What can we do for you?
Eczema and psoriasis are common skin conditions that affect millions of people in the UK. While both conditions cause discomfort, dryness, and inflammation, they also have a significant impact on a person’s self-esteem and quality of life. Fortunately, aesthetic management techniques offer relief by soothing symptoms, reducing flare-ups, and improving skin appearance.In this blog post, we’ll explore the latest aesthetic treatments and skincare practices that can help manage eczema and psoriasis.
1. Light Therapy (Phototherapy)
Light therapy, or phototherapy, is one of the most effective treatments for both eczema and psoriasis. This treatment uses controlled UVB light to reduce inflammation, slow down skin cell production, and calm irritated skin. Phototherapy can help reduce the severity of symptoms and extend the time between flare-ups.
How it works:
- UVB light penetrates the skin to target overactive immune cells, which are responsible for causing inflammation in psoriasis and eczema.
- Treatments are typically administered in a dermatologist’s office, but home phototherapy devices are also available for those who need ongoing care.
While phototherapy is generally safe, it is important to have the treatment supervised by a professional to avoid overexposure, which can cause skin damage.
2. Topical Steroids and Moisturisers
One of the most common treatments for eczema and psoriasis involves the use of topical steroids and medical-grade moisturisers. Topical steroids help reduce inflammation and itching, while moisturisers keep the skin hydrated and prevent it from drying out.
Aesthetic benefits:
- Steroid creams can reduce redness, scaling, and thickened patches of skin, improving the overall appearance.
- Using a high-quality, non-irritating moisturiser can improve the skin’s texture and barrier function, making the skin look smoother and less inflamed.
For long-term management, dermatologists recommend choosing fragrance-free, hypoallergenic moisturisers to minimise irritation. Regular moisturisation can help maintain healthy-looking skin, even during flare-ups.
3. Microdermabrasion (for Psoriasis)
For people with psoriasis, microdermabrasion can be a useful technique to reduce the appearance of thick, scaly patches. This treatment uses a fine abrasive tool to exfoliate the top layer of skin, removing dead cells and promoting new cell growth. Microdermabrasion can help smooth out the rough texture associated with psoriasis plaques.
Benefits:
- It improves skin texture and tone, making psoriasis patches less noticeable.
- Helps reduce the build-up of scales on the skin.
However, this treatment should be done with caution, as it may irritate sensitive skin. It’s essential to consult a qualified practitioner to ensure that microdermabrasion is appropriate for your condition.
4. Laser Therapy
Laser therapy is a targeted approach that can be used to treat psoriasis plaques by delivering concentrated light beams to affected areas. Lasers can reduce the redness and thickening of the skin by slowing down cell turnover and decreasing inflammation.
How it helps:
- Laser therapy can specifically target stubborn plaques, reducing the need for systemic medications.
- It can be more precise than traditional light therapy, focusing on smaller, problematic areas without affecting surrounding healthy skin.
For those with psoriasis, laser therapy can offer significant aesthetic improvements, especially when other treatments have failed to deliver results.
5. Specialised Skincare for Eczema and Psoriasis
Using the right skincare products is crucial for managing the aesthetic effects of eczema and psoriasis. Look for products that contain ingredients known for their soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, such as colloidal oatmeal, shea butter, and ceramides.
Recommended skincare routine:
- Cleansing: Use gentle, soap-free cleansers to avoid stripping the skin of its natural oils.
- Moisturising: Apply rich, emollient-based moisturisers immediately after bathing to lock in moisture and protect the skin’s barrier.
- Soothing Treatments: Consider using products with aloe vera or licorice extract to calm redness and irritation.
It’s essential to avoid harsh chemicals, fragrances, or dyes in skincare products, as these can trigger flare-ups. Medical-grade skincare lines often offer options specifically formulated for sensitive and reactive skin.
Managing Eczema and Psoriasis: Final Thoughts
Eczema and psoriasis can be challenging to manage, but with the right combination of aesthetic treatments and skincare practices, it is possible to soothe symptoms and improve the overall appearance of your skin. Whether through phototherapy, moisturisation, or targeted treatments like laser therapy, these techniques can provide much-needed relief and help you regain confidence in your skin.
For more information on managing eczema and psoriasis, check out the National Eczema Society and the Psoriasis Association, two authoritative resources offering support and advice for those living with these conditions.
Back to Articles