Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects millions of people in the U.S., causing red, itchy, and scaly patches on the skin. Despite its prevalence, psoriasis can still be a frustrating and embarrassing condition that often leads to discomfort and decreased quality of life.
At Westover Hills Dermatology in San Antonio, TX, we specialize in psoriasis treatment for managing this common condition. Led by Dr. Mobolaji Opeola, a board-certified dermatologist, our team provides advanced, personalized solutions designed to help you achieve lasting relief and healthier skin.
What Is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is an immune-mediated skin condition characterized by an accelerated skin cell life cycle. Under normal circumstances, skin cells regenerate over a period of weeks, but with psoriasis, this process is sped up to just days. This leads to the buildup of thick, scaly plaques on the skin’s surface. These plaques can vary in size and severity, ranging from small, localized patches to widespread coverage.
While the exact cause of psoriasis remains unknown, genetics and environmental triggers such as stress, infections, or certain medications often play a role. It’s important to note that psoriasis is not contagious and cannot be spread through physical contact.
Common Symptoms of Psoriasis:
- Red, inflamed patches of skin covered with silvery scales
- Dry, cracked skin that may bleed
- Itching, burning, or soreness in affected areas
- Thickened, ridged, or pitted nails
- Joint pain (in cases of psoriatic arthritis)
Though psoriasis cannot be cured, treatments at Westover Hills Dermatology focus on managing flare-ups, reducing symptoms, and improving overall skin health.
Benefits of Psoriasis Treatment
Effective psoriasis treatment at Westover Hills Dermatology offers numerous advantages, helping you reclaim comfort and confidence in your skin. By managing symptoms and improving overall skin health, our treatments can enhance both your physical comfort and emotional well-being.
Relief From Itching and Discomfort
Chronic itching and burning sensations are hallmark symptoms of psoriasis that can significantly disrupt daily life. Our treatments are designed to alleviate these issues, providing immediate and lasting relief that improves overall comfort and reduces the urge to scratch, which can prevent further skin damage.
Reduction in Redness and Flaking
Psoriasis treatment significantly diminishes the redness and scaling of plaques, resulting in a smoother and more even complexion. This benefit is especially valuable for those with visible psoriasis on the face, scalp, or hands, helping to restore self-confidence and improve social comfort.
Prevention of Skin Thickening
Without proper care, psoriasis can lead to thick, hardened skin that becomes increasingly difficult to treat over time. Continuous treatment helps prevent this thickening, keeping the skin softer, more flexible, and easier to manage, reducing long-term complications.
Reduced Scalp Psoriasis Symptoms
Specialized therapies target scalp psoriasis, addressing symptoms like itching, flaking, and scaling. Treatment not only provides relief from discomfort but also improves the overall health of the scalp, which can positively impact hair growth and reduce dandruff-like symptoms.
Enhanced Effectiveness of Skincare Products
Healthier, treated skin is more receptive to moisturizers and medicated creams, allowing them to penetrate more deeply and work more effectively. This improves the efficacy of your skincare routine and helps maintain long-term symptom control.
Personalized Treatment Approaches
At Westover Hills Dermatology, we create tailored treatment plans that meet your individual needs, ensuring maximum effectiveness with minimal side effects. This personalized care allows for adjustments based on your skin’s response, optimizing results and patient satisfaction.
Lower Risk of Skin Infections
Psoriasis can compromise the skin barrier, making infections more likely, especially in areas affected by frequent scratching or cracking. Effective management reduces this risk, promoting overall skin integrity and safeguarding against additional health complications.
Improved Skin Hydration
Our therapies not only address scaling and dryness but also enhance your skin’s ability to retain moisture. This results in skin that feels softer, appears more supple, and is less prone to painful cracking and irritation.
Slowing Down Skin Cell Turnover
Psoriasis speeds up the production of skin cells, leading to the buildup of thick plaques that can be uncomfortable and unsightly. Treatments help regulate this process, preventing excessive cell accumulation and allowing healthier, smoother skin to emerge.
With comprehensive psoriasis treatment at Westover Hills Dermatology, you can experience both immediate symptom relief and long-term improvements in your skin’s health and appearance.
Types of Psoriasis Treatments Available
At Westover Hills Dermatology, we offer a comprehensive range of psoriasis treatments tailored to each patient’s unique condition and lifestyle. Our goal is to provide effective solutions that relieve symptoms, improve skin health, and enhance overall quality of life.
Topical Medications
Topical treatments are often the first line of defense against mild to moderate psoriasis.
- Corticosteroids: These anti-inflammatory creams or ointments help reduce redness, swelling, and itching, providing quick symptom relief for affected areas.
- Vitamin D Analogs: These medications slow down excessive skin cell growth, reducing plaque buildup and improving overall skin texture.
- Moisturizers: Hydrating creams and ointments help alleviate dryness and scaling, making the skin more comfortable and less prone to cracking.
Phototherapy (Light Therapy)
Phototherapy uses controlled exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light to slow the rapid growth of skin cells associated with psoriasis.
- UVB Therapy: This treatment targets affected skin areas with UVB light, reducing inflammation and scaling while promoting smoother skin.
- Narrowband UVB: A more focused form of light therapy that delivers concentrated wavelengths, offering improved effectiveness with fewer side effects compared to traditional UVB treatments.
Systemic Medications
For moderate to severe psoriasis that doesn’t respond to topical treatments or phototherapy, systemic medications may be prescribed.
- Oral Medications: These drugs work throughout the body to address widespread psoriasis symptoms and help prevent flare-ups.
- Biologics: Targeting specific parts of the immune system, biologic medications reduce inflammation at the source, providing long-term symptom relief for chronic or severe cases.
