At Dermatology Associates of Northern Virginia, now a part of U.S. Dermatology Partners, we are dedicated to assisting patients in the Sterling area with their skin care concerns. The dermatological world is constantly looking for more information on psoriasis. As of today, there is still no cure for the chronic condition, although treatments continually emerge to better control symptoms. For mild forms of psoriasis, topical creams can be very effective. For severe cases, ongoing treatment can become a multi-faceted approach.
For patients with psoriasis, understanding and identifying triggers is just as important as treating symptoms. By avoiding common triggers, patients can help minimize flare-ups.
Why do patients get psoriasis?
The human skin is in a constant state of change. Old, damaged cells are sloughed off to make room for new, healthy skin. In fact, did you know that your body completes a full cellular turnover of the skin in about a month?
For patients with psoriasis, that process is accelerated, and a full cycle can be complete in just a few short days. The sped-up cellular creation process for psoriasis sufferers is a result of autoimmune issues. Because of this, psoriasis is not contagious and can’t be spread to others.
Promising treatment with light therapy
Over the years, researchers have discovered that UV rays can positively impact the symptoms of psoriasis. Now, before you go running off to your local tanning salon to help your psoriasis, there are some things to consider.
Light treatment from a dermatologist utilizes specific wavelengths of UVB light, which causes the production of T-cells to slow down and helps cellular turnover return to a range closer to normal. Beds at tanning salons utilize UVA light which can increase the risk of skin cancer, skin damage, and can also prematurely age the skin while having little impact on cellular turnover.
If you are interested in learning more about the services and treatments we offer, contact Dermatology Associates of Northern Virginia Sterling. We assist patients of all ages in our state-of-the-art facility. We provide medical and cosmetic dermatology solutions to men and women at both our Sterling and Centreville locations. Our Sterling location can be reached at (703) 450-5959 and is conveniently located in Suite #105 at 21495 Ridgetop Circle. We accept new patients who are ready for quality, comprehensive dermatological care.
Click here to Request a Consultation Online at our Sterling Location!
