HealthInfo Aoraki South Canterbury
Although there is no cure for your psoriasis, there are many effective treatments that can keep your psoriasis under control.
You often need to try different treatments to see what works for you. Many psoriasis treatments are only available on prescription from your doctor, some are only available through a skin specialist (a dermatologist).
As well as self-care, treatments depend on your symptoms and include the following:
Topical treatments are products you put on your skin, such as:
You can buy tar shampoos from the supermarket or pharmacy to help with psoriasis on your scalp. If this isn't working, your doctor may suggest you try a product containing betamethasone valerate (Beta Scalp). This is a steroid medication and is only available on prescription. You can also get a calcipotriol scalp lotion.
For thicker scaling, a product called Coco-scalp may help. Use as directed on the packaging.
If your psoriasis is very bad and not getting better with topical treatment, your doctor may refer you to see a specialist skin doctor (a dermatologist).
Treatment may then include:
You can read more about treatment for psoriasis here.
Unfortunately, there is limited access to specialist skin doctors (dermatologists) in the public health system.
If you prefer, you can pay to see a private dermatologist. You can find a private dermatologist on Healthpoint.
HealthInfo recommends the following pages
More detailed information about the treatment of psoriasis.
A leaflet explaining topical treatment of psoriasis, how it's used and how to find out more about it.
This website provides information about the different types of psoriasis, advice on living with psoriasis and the different treatment options. It includes downloadable resources.
Written by HealthInfo clinical advisers. Last reviewed August 2021.
See also:
Review key: HIPSO-20776