SKIN CONCERN:
Psoriasis Treatment
Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition. It is characterised by defined, red and scaly plaques (thickened skin). There are several subtypes of psoriasis.
It affects 2-4% of males and females and may start at any age. The severity of the psoriasis will fluctuate.
The usual presentation is of symmetrically distributed red, scaly plaques that have well-defined edges. The colour of the scale is usually a silvery white except in skin folds where they appear shiny.
At Advantage Skin Clinic, we offer psoriasis treatment in Wollongong designed to help address symptoms and manage flare-ups. Schedule an initial appointment today.
TRIGGERS
- Infections
- Injuries i.e. cuts and abrasions
- Obesity
- Sun exposure
- Smoking
- Excessive alcohol
- Stress
- Medications
- Stopping oral steroids or topical corticosteroids
Book an initial consultation
During your appointment, our GP skin doctors will analyse your medical history, the severity of your condition and any medications you’re currently taking to evaluate whether you’re an ideal candidate for treatment.
If you qualify, we’ll create a personalised care plan tailored to your specific needs and provide you with pre-treatment guidelines. Contact our psoriasis clinic to schedule a consultation.
FAQs
What are the different types of psoriasis?
Psoriasis can manifest in several forms:
- Plaque psoriasis — As the most common form of psoriasis, this type causes raised, red patches of skin covered in scales. They usually appear on the scalp, knees, elbows and lower back.
- Nail psoriasis — Psoriasis can also impact the nails, leading to pitting, abnormal nail growth and discolouration. In severe cases, the nails may become loose or separate from the nail bed.
- Guttate psoriasis — Often brought on by a bacterial infection like strep throat, guttate psoriasis is identified by scaling spots that appear on the arms, legs or torso.
- Inverse psoriasis — It mainly targets areas where the skin folds, like the groyne, buttocks and beneath the breasts. It results in smooth red patches that can become more irritated with sweat and friction.
- Pustular psoriasis — You may notice pus-filled white blisters within or around red patches of skin, commonly appearing on the fingers, toes, palms and soles of the feet.
- Erythrodermic psoriasis — A rare skin condition that covers most of the body with a red rash that resembles a burn. It can lead to intense symptoms such as fever, chills and dehydration.
What are the treatment options for psoriasis at Advantage Skin Clinic?
We offer in-depth consultations with our dermal clinician as well as Dermalux LED Light Therapy. Our psoriasis treatment clinic uses the Dermalux MD LED, the only LED device that is Medical CE certified to treat psoriasis.
Dermalux utilises different wavelengths of light to energise skin cells, boosting natural regeneration and repair processes. These functions often slow down due to ageing, skin conditions or trauma. By activating the body’s natural healing response, this psoriasis treatment helps speed up recovery, lower the risk of infection and alleviate itching.
How effective is Dermalux LED Light Therapy for Psoriasis & how long do the results last?
This non-invasive psoriasis treatment utilises red and near-infrared light therapy to penetrate deeply into the skin. It aids in accelerating cellular regeneration, calming inflammation and stimulating collagen production, resulting in improved skin texture.
Results typically last several weeks to a few months. By following our recommended aftercare guidelines, you can minimise potential risks and increase the likelihood of achieving your desired outcomes.
Can psoriasis be cured permanently through treatment?
Unfortunately, psoriasis cannot be permanently cured, as it is a chronic condition that tends to come and go with flare-ups. Even with successful management, it may return over time.
In some cases, multiple medications or a combination of treatments may be needed to find the most effective approach. A consultation with our GP skin doctors can help identify the most suitable option for you.
Are there any side effects to psoriasis treatments?
Like any treatment using LED light therapy, Dermalux may cause redness or inflammation in treated areas. Individuals taking photosensitive medications or those diagnosed with certain health conditions should consult their doctor before starting treatment, as they may be more sensitive to light exposure.
Is this treatment safe for pregnant or breastfeeding women?
The safety of Dermalux LED Therapy has not been thoroughly studied in breastfeeding or pregnant women. It’s best to consult your healthcare provider, who can assess the risks and determine if the treatment is suitable for you during this time.
Why choose Advantage Skin Clinic for psoriasis treatment in Wollongong?
Our team consists of six GP doctors, two registered nurses and two dermal clinicians who are experienced in treating psoriasis and other skin concerns. We utilise advanced technology, including DermEngine, an intelligent dermatology software designed for the imaging, documentation and analysis of skin conditions.
We also offer a range of dermatologist-approved skincare products for purchase at our psoriasis clinic.