- Most people who have plaque psoriasis are more likely to develop nail psoriasis as well
- Regular checking of their nails for signs such as nail dents, lifting, discoloration, thickening and crumbling is necessary for early treatment
- Right treatment and at-home care can help reduce pain and make your nails look normal
The good news, say dermatologists, is that the right treatment and at-home care can help reduce pain, allow you to perform your daily activities and make your nails look normal.
“There are many treatment options available for nail psoriasis, including topical and oral medications, corticosteroid injections, and biologics,” says board-certified dermatologist Richard K. Scher, MD, FAAD. “However, nail psoriasis can be challenging to treat. To get results, it’s important to treat your nails as directed and for as long as directed by your dermatologist. The right nail care at home can also help you get the best results from treatment.”
To help improve nail psoriasis at home, Dr. Scher recommends the following tips:
1. Keep your nails trimmed short: This helps prevent your nails from lifting off of your fingers and toes. It can also help prevent buildup under the nails — a common issue associated with nail psoriasis. If you have a hangnail, clip it off immediately.
3. Moisturize your hands and nails: Apply moisturizer immediately after bathing or washing your hands to lock in moisture. Use ointments or creams you squeeze out of a tube, as these are more effective than products you pump out of a bottle.
5. Consider nail polish: If you are concerned about the appearance of your nails, consider gently buffing them to help smooth the surface or wearing nail polish, which is a great way to hide nail issues, such as dents or discoloration. Artificial nails should be avoided, as they may contribute to your nails separating and lifting from your fingers.
“Nail psoriasis can be stubborn, however, the combination of treatment and the recommended at-home care can help clear nail psoriasis and reduce pain,” says Dr. Scher. “Nail psoriasis may also be a sign of psoriatic arthritis, a type of arthritis that can occur in psoriasis patients. If you notice any changes to your fingernails and toenails or nail changes coupled with swollen, stiff and sometimes painful joints when waking up, see a board-certified dermatologist, as the sooner your issue is addressed, the better your results.”
Source-Newswise