Psoriasis Treatment in Northwest Arkansas

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin condition that causes red, scaly patches of skin. While symptoms may come and go, effective treatment can help reduce flare-ups, relieve discomfort, and improve your skin's appearance. Our dermatology providers offer personalized psoriasis treatment for children and adults.

What Is Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that causes skin cells to build up more quickly than normal. Instead of renewing over several weeks, skin cells accumulate within days, creating thick, scaly plaques that may itch, crack, or become painful.

Psoriasis is not contagious and cannot be spread from person to person. While there is no cure, many patients achieve excellent symptom control with modern treatment options.

What is Psoriasis

Common Symptoms of Psoriasis

Psoriasis symptoms vary depending on the type and severity of the condition.

Common symptoms include:

  • Thick, raised patches of skin (plaques)
  • Silvery-white scales
  • Red or inflamed skin
  • Dry, cracked skin that may bleed
  • Itching, burning, or soreness
  • Thickened or discolored nails
  • Joint pain in some patients

 

Symptoms often occur in cycles, with periods of flare-ups followed by times of improvement.

Where Does Psoriasis Commonly Occur?

Psoriasis can develop almost anywhere on the body but is most often found on the:

  • Scalp
  • Elbows
  • Knees
  • Lower back
  • Hands
  • Feet
  • Fingernails and toenails

 

Some patients develop psoriasis in skin folds, on the face, or in the genital area.

Types of Psoriasis

Several forms of psoriasis exist, including:

Plaque Psoriasis

The most common type, characterized by thick, red patches covered with silvery scales.

Scalp Psoriasis

Appears on the scalp and may resemble severe dandruff.

Guttate Psoriasis

Small, drop-shaped spots that often develop after a strep infection.

Inverse Psoriasis

Smooth, shiny patches that develop in skin folds.

Pustular Psoriasis

A less common form that produces pus-filled bumps surrounded by inflamed skin.

What Causes Psoriasis?

Psoriasis develops because of an overactive immune system combined with genetic and environmental factors.

Common triggers include:

  • Stress
  • Illness or infection
  • Skin injuries
  • Certain medications
  • Smoking
  • Heavy alcohol use
  • Cold, dry weather

 

Understanding your personal triggers can help reduce future flare-ups.

What Causes Psoriasis
Melanoma Advanced Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center

How Is Psoriasis Diagnosed?

Most cases can be diagnosed through a skin examination and review of your medical history.

Occasionally, a skin biopsy may be recommended to confirm the diagnosis or rule out other skin conditions.

Psoriasis Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the severity and location of your psoriasis.

Topical Medications

Prescription creams and ointments help reduce inflammation and slow skin cell growth.

Light Therapy

Controlled ultraviolet light treatments may improve moderate psoriasis.

Oral Medications

Some patients benefit from prescription oral medications that help regulate the immune response.

Biologic Therapies

Advanced biologic medications target specific parts of the immune system and may provide significant improvement for moderate to severe psoriasis.

 

Our providers will recommend the treatment plan that’s right for your symptoms and lifestyle.

Living with Psoriasis

Managing psoriasis often involves both medical treatment and healthy skin care habits.

Helpful tips include:

  • Moisturize daily
  • Avoid known triggers
  • Manage stress
  • Protect your skin from injury
  • Follow your prescribed treatment plan
  • Keep regular dermatology appointments
Advanced Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center Skin Exam Skin Cancer Screening

When Should You See a Dermatologist?

Schedule an appointment if:

  • Symptoms continue despite over-the-counter products
  • Plaques become painful or widespread
  • Your scalp or nails are affected
  • You experience joint pain along with skin symptoms
  • You’re unsure whether your rash is psoriasis or another condition

 

Early diagnosis and treatment can improve both your skin and your quality of life.

Frequently asked questions

Q1: Is psoriasis contagious?

No. Psoriasis cannot be spread from one person to another.

Yes. Psoriasis is caused by an overactive immune system that speeds up skin cell production.

There is currently no cure, but many treatments can successfully control symptoms and reduce flare-ups.

Yes. Stress is one of the most common psoriasis triggers.

Psoriasis usually causes thicker, well-defined plaques with silvery scales, while eczema more commonly causes intensely itchy, dry, inflamed skin. A dermatologist can determine which condition you have.

Related Resources

Skin Exams

Regular skin exams help identify suspicious moles, skin cancer, and other skin conditions early. Learn what to expect during a comprehensive skin examination and when it’s time to schedule one.

Eczema

Eczema and psoriasis can appear similar but have different causes and treatments. Learn how dermatologists diagnose eczema and develop personalized treatment plans.

Rosacea

Rosacea causes facial redness, flushing, and sensitive skin. Learn about the symptoms, triggers, and treatments available.

Rashes

Rashes can have many causes, from eczema and infections to allergic reactions and autoimmune conditions. Learn how dermatologists diagnose and treat common skin rashes.

Moles & Skin Growths

Learn how dermatologists evaluate moles, skin tags, cysts, and other common skin growths to determine whether treatment is needed.

Pediatric Skin Conditions

Learn about the skin conditions that frequently affect infants, children, and teens and when to seek expert care.

Why Patients Choose Us

Experienced Dermatology Providers

Expert care focused on long-term skin health.

Comprehensive Care for All Ages

Comprehensive care for children and adults

Personalized Treatment Plans

Personalized treatment plans based on your symptoms and lifestyle

Convenient Locations

Convenient locations throughout Northwest Arkansas

Expert Psoriasis Care in Northwest Arkansas

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin condition that causes thick, red, scaly patches of skin and can affect people of all ages. At Advanced Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center, PLLC, our dermatology providers diagnose and treat plaque psoriasis, scalp psoriasis, and other forms of the condition using personalized treatment plans that may include topical medications, light therapy, oral medications, or advanced biologic therapies. Our goal is to help reduce flare-ups, relieve symptoms, and improve your long-term skin health.

Advanced Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center Fayetteville Arkansas

Our Locations

Advanced Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center, PLLC proudly serves patients throughout Northwest Arkansas with convenient locations including:

Advanced Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center, PLLC Fayetteville

Monday – Friday, 8 am – 5 pm

Advanced Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center, PLLC Rogers

Monday – Friday, 8 am – 5 pm

Advanced Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center, PLLC Bentonville 

Wednesday - Thursday 8 am – 5 pm

Advanced Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center, PLLC Harrison

Monday – Thursday, 8 am – 5 pm