Psoriasis Treatment Advances: What’s New in Dermatology?

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It causes patches of thick, scaly skin that may itch, burn, or crack — often appearing on the scalp, elbows, knees, or lower back. While psoriasis has no cure, advances in dermatology have transformed how this condition is managed, helping patients achieve long-term relief and clearer skin.

From innovative medications to targeted light therapies, modern psoriasis treatments are more effective and personalized than ever before. Here’s a closer look at what’s new in dermatology and how these treatments are improving quality of life for people with psoriasis.

Understanding Psoriasis

Psoriasis occurs when the immune system triggers an overproduction of skin cells. Instead of shedding normally, these cells accumulate on the surface, creating raised, inflamed plaques.

Common types include:

• Plaque psoriasis — The most common form, marked by red, scaly patches with silvery buildup.
• Guttate psoriasis — Small, drop-shaped lesions often triggered by infection.
• Inverse psoriasis — Smooth, shiny patches in skin folds (like underarms or groin).
• Pustular psoriasis — White pustules surrounded by redness, usually on hands or feet.
• Erythrodermic psoriasis — A rare, severe form involving widespread redness and peeling.

While genetics play a key role, flare-ups are often triggered by stress, infections, medications, cold weather, or skin injury.

Traditional Psoriasis Treatments

Before recent advances, psoriasis was primarily managed through topical and systemic therapies designed to reduce inflammation and slow skin cell turnover.

Common traditional options include:

• Topical corticosteroids — Help reduce redness, itching, and swelling.
• Vitamin D analogs — Normalize skin cell growth and reduce plaque formation.
• Coal tar or salicylic acid — Help soften and remove scales.
• Phototherapy (light therapy) — Uses controlled exposure to UVB light to slow rapid skin cell growth.
• Systemic medications — Such as methotrexate, cyclosporine, or acitretin for moderate to severe cases.

While effective for some, these treatments can have limitations — including side effects, diminishing results over time, or the need for frequent monitoring.

Modern Advances in Psoriasis Treatment

In the last decade, dermatology has seen significant progress in understanding the immune pathways behind psoriasis. These discoveries have led to new biologic and targeted therapies that deliver stronger, longer-lasting results with fewer side effects.

1. Biologic Therapies

Biologics are prescription medications that target specific parts of the immune system responsible for psoriasis inflammation — unlike traditional drugs that affect the entire immune system.

Common biologics include:

• TNF-alpha inhibitors — Such as adalimumab and etanercept, which block tumor necrosis factor, a key inflammatory protein.
• IL-17 inhibitors — Like secukinumab and ixekizumab, which block interleukin-17, reducing plaque formation and inflammation.
• IL-23 inhibitors — Including guselkumab and risankizumab, targeting interleukin-23 to prevent immune overreaction.

These biologics are typically administered by injection and can lead to significant clearance — sometimes 90% or more reduction in visible plaques.

2. Oral Targeted Therapies (Small Molecules)

New oral medications offer another convenient and effective option for moderate to severe psoriasis.

Examples include:

• Apremilast (Otezla) — A phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) inhibitor that helps regulate inflammation without suppressing the immune system.
• Deucravacitinib (Sotyktu) — A tyrosine kinase 2 (TYK2) inhibitor, the newest FDA-approved oral medication for plaque psoriasis. It works by selectively blocking key inflammatory pathways with fewer systemic side effects.

These oral therapies are ideal for patients who prefer pills over injections and may be used alone or alongside topical treatments.

3. Improved Light Therapy Techniques

Modern phototherapy has evolved with precision technology that delivers narrowband UVB light directly to affected skin, minimizing damage to healthy tissue.

Advancements like excimer laser therapy allow dermatologists to target small, stubborn plaques with concentrated UV light. These treatments are fast, effective, and safe for long-term use when managed by a professional.

4. Combination Therapies for Better Results

Dermatologists increasingly combine treatments for optimal outcomes — such as pairing biologics with light therapy or topical agents. This customized approach enhances results, reduces flare-ups, and helps patients maintain clearer skin for longer periods.

Combination therapy also allows for lower doses of individual medications, minimizing potential side effects.

Lifestyle and Self-Care Innovations

Modern psoriasis management isn’t just about prescriptions — it also includes daily habits that support skin health.

Today’s dermatologists emphasize:

• Stress reduction — Mindfulness, therapy, and exercise help prevent stress-related flare-ups.
• Moisturizing routines — Using fragrance-free creams and ointments to keep skin hydrated.
• Dietary support — Anti-inflammatory diets rich in omega-3s, antioxidants, and whole foods may complement medical treatment.
• Smoking cessation — Smoking is a known trigger and can worsen psoriasis severity.
• Regular monitoring — Follow-up appointments ensure treatment plans remain safe and effective over time.

Integrating these habits can significantly improve comfort and reduce the frequency of flares.

The Future of Psoriasis Treatment

Research continues to uncover new pathways involved in psoriasis, paving the way for next-generation therapies that are even more targeted.

Emerging trends include:

• Topical biologics — Early-stage development of topical formulations that deliver biologic effects without injections.
• Personalized medicine — Genetic and biomarker testing to tailor treatment plans to individual immune profiles.
• Longer-lasting biologics — Extended-interval injections that maintain results with fewer doses per year.

These advancements promise an even brighter future for psoriasis care — with better control, fewer side effects, and improved quality of life.

Achieving Clearer Skin with Modern Psoriasis Care

Psoriasis management has come a long way from traditional creams and light boxes. Today, patients have more options than ever — from advanced biologics and oral therapies to targeted phototherapy and holistic care. With expert guidance, most people can achieve clear or nearly clear skin and long-term relief.

At Pensacola Dermatology, our board-certified dermatologists specialize in the latest psoriasis treatments, offering personalized plans that combine medical innovation with compassionate care. Whether you’ve tried previous therapies or are exploring new options, our team can help you find a solution that fits your lifestyle and goals.

Request your appointment today to learn more about the latest psoriasis treatments and take the first step toward smoother, healthier skin.