August is Psoriasis Awareness Month, dedicated to shedding light on this chronic skin condition that affects millions of individuals worldwide. Psoriasis, as defined by the American Academy of Dermatology, causes the body to make new skin cells in days rather than weeks. As these cells pile up on the surface of the skin, you may see thick, scaly patches. There is currently no cure for psoriasis, however, numerous treatment options are available to manage its symptoms and improve the quality of life for those affected. One such treatment is XTRAC laser therapy.
Understanding Psoriasis
Psoriasis affects over 125 million people globally. It is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s immune system mistakenly triggers inflammation, causing the skin cells to multiply at an accelerated rate. This overproduction leads to the formation of raised, scaly patches known as plaques, typically found on the elbows, knees, scalp, and lower back. In addition to physical discomfort, psoriasis can have a profound impact on a person’s emotional well-being, causing embarrassment, self-consciousness, and reduced quality of life.
Conventional Psoriasis Treatments
Over the years, various treatment options have emerged, including topical creams, oral medications, phototherapy, and biologic injections. While these treatments have proven effective for many individuals, they may not provide the desired results for everyone. Moreover, some treatments have potential side effects or require frequent application, making them less convenient or desirable for long-term management.
Enter XTRAC Laser Treatment
XTRAC laser therapy represents a breakthrough in psoriasis management, offering a targeted and non-invasive approach to alleviate symptoms and improve skin appearance. The XTRAC laser system employs a concentrated beam of ultraviolet B (UVB) light, specifically targeting affected areas of the skin without harming surrounding healthy tissue. This precise targeting allows for optimal therapeutic outcomes while minimizing potential side effects.
Benefits of XTRAC Laser Treatment
High Efficacy: XTRAC laser treatments have shown remarkable efficacy in clinical studies, with significant improvements observed in more than 70% of patients treated. The focused UVB light penetrates the skin, suppressing the overactive immune response and slowing down the excessive growth of skin cells, leading to a reduction in inflammation and plaque formation.
Quick and Convenient: XTRAC laser therapy sessions are relatively short, typically lasting just a few minutes per treatment area. The treatment is performed by a trained dermatologist in an outpatient setting, allowing patients to resume their daily activities immediately after the session. Furthermore, XTRAC laser treatments often require fewer sessions compared to other treatment modalities, making it a convenient option for individuals with busy schedules.
Minimal Side Effects: Unlike systemic medications, which may carry risks of systemic side effects, XTRAC laser therapy is localized and associated with minimal adverse effects. Some patients may experience mild redness or itching at the treatment site, but these symptoms are temporary and typically subside quickly.
Versatility: XTRAC laser therapy is suitable for various forms of psoriasis, including plaque psoriasis, scalp psoriasis, and guttate psoriasis. It can effectively target hard-to-treat areas, such as the scalp, palms, and soles of the feet, where psoriasis plaques often develop.
We Can Help
Psoriasis can be a challenging condition to manage, both physically and emotionally. Fortunately, advancements in medical technology have given rise to innovative treatment options like XTRAC. With its targeted approach, minimal side effects, and impressive efficacy rates, XTRAC laser treatment offers hope and relief to those living with psoriasis. If you or a loved one are struggling with psoriasis, consult with a provider at SkinMD to explore whether XTRAC laser therapy is the right option for you. Let this Psoriasis Awareness Month be a time of empowerment and knowledge as we strive to enhance the lives of individuals affected by this chronic skin condition.
Sources:
National Psoriasis Foundation. (n.d.). About Psoriasis. Retrieved from https://www.psoriasis.org/about-psoriasis/
Kim, K. H., & Lee, S. W. (2017). A Study on the Treatment of Psoriasis Using Excimer Laser. Annals of Dermatology, 29(2), 192–198. doi: 10.5021/ad.2017.29.2.192