Injections
Injections offer targeted treatment options for both localized and widespread psoriasis.
- Biologic Injections: Administered regularly, these treatments help control the overactive immune response that triggers psoriasis, leading to sustained symptom reduction.
- Steroid Injections: These are used for quick relief during localized flare-ups, reducing inflammation and discomfort in targeted areas.
Lifestyle and Skincare Recommendations
In addition to medical treatments, adopting healthy lifestyle habits can significantly enhance the effectiveness of psoriasis management.
- Stress Management Techniques: Reducing stress through mindfulness, yoga, or therapy can help prevent flare-ups, as stress is a known psoriasis trigger.
- Dietary Advice: Incorporating anti-inflammatory foods and avoiding common triggers like processed foods or alcohol can improve overall skin health.
- Customized Skincare Routines: Gentle, fragrance-free skincare products can support treatment plans, helping to maintain hydration and reduce irritation.
At Westover Hills Dermatology, we believe that comprehensive care involves both effective medical treatments and lifestyle adjustments, ensuring long-term relief and improved quality of life for those living with psoriasis.
What to Expect During Your Psoriasis Treatment
Embarking on psoriasis treatment at Westover Hills Dermatology involves a comprehensive, patient-centered approach designed to ensure both comfort and optimal results. From the initial consultation to post-treatment care, our team guides you through every step of the process with personalized attention.
Personalized Consultation
Your journey begins with an in-depth consultation with Dr. Opeola, where we:
- Assess your skin and identify the type and severity of psoriasis
- Review your medical history and discuss potential triggers
- Develop a customized treatment plan tailored to your goals
Pre-Treatment Preparation
To prepare for certain treatments:
- Avoid sun exposure and tanning beds before phototherapy sessions
- Discontinue use of certain medications or topical products if advised
- Arrive with clean, product-free skin
During Treatment
The specifics vary depending on the chosen treatment, but you can generally expect:
- Topical medications applied in-office or prescribed for home use
- Phototherapy sessions lasting 15-30 minutes
- Injections or oral medications administered in a comfortable setting
Post-Treatment Care
After treatment:
- Mild redness or irritation may occur but typically subsides quickly
- Moisturize regularly to keep the skin hydrated
- Follow any additional care instructions to optimize results
With a tailored treatment plan and dedicated support, you can manage your psoriasis effectively and enjoy healthier, more comfortable skin. Our team remains committed to your long-term success and overall well-being.
Results You Can Expect
Most patients begin to notice improvement within a few weeks of starting treatment, with continued progress over time. Benefits may include:
- Reduced itching and redness: Treatment helps calm inflammation, providing significant relief from discomfort and visible irritation.
- Decreased plaque thickness and scaling: Psoriasis plaques become thinner and less scaly, improving both skin appearance and comfort.
- Improved overall skin texture and hydration: Regular treatment enhances skin smoothness and moisture retention, reducing dryness and rough patches.
While individual results may vary, consistent treatment and follow-up appointments help ensure long-term relief and healthier, more manageable skin.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can Psoriasis Be Completely Cured?
No, psoriasis cannot be cured, but it is manageable. With the right treatment plan, you can significantly reduce symptoms and improve quality of life.
Will Psoriasis Treatment Work for Me?
Most patients experience symptom improvement. Effectiveness depends on psoriasis severity, treatment choice, and adherence to your care plan.
Is Psoriasis Treatment Painful?
Most treatments are pain-free. Topical creams and light therapies are generally comfortable, while injections may cause slight, brief discomfort.
How Long Does It Take to See Results?
Results vary, but many patients notice improvements within a few weeks. Full benefits from certain therapies, like biologics, may take several months.
Is Treatment Safe for All Skin Types?
Yes, at Westover Hills Dermatology, we offer safe and effective treatments for all skin types and tones.
Can I Treat Multiple Areas at Once?
Yes, treatments can target multiple affected areas simultaneously, allowing for comprehensive symptom management.
Will I Need Lifelong Treatment?
Psoriasis is a chronic condition that often requires ongoing management. Treatment plans may evolve based on symptom severity and lifestyle changes.
Are There Any Side Effects From Treatment?
Side effects vary depending on the treatment. Topical treatments may cause mild irritation, while systemic medications and biologics carry risks that will be discussed during your consultation.
Can Psoriasis Impact My Mental Health?
Yes, living with psoriasis can affect emotional well-being. We encourage patients to speak openly about mental health concerns and can offer resources or referrals if needed.
Why Choose Westover Hills Dermatology for Psoriasis Treatment?
Westover Hills Dermatology in San Antonio, TX, is committed to providing compassionate, personalized care for patients with psoriasis and other skin conditions. Under the expert guidance of Dr. Mobolaji Opeola, our team develops customized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs.
We prioritize both immediate symptom relief and long-term skin health while offering access to the latest advancements in psoriasis management. Our patient-centered approach ensures you receive comprehensive care in a supportive and welcoming environment.
We are proud to serve patients throughout San Antonio, including Helotes, Live Oak, Alamo Ranch, the Medical Center area, and Stone Oak. No matter where you are on your skincare journey, our experienced team is here to help you achieve healthier, more comfortable skin.
Take Control of Your Psoriasis Today
Psoriasis can be challenging, but you don’t have to manage it alone. At Westover Hills Dermatology, we are committed to helping you find lasting relief and regain confidence in your skin. With personalized care, advanced treatments, and a compassionate team, you can take the first step toward healthier, more comfortable skin.
If you have psoriasis, contact us online or call us at (830) 261-3212 to schedule a consultation for treatment.
