Psoriasis Treatment in Chicago & Park Ridge | Illinois Dermatology Institute

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that causes thick, scaly, and irritated skin patches. Symptoms may range from mild dryness and flaking to persistent plaques associated with itching, discomfort, and skin inflammation.

At Illinois Dermatology Institute, our board-certified dermatologists provide personalized psoriasis treatment in Chicago Lakeview, Chicago Loop, and Park Ridge, along with surrounding areas.

What Is Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is an immune-mediated skin condition that speeds up skin cell turnover, causing skin cells to build up rapidly on the surface of the skin. This results in thickened, scaly plaques and chronic inflammation.

Psoriasis commonly affects the scalp, elbows, knees, lower back, hands, feet, and nails. The condition may appear in localized areas or involve multiple parts of the body depending on the type and severity of psoriasis.

Common psoriasis symptoms include:

• Thick, scaly skin plaques
• Red or inflamed patches
• Dry or cracked skin
• Itching or burning
• Flaking or scaling
• Nail thickening or discoloration
• Scalp irritation

Symptoms may improve and worsen periodically depending on triggers and flare-ups.

What Causes Psoriasis?

Psoriasis develops due to immune system dysfunction and genetic factors that accelerate skin cell production.

Common psoriasis triggers include:

• Stress
• Skin injury or irritation
• Infections
• Cold or dry weather
• Certain medications
• Smoking
• Alcohol consumption

Identifying triggers may help reduce flare-ups and symptom severity.

Types of Psoriasis

Our dermatologists diagnose and treat multiple types of psoriasis, including:

• Plaque Psoriasis: Plaque psoriasis is the most common form and causes raised, scaly patches covered with silvery-white buildup. It commonly affects the elbows, knees, scalp, and lower back.
• Scalp Psoriasis: Scalp psoriasis causes redness, flaking, itching, and thick scaling on the scalp. Symptoms may range from mild dandruff-like scaling to widespread plaques.
• Guttate Psoriasis: Guttate psoriasis appears as small, drop-shaped lesions that commonly develop after infections such as strep throat. It is more common in children and young adults.
• Inverse Psoriasis: Inverse psoriasis develops in skin folds such as the underarms, groin, or beneath the breasts. It often appears as smooth, red, inflamed skin without thick scaling.
• Nail Psoriasis: Nail psoriasis may cause nail thickening, discoloration, pitting, or separation from the nail bed.

Psoriasis Treatment Options

Many different treatments are available to help manage psoriasis symptoms, reduce inflammation, and slow excessive skin cell buildup. Treatment recommendations depend on the type, severity, and location of psoriasis.

Topical Psoriasis Treatments

• Corticosteroid Creams & Ointments: Topical corticosteroids may help reduce inflammation, scaling, redness, and itching associated with psoriasis flare-ups.
• Moisturizers & Emollients: Fragrance-free moisturizers may help reduce dryness, scaling, and skin irritation while supporting the skin barrier.
• Salicylic Acid Solutions: Salicylic acid may help soften and remove thick scales associated with psoriasis plaques.
• Coal Tar Distillates: Coal tar products may help reduce scaling, itching, and inflammation in some patients with psoriasis.

Advanced Psoriasis Treatments

Advanced dermatology treatments may be recommended for persistent or widespread psoriasis symptoms.

Phototherapy

Controlled ultraviolet light therapy may help reduce inflammation and slow rapid skin cell growth.

Excimer Laser Therapy

Targets localized psoriasis plaques while minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy skin.

Scalp Psoriasis Treatments

Specialized scalp treatments may help manage flaking, irritation, and thick scale buildup.

Personalized Medical Dermatology Care

Comprehensive psoriasis management may include long-term treatment planning based on symptom severity and flare-up frequency.

Related Services:

Laser treatments
Medical Dermatology Services

What Is the Most Effective Psoriasis Treatment?

The best psoriasis treatment depends on symptom severity, affected areas, and flare-up frequency. Many patients benefit from a combination of topical therapies, skincare management, phototherapy, and long-term dermatology care to help control symptoms and improve skin health.

How Long Does Psoriasis Treatment Take?

Psoriasis is a chronic condition that often requires continuous management. Mild symptoms may improve within several weeks, while moderate to severe psoriasis may require longer-term treatment and maintenance care.

When Should You See a Dermatologist for Psoriasis?

You should see a dermatologist if:

• Symptoms become persistent or widespread
• Over-the-counter treatments are not helping
• Skin plaques become painful or cracked
• Nail or scalp symptoms worsen
• Joint pain develops alongside psoriasis symptoms

Early treatment may help reduce inflammation and prevent worsening symptoms.

Psoriasis Treatment in Chicago & Park Ridge

Illinois Dermatology Institute provides psoriasis treatment at multiple convenient locations, including:

• Chicago Lakeview
• Chicago Loop
• Park Ridge

Our dermatology team offers personalized psoriasis care focused on long-term symptom management and skin health.

Book a Psoriasis Consultation

If you are experiencing persistent scaling, itching, or psoriasis flare-ups, our dermatology team can help.

Schedule a psoriasis consultation at Illinois Dermatology Institute for personalized evaluation and treatment options.