Topical Applications

Emollients: creams, lotions, ointments, foams and sprays

An emollient is an ingredient found in topical applications to soften and soothe skin. They are valuable and inexpensive treatment options for many individuals with mild to moderate psoriasis. When psoriasis is more severe, topicals are likely to be combined with oral medications, phototherapy, or biologics.

Emollients relieve symptoms of dryness and irritation while assisting in managing overgrowth and the shedding of skin cells that occurs with psoriasis. It can help soften plaques and cracks, enhance the skin’s ability to hold water and create a barrier that protects skin from bacteria and other irritants. As a result, this improves the skin’s barrier function and relieves inflammation. Emollients can be found in many different forms such as creams, lotions, ointments, foams, sprays, gels and shampoos and can be used directly on your skin.

Humectant and occlusive agents are the two key ingredients in a moisturizing product. The combination of ingredients determines the use and consistency of a product. Humectant enhances the skin’s ability to hold water and an occlusive agent slows water loss by creating a protective barrier on the skin’s surface.  These ingredients can feel thick and sticky, so manufacturers combine them with other substances to improve their ability to spread and penetrate the skin. Thicker products are often a good choice for people with psoriasis as they can prevent dryness but it’s best to consult with a physician to determine the ideal course of treatment.

When choosing a moisturizer for psoriasis, you may also want to consider the smell, ease of use, and the ingredients in the product. Hypoallergenic products (a product containing fewer allergy-producing substances) are commonly used as they less likely to irritate the skin. Some fragrances and chemicals found in moisturizers could further aggravate skin instead of relieving symptoms so it may be best to look for a fragrance-free lotion.