Surgery

Surgery is not used to treat psoriasis of the skin or scalp. But surgery may be used to treat nails that are severely disfigured or damaged from psoriasis. Surgical removal of a nail may be done in a clinic or doctor's office as an outpatient procedure.

Other Treatment

Phototherapy

Phototherapy uses ultraviolet light to slow the rapid growth of cells that occurs in psoriasis. This treatment can be effective, but your skin should be checked often by your doctor (at least once or twice a year) for any skin damage or skin cancer.

Complementary or alternative treatments

Complementary or alternative therapies are often used by people with skin diseases, including psoriasis.

These treatments include the use of herbs, vitamins, certain diets, and stress reduction. They may relieve psoriasis symptoms in some people.

Some people notice that natural sunlight and seawater help their psoriasis symptoms. People seeking this treatment may go to seaside resorts, some of which have special programs and medical help for people with psoriasis. For more information, see the website of the National Psoriasis Foundation at www.psoriasis.org.

Other Places To Get Help

Organizations