Psoriasis Treatment

At Houston Dermatology Specialists in Cypress, Texas, double board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon Christopher Downing, M.D., FAAD; dermatologist Joel Byrne, M.D.; and the entire team provide a range of customized psoriasis solutions.

We offer special expertise in diagnosing and treating various types of psoriasis to relieve discomfort and improve your quality of life.

What is psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that has several variations, the most common being plaque psoriasis. Plaque psoriasis causes the skin to produce new cells rapidly, resulting in thick, silvery, scaly patches called plaques. Plaques can appear anywhere on the skin, but they are most common on the scalp, elbows, knees, and torso.

Other types of psoriasis affect areas with frequent skin-on-skin friction, the palms of the hands and soles of the feet, the nails, and widespread areas of the body.

Over time, untreated psoriasis may lead to psoriatic arthritis, a condition that causes stiffness and discomfort in the joints.

Dr. Christopher Downing, board certified dermatologist and Mohs Surgeon at Houston Dermatology Specialists; Dr. Joel Byrne, dermatologist at Houston Dermatology Specialists; Bianca Barrera - Physician Assistant Certified
Dr. Christopher Downing, board certified dermatologist and Mohs Surgeon at Houston Dermatology Specialists; Dr. Joel Byrne, dermatologist at Houston Dermatology Specialists; Bianca Barrera - Physician Assistant Certified

Your Partners in Skin Health

At Houston Dermatology Specialists, dermatologist Dr. Joel Byrne and double board-certified dermatologist and Mohs micrographic surgeon Dr. Christopher Downing are committed to improving your skin health and quality of life through personalized medical and cosmetic dermatology treatment and services. Your comfort, satisfaction, and results are our top priority, which is apparent from the exceptional level of personal and professional attention you receive from Dr. Byrne and Dr. Downing when you visit us at Houston Dermatology Specialists.

What causes psoriasis?

While the cause of psoriasis is not fully understood, we know genetics and the immune system likely both play a role; the condition tends to run in families and is not contagious. Flare-ups may be triggered by stress, a skin injury or infection, certain medications, tobacco and alcohol use, and more.

Why choose Houston Dermatology Specialists for your psoriasis treatment?

Dr. Downing and Dr. Byrne arecommitted to delivering effective psoriasis solutions with compassion and integrity. He has a special dedication to helping psoriasis patients access the best and most innovative care. He previously co-chaired Houston’s National Psoriasis Foundation Walk To Cure Psoriasis, and he has contributed extensively to industry-leading research on treatment options. You can rely on Dr. Downing as a partner in your psoriasis journey.

What are my psoriasis treatment options?

While there is no known cure for psoriasis, there are many options for managing the condition and minimizing its effects.

Topical Therapies

Topical treatments include:

  • Corticosteroids
  • Emollients
  • Topical calcineurin inhibitors (TCIs)
  • Vitamin D analogs

Systemics

Oral or injectable systemic medications such as acitretin, cyclosporine, methotrexate, and others correct overactive immune responses that trigger symptoms. Some medications may slow joint damage that can eventually lead to psoriatic arthritis.

Biologics

Delivered by injection or IV infusion, biologics target only part of the immune system to suppress certain reactions that trigger psoriasis symptoms. Popular biologics include Humira, Enbrel, and Stelara.

The right approach for you will depend on your type of psoriasis and how your body responds to each treatment. Dr. Downing, Dr. Byrne, and their team will work closely with you to develop your treatment plan and monitor your improvement over time.

Request Your Psoriasis Treatment Consultation

To meet with our skincare specialists, please request a consultation online or give us a call at (713) 487-8233. We look forward to meeting you.

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