Based on findings of a recent study researchers say combining a 6 percent salicylic acid gel with tacrolimus ointment might be an effective treatment option for plaque psoriasis, an inflammatory skin condition characterized by itchy, red and thickened skin .
For the study 30 adults with plaque-type psoriasis were observed for 12 weeks. Study participants randomly received 6 percent salicylic acid gel plus 0.1 percent tacrolimus ointment or 6 percent salicylic acid gel plus vehicle.Results showed at one, two and eight week intervals a greater improvement among those who used the combination 6 percent salicylic acid and 0.1 percent tacrolimus cream vs. those who used the vehicle plus salicylic acid. While tacrolimus has been especially beneficial in treating facial psoriasis where skin is relatively thin, researchers believe salicylic acid helps improve the penetration of the tacrolimus cream into the thicker skin of plaque psoriasis.
Researchers conclude saying that the combination of 0.1 percent tacrolimus ointment and 6 percent salicylic acid gel is an effective treatment for psoriasis.
