Community Views: When Plaques Crack and Bleed

For many living with plaque psoriasis, there is a period of trial and error as someone learns what works best on their skin. Plaques that crack and bleed can be painful, uncomfortable, and annoying. It makes sense that when dealing with them, someone would want relief as fast as possible.

Taking care of painful plaques

Psoriasis plaques can range from mild to severe. They most often affect the scalp, face, elbows, buttocks, and knees, but they can form anywhere on the body. When plaques crack and bleed, they can be a source of mental and emotional distress.

To find out which solutions work best, we reached out on the PlaquePsoriasis.com Facebook page and asked, “How do you take care of your psoriasis plaques when they crack and bleed?”

Nearly 30 people in the community shared. Here is what they said:

Over-the-counter creams

For most people living with plaque psoriasis, the quickest solution is one of the easiest and most affordable. A handful of drugstore lotions are specially formulated to treat skin conditions such as plaque psoriasis. They are thick and can also sometimes provide itch relief as well.

Some of these creams combine a half-dozen moisturizing ingredients, so you are tackling the problem on several fronts. Some of them contain salicylic acid, which can help prevent recurrences. Salicylic acid is what is known as a peeling agent, and it works to help the skin shed the affected plaques.

“Gold Bond psoriasis relief cream.”
“Nivea Creme is a life changer!”

Hydrogen peroxide

Some people with plaque psoriasis swear by taking baths that have hydrogen peroxide added to the water. Other people dab hydrogen peroxide onto a cotton ball and blot their scales with it. Hydrogen peroxide can help with itching and help scales heal faster.

“Peroxide.”

Coconut oil

For those who want an all-natural solution, coconut oil can be a good choice. Many brands have no chemicals and no additives. It can also be a great pick for people who find other creams and lotions irritating. When used on the scalp, coconut oil can also help soften and loosen scales.

“Coconut oil.”
“I have started putting coconut oil on mine and it seems to really help.”

Prescription topical creams

Prescription-strength creams can include medicines such as steroids that fight inflammation, itching, and/or irritation. Often these creams help a variety of skin conditions, including plaque psoriasis. These prescription medicines can come in several forms, including cream, ointment, shampoo, and scalp treatments.

“Kenalog topical.”
“Clobetasol topical.”

Vaseline

Many folks with this diagnosis say that the thicker the cream, the better, and almost nothing is thicker than Vaseline. In general, the thicker the cream or lotion, the better its ability to trap moisture and help the skin heal.

“Vaseline.”
“Vaseline 100 percent!”

Antibiotic ointment

Truly, what it often comes down to is a personal preference. For some people with plaque psoriasis, an antibiotic ointment is not only a thick cream that traps moisture, but it can also keep germs out after a plaque has been removed and the skin under is new and raw. If this type of cream works for you and provides comfort, go for it.

“Antibiotic ointment so they do not get infected.”

Thank you!

An open wound or fissure in the skin can be painful, and for some people, a source of worry. With the proper care and first-aid techniques, it’s possible to reduce the risk of infection and help your skin heal. Be sure to talk to your doctor about any skin concerns, especially open wounds.

We want to say thank you to everyone who shared their advice, thoughts, and experiences. We are grateful that so many people contributed. Thank you.