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Psoriasis Treatment at Dermatology Associates of Ithaca

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that can affect people of all ages. At Dermatology Associates of Ithaca, we offer proven, individualized treatments for psoriasis, whether symptoms are mild, widespread, or more severe.
Our board-certified dermatology providers work closely with each patient to create a customized treatment plan focused on controlling symptoms, reducing flares, and improving overall quality of life in a compassionate and supportive setting.

What to Expect During a Psoriasis Evaluation

A psoriasis evaluation helps us understand how the condition is affecting your skin and overall health.
During your visit, your provider will:
  • Review your personal and family medical history
  • Ask about triggers, flare patterns, and joint symptoms
  • Examine affected areas of the skin and scalp
  • Assess disease severity and distribution
  • Discuss treatment options based on your symptoms and lifestyle
Because psoriasis can be associated with other health conditions, your provider may also recommend coordination with your primary care physician or additional monitoring.
Schedule a Psoriasis Consultation

Why Treating Psoriasis Is Important

Psoriasis is not contagious, but it is a chronic inflammatory condition driven by an overactive immune system. Without treatment, psoriasis can worsen over time and may be associated with:
Persistent redness, scaling, and itching
Joint inflammation (psoriatic arthritis), which can cause permanent joint damage
Increased risk of other conditions such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease
Early and consistent treatment helps control symptoms and reduce the risk of complications.
Schedule an Appointment

Common Psoriasis Treatment Options

Treatment recommendations depend on disease severity, affected areas, and individual patient needs.

Topical Treatments

Topical therapies are often used for mild to moderate psoriasis.

Topical steroids

  • Reduce inflammation, redness, and scaling
  • Typically applied twice daily for short treatment cycles
  • Followed by a rest period to protect skin health

Types of topical steroids may include:

  • Low-potency steroids, such as hydrocortisone, used on sensitive areas (face, armpits, groin)
  • Higher-potency steroids, such as clobetasol or fluocinonide, used for thicker plaques on the body for limited durations

Moisturizers are applied after topical steroids to support skin barrier repair.

Vitamin D-Based Treatments

Topical vitamin D creams, such as calcipotriene or calcipotriol:

  • Help slow abnormal skin cell growth
  • Do not cause skin thinning
  • Are often used during steroid “break weeks” or on sensitive areas
Rosacea treatment consultation in Ithaca NY dermatology office

Light Therapy for Psoriasis

Psoriasis often improves with controlled exposure to ultraviolet light.

UVB Light Therapy (Narrowband / NB-UVB, Broadband / BB-UVB):

  • Is a well-established treatment for psoriasis
  • Is performed in-office, typically three times per week
  • Requires short visits
  • May take 6–8 weeks to show improvement

Light therapy is often recommended when topical treatments are insufficient.

Systemic and Biologic Treatments

For patients with moderate to severe or widespread psoriasis, systemic treatments may be considered.
These may include:

  • Biologic medications (such as etanercept, adalimumab, ustekinumab, or secukinumab), which target specific immune pathways
  • Oral medications, such as methotrexate, in select cases

Systemic treatments may offer convenience and improved control but require careful monitoring due to immune effects and insurance authorization requirements. Your provider will discuss risks, benefits, and alternatives in detail.

Psoriasis of the Scalp

Psoriasis commonly affects the scalp and may cause scaling, itching, and discomfort.

Treatment options may include:

  • Medicated foams, oils, solutions, or lotions
  • Prescription topical therapies
  • Systemic treatment for severe cases

Your provider will tailor treatment based on severity and response.

Ongoing Care and Lifestyle Considerations

Psoriasis symptoms may worsen with:
Cold weather and dry air
Stress
Certain infections or medications
Ongoing management may include:
Regular follow-up visits
Moisturizing routines
Monitoring for joint symptoms
Coordination with your primary care provider

Schedule a Psoriasis Consultation

If you are experiencing symptoms of psoriasis or struggling with flares despite treatment, our experienced dermatology providers are here to help.
Schedule an Appointment

What Our Patients Say

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Karen F.

I went for a facial with Reganne, and it was wonderful! She was the right balance of chatty and quiet so that I felt personally welcomed but also able to relax and soak in all the luxurious treatment. She also was so kind and considerate, being very careful which products she used because she knew I am sensitive to some fragrances. I scheduled my appointment for the end of my regular work week, and now, this evening I’m feeling fabulous!

RJ and MJ Olson

We both chose the practice for our dermatology well checks and any issues that may be discovered during those visits. Most of the practitioners have been great. I also enjoy the facial services they offer at the practice. Both estheticians I have seen there have been wonderful! They have both been very accommodating given multiple allergies that can make my skin reactive. I look forward to my time with the esthetician.

Cathy Robinson

The entire staff is courteous and very helpful. They were right on time. They work together well. They are accepting of questions and are willing to answer the questions. They offer reminders for follow up appointments. I am very pleased to be a patient of this office.

Susan Zeller

As a new patient I greatly appreciated getting an appointment with a few days of submitting my application form instead of a long wait. The staff at the front desk were very pleasant, efficient and helpful in making this happen. The service I received from my doctor was good.

Tom

David M was great in all key areas that were important to me. Skill, bedside manner, updates during the surgery and his summary after the procedure. His nurse was also first rate. Thank you both for all that you did for me. NP Donna has treated me previously at this practice and I echo my comments here for her and the nurses, reception and scheduling employees. Thank you all for a great experience

Jennifer Gemmell

This was the most pleasant doctors appointment I’ve ever experienced. The wait wasn’t too long and there were so many beautiful and interesting things to look at while I was there: beautiful art well presented with identification and background details, fascinating terrariums and other plants, and even an Asian meditation garden. Dr. Macallister was very personable, professional and thorough. I was quite happy with her care. The staff too, were professional and pleasant.

Reece W

Saw Donna and Megan, had a concerning spot on my face. I needed an injection and they put me eat ease and really helped me to feel comfortable and relaxed. Even though the needle stung a little bit I was completely distracted with easy conversation to keep my mind off of what was going on. They were incredibly reassuring and informative and I love going to see them! Thank you Donna and Megan for a quick and easy visit! :)

Don Wood

Great experience from the time I arrived for the appointment til I was finished. Donna Brigham is the most professional specailist I've seen in quite some time. She is very good at explaining everything in layman's terms. Her bedside manner puts you at ease and makes you very comfortable with the procedures she is doing.

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