patches of thickened skin – as this way you can determine which treatment option is best for you. “It’s a condition that often requires prescription medication,” he says Beckon. “In some cases, it can also affect the joints, which can lead to irreversible joint damage, so it’s always in your best interest to see an expert.”
Where exactly do over-the-counter (OTC) creams come into play? Well, like dr. Marchbein explains, “Over-the-counter products can help in mild cases of the disease or in conjunction with prescriptions.” In terms of formula, both experts recommend looking for products that contain ingredients like salicylic acid, lactic acid, niacinamide, and ceramides, as these can all help soften dandruff, minimize flaking, and relieve itching.
To find out which OTC psoriasis creams are best, we used the knowledge of the dermatologists mentioned above, as well as other experts on the subject, to come up with their top recommendations. Browse for her favorites—you can find many of these at your local drugstore.