Topical treatments, such as lotions and creams, are the first line of defense for psoriasis. Important ingredients include salicylic acid and coal tar.
Psoriasis is a chronic condition, so learning to manage triggers and flares is essential to your health. There are mild, moderate, and severe cases of psoriasis. The severity depends on how much of the body is affected:
| Severity Level | Percent of Body Covered |
| mild | under 3% |
| moderate | 3 to 10% |
| severe | more than 10% |
How you manage your psoriasis will depend on its severity.
You should see your doctor to determine if you have psoriasis. Together, you can discuss an effective treatment plan. You can manage psoriasis with one or more of the following:
- over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription topicals, such as lotions or creams
- phototherapy (light therapy)
- systemic treatments, including orals, biologics, and biosimilars
Topical treatments are the first-line management for mild cases of psoriasis. These can be used in combination with other psoriasis treatments for moderate and severe cases.
Emollients create a barrier on the skin’s surface. The barrier protects the surface with oils and reduces the loss of water in the skin. This helps to reduce skin dryness, itching, and irritation.
Although prescription topical treatments may be the best method for alleviating severe psoriasis symptoms, OTC emollients can also bring relief to those with milder psoriasis. They may also be used in combination with other treatments.
Lotions, creams, and ointments can help reduce scaling, as well as soften and smooth skin. You can apply a variety of emollients daily. However, not all lotions are good for psoriasis, and some may exacerbate your symptoms.
Certain ingredients found in emollients are known to help with psoriasis symptoms. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the ingredients salicylic acid and coal tar for treating psoriasis.
Salicylic acid
Salicylic acid is a keratolytic, or a peeling agent. It helps the outer layer of the skin to shed. It can lift psoriasis scales, soften the skin, and reduce swelling.
Warning for using salicylic acid
Use caution when using products with salicylic acid. Overuse can result in skin irritation and weakened hair shafts, which can lead to temporary hair loss.
Coal tar
Coal tar can slow rapid skin cell growth and improve the appearance of your skin. It can also reduce itching, inflammation, and scaling.
People commonly use it on the scalp. Products containing coal tar vary from one brand to another, so test it on a small area of the skin when trying it for the first time.
If your skin reddens in response to the coal tar, try applying it after moisturizer.
According to the FDA, products with coal tar concentrations between 0.5 to 5% are safe and effective for psoriasis.
Warning for using coal tar
Coal tar can irritate your skin. It can also stain clothing, bedding, and light-colored hair. It can also cause your skin to be more sensitive to the sun, so before you go outside, you should wash it off thoroughly and use sunscreen.
Other ingredients that may help
Other ingredients that can help psoriasis symptoms include:
- aloe vera
- jojoba
- zinc pyrithione
- capsaicin
- glycerin
Keep in mind that the effectiveness of these products varies from person to person, and many have not been medically evaluated for the specific treatment of psoriasis.
It is also important to note that “natural” ingredients can also cause side effects or allergic reactions. If you experience irritation after using a certain product, do not use it again until you talk with your doctor.
Psoriasis responds differently to certain emollients depending on the person. It is important to try different products and determine a skincare routine that works best for you.
Although high-end emollients are available, cheaper solutions such as certain cooking oils and shortening can help dry and irritated skin.
The National Psoriasis Foundation recognizes several OTC emollient products to treat psoriasis symptoms. These include:
- Neutrogena T/Sal Therapeutic Shampoo
- MG217 Medicated Multi-Symptom Coal Tar Ointment
- Aveeno Skin Relief Fragrance-Free Moisturizing Body Lotion
Other lotions that can help psoriasis are found at most pharmacies and grocery stores. The foundation also recommends products by:
- CeraVe
- Tower 28 Beauty
- Dermarest
Be sure to select hypoallergenic and alcohol-, fragrance-, and dye-free products to lessen the chance of skin irritation.
Search for more products
The National Psoriasis Foundation has a seal of recognition, which is awarded to non-irritating products that are safe for individuals with psoriasis. Check out their database here.
It’s essential to create a daily skincare routine if you have psoriasis. You should take extra care to make sure your skin stays moisturized. This can help lessen the effects of your condition.
Talk with your doctor about what products will work best with your symptoms, as well as if you experience irritation after using certain products.