Psoriasis
Relief for Red, Scaly Skin Starts Here
Psoriasis is a common, chronic, and non-contagious skin condition that causes red, scaly, and thickened patches of skin. These well-defined areas can vary in size and appear on almost any part of the body—including the scalp, elbows, knees, lower back, and even the nails. The face is less commonly affected, but symptoms can still be widespread or persistent.
In some patients, psoriasis is also linked to psoriatic arthritis, which causes joint pain, stiffness, and swelling.
At Total Dermatology, we specialize in diagnosing and treating all forms of psoriasis, from mild flare-ups to complex or treatment-resistant cases. Our expert providers work closely with you to build a personalized treatment plan that helps control symptoms and improve your quality of life.
Take control of your psoriasis—start treatment today.
Causes
Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin condition, though the exact cause is still unknown. What we do know is that the immune system—particularly T-lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell—plays a major role. In psoriasis, certain parts of the immune system become overactive, leading to inflammation that speeds up the skin cell life cycle. This causes skin cells to build up too quickly on the surface, resulting in the thick, red, scaly patches characteristic of psoriasis.
One subtype, called guttate psoriasis, can be triggered by strep throat, often leading to a patient’s first noticeable flare-up—especially in children and young adults.
Psoriasis and Joint Involvement: Psoriatic Arthritis
Up to 30% of people with psoriasis will develop psoriatic arthritis, an inflammatory joint condition. In most cases, skin symptoms appear about 10 years before joint pain begins. Common signs include:
- Morning stiffness
- Joint pain after periods of rest
- Swelling in the fingers, wrists, ankles, or spine
Because of the complexity of psoriatic arthritis, many patients are co-managed by our team in partnership with experienced rheumatologists to ensure complete and coordinated care.
Psoriasis and Your Overall Health
Research shows that psoriasis isn’t just a skin condition—it may also be linked to other systemic health issues, including:
- Heart disease
- Obesity
- Type 2 diabetes
- Lymphoma
Because of these potential associations, we encourage all psoriasis patients to maintain regular follow-up with their primary care provider and focus on a healthy, balanced lifestyle to support overall well-being.
If you’re living with psoriasis or experiencing joint pain, schedule a consultation with us. We’re here to help you manage your condition with confidence and care.
Treatments
Psoriasis Treatment Options at Total Dermatology
At Total Dermatology in Birmingham, we offer the full spectrum of psoriasis treatments, from topical creams and light therapy to advanced systemic medications and clinical trials. Our team customizes every treatment plan based on your specific symptoms, severity, lifestyle, and overall health—ensuring you receive the safest and most effective care possible.
Systemic & Topical Psoriasis Therapies
We utilize a wide range of topical and systemic therapies to help manage psoriasis symptoms and reduce flare-ups.
Systemic Medications
These treatments work from within to calm the immune system and reduce inflammation. Options include:
- Biologic therapy
- SOTYKTU
- Otezla
- Methotrexate
- Cyclosporine
- Acitretin
All systemic treatments are closely monitored with regular bloodwork to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Topical Psoriasis Treatments
We also prescribe a variety of topical medications to target localized symptoms:
- Topical steroids
- Topical vitamin D (alone or in combination with steroids)
- Immune modulators such as Vtama, Zoryve, Elidel, and Protopic
- Over-the-counter tar preparations
- Custom compounded therapies
Biologic Therapy for Psoriasis
Biologics are currently the most widely used systemic treatments for moderate to severe psoriasis. These injectable medications target specific parts of the immune system involved in psoriasis and have transformed how we manage this condition.
At Total Dermatology, we’ve been using biologics since their FDA approval in 2003 and have even participated in pivotal clinical trials for many of these treatments. We currently treat the largest number of biologic patients in Alabama. Our offerings include:
- Anti-TNF medications: Enbrel, Humira, Remicade, Cimzia
- Anti-IL-12/23: Stelara
- Anti-IL-17: Cosentyx, Taltz, Siliq, Bimzelx
- Anti-IL-23: Tremfya, Skyrizi, Ilumya
Phototherapy
Phototherapy is a time-tested, non-invasive psoriasis treatment using controlled light exposure. Our fully equipped phototherapy center offers:
- Narrowband UVB and UVA full-body treatment units
- A specialized hand/foot unit for treating stubborn palmoplantar psoriasis and eczema
Phototherapy is highly effective, safe, and ideal for patients looking for non-drug treatment options.
Enhanced Aurora
This revolutionary phototherapy device features an advanced narrowband UVB (BV-UVB) diode array, designed to be both powerful and precise, ensuring the emission of only the most effective wavelengths.
- Quick sessions (5–10 minutes)
- 2 treatments per week for ~6 weeks
- Months of remission following treatment
This therapy is especially effective for localized psoriasis, vitiligo, and atopic dermatitis.
Psoriasis Clinical Trials
As a regional referral center for psoriasis in Alabama and surrounding states, Total Dermatology frequently participates in clinical research trials for new and emerging therapies. We are active in Phase II, III, and IV trials, giving eligible patients access to cutting-edge psoriasis treatments before they become widely available.
Personalized Psoriasis Care
We’ll work with you to find the most appropriate, effective, and safe treatment plan for your skin and your lifestyle. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or have struggled with psoriasis for years, Total Dermatology offers the experience, tools, and compassion to help you manage your condition with confidence.
Looking for expert psoriasis care in Birmingham? Schedule a consultation with our team today—or ask about joining one of our ongoing clinical trials.