What I've Used to Treat Inverse Psoriasis
I have lived with psoriasis for 6 decades. In that time, I've only experienced a bout of inverse psoriasis twice. The first time was thirty years ago. The second time? Well, now. It's driving me crazy.
Inverse psoriasis doesn't appear like traditional plaque psoriasis. It's not scaly or rough. It's kind of shiny. My inverse psoriasis is attacking the folds of my armpits, knees, groin, and breasts. Inverse psoriasis presents in very sensitive areas, which need sensitive treatments.
Searching for alternative treatments for inverse psoriasis
I didn't want to treat my inverse with a steroid. I talked about it with my doctor (if you're living with inverse psoriasis, I encourage you to do the same), and I was set on finding an alternative treatment, not one I would have to wean off of in time.
Where did I turn? My beloved psoriasis community. I found recommendations for salicylic acid and vitamin D. Coal tar was among my findings, but in my experience, it's only better to use coal tar for plaque psoriasis.
So, what did I decide to try? I mixed salicylic acid with my daily moisturizer and applied it to my affected areas. I started taking vitamin D in supplement form once a week. It works for me that way.
What else I do? I continue to apply aloe vera gel; it soothes and moisturizes my skin and keeps it supple. So, during the day, I use aloe vera, and at night, I apply salicylic acid to avoid any reaction due to sunlight.
My inverse psoriasis is different than yours
I've come across other good recommendations too. I sometimes alternate my night treatments and mix coconut oil with my moisturizer. I apply enough to keep it moist but not sticky - I worry about sleep sweat and the potential that my skin might get too oily.
On top of my coconut oil moisturizer, I apply talcum powder. In fact, I keep talcum powder on my person most of the time for a quick fix and a semblance of relief on the go.
While this is how I approach treating my inverse psoriasis, it's not right, and it's not wrong. It's about what works best for our bodies.
We are all looking for answers. Could there be something I'm missing? Please let me know.
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