Psoriasis – Long Term Solutions
Psoriasis is a frustrating skin condition that affects an estimated 7.5 million people in the United States.** The symptoms of this problem often manifest in the form of red, scaly skin patches that can also itch and cause widespread discomfort. With time, the effects of psoriasis may compound and lead to inflammation in the joints (psoriatic arthritis) and even cause fatigue.*
At California Skin Institute, we know this problem all too well. Having worked with thousands of psoriasis patients throughout their careers, our providers have seen first-hand the impact this condition can have on a person’s life.*
The constant struggle with the physical discomfort, the incessant need to use creams and ointments, and the psychological pressure of self-consciousness and having to hide affected areas – all of these can really affect a patient’s quality of life.*
However, though psoriasis does not yet have a cure, there has been significant improvement in treatment technology over the last few decades that offer long term psoriasis solutions.* Today, California Skin Institute providers can use a number of advanced techniques – like the XTRAC Excimer laser – to significantly alleviate psoriasis symptoms and improve a patients’ quality of life.*
What is Psoriasis?
Brought on by a combination of genetic and trigger factors, the vicious cycle of psoriasis is caused by abnormally fast growth of skin cells and an inflammatory response by the immune system.
Plaque psoriasis, which makes up the majority cases of this condition, is characterized by red patches of skin that often have white scales. These patches are typically found on the elbows, knees, scalp, and back, but can appear anywhere on the body.
Further, psoriatic patches can significantly vary in size; from small areas the size of a coin, to large swaths of lesions covering the entire back, elbows, or other parts of the body.
XTRAC Excimer Laser for Psoriasis
To help patients struggling with psoriasis, California Skin Institute providers offer treatments with the XTRAC Excimer laser, to reduce symptoms and improve the skin’s appearance.*
The XTRAC Excimer laser uses focused UVB rays to treat plaque psoriasis.* These rays act to slow down the growth of skin cells – the underlying cause of the condition.* As the growth of new cells is brought closer to a more normal cycle, the red, scaly lesions associated with psoriasis become less visible, and the appearance of skin improves.*
Insurance Coverage
Many psoriasis sufferers don’t realize that many health insurance companies actually cover XTRAC Excimer laser treatments, and don’t consider the procedure to be cosmetic!* If you’re not sure whether your insurance covers this procedure, give us a call and we can help you figure it out.*
Psoriasis Treatments
The benefit of the XTRAC Excimer laser is that it can typically produce improvement with fewer treatments, due to its targeted nature.* This is a huge improvement over the older light box technology, which required the patient to stand inside a machine that delivered UVB rays to the entire body.* The older technology wasn’t as efficient as the XTRAC laser because it treated the entire body, rather than the specific problem area.*
The XTRAC Excimer laser psoriasis treatments are more efficient and have the added benefit of targeting specific psoriasis patches with a hand piece.* This allows the treatment to be more focused and prevents healthy skin from being unnecessarily exposed to UVB light.*
No Pain!
Treatments with the XTRAC laser are typically quick and there is no discomfort or pain.* Most patients don’t experience any physical sensation at all.*
Your Sessions
When you visit California Skin Institute for psoriasis treatment, one of our experienced providers will discuss all of your options in detail, and will create a customized treatment plan.*
A typical course of treatment consists with short sessions several times per week, for several months, but will of course vary depending on each patient’s unique needs.* With light therapy for psoriasis, the consistency of treatment is key to achieving visible improvement.*
After their initial set of psoriasis treatments is complete, California Skin Institute patients typically experience a significant decrease in symptoms, their condition becomes much more manageable, and the frequency of sessions is reduced.*
Start Now!
If you’re suffering from psoriasis, there’s no reason to wait!* Please call one of the California Skin Institute practices listed below, or just fill out the Contact Form to schedule online!
Mountain View (650) 969-5600
Monterey – Ryan Ranch (831) 333-9008
San Jose – Los Gatos (408) 369-5600
San Mateo (650) 348-1242
San Francisco – Laurel Heights (415) 831-5600
*Individual results may vary and are not guaranteed.
* https://www.psoriasis.org/about-us