Psoriasis can cause more than visible changes to your skin. Itching, scaling, discomfort, and recurring flare-ups can affect your everyday life. With more than 8 million people in the U.S. living with psoriasis, you’re not alone.
August is Psoriasis Awareness Month, making it a good time to learn more about the condition and the treatment options available. If you’re looking for a psoriasis doctor in Fairfax, VA, a dermatologist can help you understand your symptoms and find a treatment approach that works for you.
What Type of Doctor Treats Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition, which means it often requires ongoing management rather than a one-time treatment. A dermatologist specializes in diagnosing and treating conditions affecting the skin, hair, and nails and can determine whether psoriasis is causing your symptoms.
During an appointment, your dermatologist can examine your skin, discuss your symptoms and medical history, and assess how psoriasis is affecting you. From there, they can recommend treatment based on factors such as the severity of your psoriasis, where it appears on your body, and how you’ve responded to previous treatments.
If you’re experiencing persistent itching, scaling, redness, or patches of thickened skin, seeing a dermatologist can help you get an accurate diagnosis and appropriate care.
What Treatments Are Available for Psoriasis?
There isn’t one treatment that works for everyone with psoriasis. Your dermatologist may recommend different options depending on the type and severity of your condition.
For mild or localized psoriasis, treatment often begins with topical medications such as creams or ointments. These can help reduce inflammation, scaling, and itching.
Depending on your symptoms and how extensive your psoriasis is, your dermatologist may recommend a topical medication, phototherapy, an oral medication, a biologic, or a combination of treatments.
Don’t Forget About Scalp Psoriasis
Psoriasis can affect many areas of the body, including the elbows, knees, nails, and scalp. Scalp psoriasis can be particularly frustrating because itching and scaling can be difficult to manage and may be noticeable in everyday life.
Persistent scratching and inflammation can also contribute to temporary hair shedding. If you have psoriasis affecting your scalp, it’s important to let your dermatologist know. Treatment can be adjusted to address the scalp specifically rather than treating it the same way as psoriasis on other parts of the body.
A dermatologist can also help determine whether symptoms on your scalp are actually caused by psoriasis or another condition that may look similar.
When Should You See a Dermatologist for Psoriasis?
If you’ve been trying to manage psoriasis on your own and your symptoms aren’t improving, it may be time to see a dermatologist.
You should also consider professional care if your psoriasis:
- Covers a large area of your body
- Causes significant itching, pain, or discomfort
- Frequently flares up
- Affects your scalp or nails
- Interferes with sleep or daily activities
- Doesn’t respond to over-the-counter products
Even if your psoriasis seems manageable, getting an accurate diagnosis and discussing treatment options can help you better understand your condition and how to manage it over time.
The Right Psoriasis Doctor in Fairfax, VA
If psoriasis is affecting your skin or your daily life, you don’t have to manage it on your own. A dermatologist can help you understand your options and find a treatment plan that works for you.
At ACS Dermatology, our team provides medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology care for patients throughout Northern Virginia. If you’re looking for a psoriasis doctor in Fairfax, VA, we’re here to help you understand your treatment options and take the next step toward healthier, more comfortable skin.
Schedule an appointment today to learn more about psoriasis treatment and find out how our team can help.