Here are some helpful skin care tips to help heal and soothe, and not irritate Psoriasis (from a dermatologist). As you may or may not know, moisturizing is key for Psoriasis. If the skin drys out too much, or if the skin gets injured, Psoriasis can more easily begin. Our tips:

• If you have Psoriasis, moisturize your skin at least one or two times per day. This Cetaphil fragrance free lotion is what we recommend.
• After each shower, moisturize within 5 minutes to lock in moisture.
• Rather than use harsh soaps for the skin, use mild soap or cleanser. This Dr. Bronner Castile soap is excellent. Another option is this excellent Adovia dead sea mud soap.
• If possible don't take more than one bath or shower per day. This is to prevent dry skin.

These are the eight top effective treatments we recommend for Psoriasis. Beyond these, there are many dozens more. In fact, including natural treatments plus prescription creams, ointments, sprays, injections, lotions and various other treatments, there are over a hundred treatment options!

These recommendations are from our experience as well as a collection of Psoriasis patients we've learned from.

1. Phototherapy is our favorite treatment. It is natural, safe, and effective for most people. I personally got my unit from Daavlin ( http://www.daavlin.net ) and it was covered mostly by insurance.

2. A well made soap is always helpful to calm Psoriasis. This is our favorite: http://mypsoriasistreatment.com/blog/To-Calm-Psoriasis-Acne-and-Eczema-A...

3. Tar products are very helpful for Psoriasis. Usually LCD mixtures have about 20% or less tar in the product.

4. Enbrel can work well for some people with Psoriasis. Dermatologist approval, prescription, and injections are needed.

5. Clobetasol is a fairly widely used, effective ointment used for Psoriasis. A prescription is needed.

6. Dovonex is a great skin cream which can be prescribed. It isn't very strong, so it may take some time to take effect. This one also needs a prescription.

7. Protopic is a very effective prescription ointment which can be prescribed for use on the face, ears, or genitals.

8. Cetaphil is a moisturizer which you can buy over the counter. It is an excellent way to help keep moisture in the skin and avoid more Psoriasis flare ups.

Here are the top five signs and symptoms that may mean you have Psoriasis. If you have one or more of these symptoms, we recommend you consider seeing your regular doctor or dermatologist to see if you may have Psoriasis.

1. Red, raised patches on your skin

2. Sections of skin that are itchy and slowly growing

3. Silvery sections which were or are itchy and red, now getting covered over

4. Skin that keeps peeling

5. Affected areas that start with elbows, scalp, knees, or ears. These areas are often the first affected by Psoriasis.