August is Psoriasis awareness month

August is Psoriasis awareness month. At RSA we have helped many clients manage this incredibly difficult condition. Read on to find out more about this and what we can do to help you.

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Characterised by red, itchy, and scaly patches of skin, psoriasis can have a significant impact on a person's quality of life. While there is no cure for psoriasis, various treatment options, including phototherapy, can help manage its symptoms effectively. In this article, we'll delve into what psoriasis is, who it affects, the available treatment options, and the benefits of using phototherapy, particularly through devices like the Dermalux Tri-Wave MD.

Understanding Psoriasis

Psoriasis is an immune-mediated condition in which the immune system mistakenly triggers the rapid growth of skin cells. This abnormal growth cycle leads to the accumulation of cells on the surface of the skin, resulting in raised red patches covered with silvery scales. These patches can appear anywhere on the body, but they are commonly found on the elbows, knees, scalp, and lower back.

Who Does Psoriasis Affect?

Psoriasis does not discriminate and can affect individuals of any age, gender, or ethnicity. It is estimated that about 2-3% of the global population is affected by psoriasis. While the exact cause of psoriasis is not fully understood, it is believed to have a genetic component, as it often runs in families. Additionally, environmental factors, stress, and infections can trigger or worsen psoriasis symptoms.
Treatment Options for Psoriasis
The treatment of psoriasis aims to alleviate the symptoms, reduce inflammation, and slow down the rapid skin cell growth. Treatment options can vary based on the severity of the condition and the individual's response to therapy. Common treatment approaches include:

• Topical Treatments: These include creams, ointments, and lotions containing corticosteroids, vitamin D analogs, retinoids, or coal tar. They are applied directly to the affected areas and can help manage mild to moderate psoriasis.
• Systemic Medications: For more severe cases, doctors may prescribe oral or injectable medications that target the immune system, such as biologics, retinoids, or methotrexate. These medications help suppress the immune response responsible for the excessive skin cell growth.
• Phototherapy: Phototherapy, also known as light therapy, involves exposing the skin to ultraviolet (UV) light. UV light can slow down the growth of skin cells and reduce inflammation. This leads us to the role of phototherapy in managing psoriasis.

Benefits of Phototherapy for Psoriasis

Phototherapy is an established treatment option for psoriasis that offers several benefits:

• Reduced Inflammation: UVB and UVA light have anti-inflammatory effects on the skin, which can help alleviate the redness and swelling associated with psoriasis.
• Slowed Skin Cell Growth: UV light can slow down the rapid proliferation of skin cells, leading to a decrease in the accumulation of cells on the skin's surface.
• Improved Skin Appearance: Phototherapy can help reduce the thickness and scaling of psoriasis plaques, improving the overall appearance of the skin.

Dermalux Tri-Wave MD: A Cutting-Edge Phototherapy Solution

The Dermalux Tri-Wave MD is an innovative phototherapy device that utilizes three different wavelengths of light: Red, Blue, and Near-Infrared. Each of these wavelengths offers unique benefits for treating psoriasis:

• Red Light (630-640nm): Red light promotes healing and stimulates collagen production, aiding in the repair of damaged skin and reducing inflammation.
• Blue Light (415nm): Blue light has antibacterial properties and can help manage the overgrowth of bacteria on the skin, which is common in psoriasis.
• Near-Infrared Light (830nm): Near-infrared light penetrates deeper into the skin, promoting cellular regeneration and providing additional anti-inflammatory effects.

Using Dermalux Tri-Wave MD for Psoriasis

The Dermalux Tri-Wave MD is a non-invasive and painless treatment option for psoriasis. During a session, the patient is exposed to the specific wavelengths of light emitted by the device. This exposure helps to modulate the immune response, reduce inflammation, and slow down the rapid skin cell turnover associated with psoriasis. The treatment is typically carried out over a series of sessions, with improvements often visible after a few weeks.

Conclusion

Psoriasis is a complex and challenging skin condition that can significantly impact an individual's physical and emotional well-being. While there is no cure, various treatment options, including phototherapy with devices like the Dermalux Tri-Wave MD, offer hope for managing its symptoms effectively. If you or a loved one is living with psoriasis, consulting a dermatologist is crucial to determine the most suitable treatment approach based on the severity of the condition. With ongoing research and advancements in medical technology, the future holds promise for even more effective treatments for psoriasis management.