Psoriasis Treatment In Irvine, CA

What is psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a chronic immune-mediated skin condition that causes the skin to produce new cells much faster than normal. Instead of developing over weeks, skin cells form within days and build up on the surface, creating thick, inflamed patches called plaques.

At OC MedDerm Dermatology in Irvine, CA, psoriasis is diagnosed and treated by Dr. Parvin Shafa, an experienced dermatologist specializing in medical and immune-based skin conditions.

Who gets psoriasis?

Psoriasis is often genetic. Many patients have one or more family members with psoriasis, even if their own symptoms appear later in life.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, over 7.5 million people in the U.S. are affected by psoriasis. Patients of all ages, skin tones, and backgrounds can develop this condition.

Is psoriasis contagious?

No. Psoriasis is not contagious.
You cannot catch psoriasis through touch, close contact, or shared objects. The condition only develops in people who carry the genetic predisposition.

What causes psoriasis?

A person’s genetics and immune system are understood to be important factors of what causes psoriasis. Although, not everyone who has inherited the genes for psoriasis will have active flare-ups unless he or she is exposed to a “trigger.”

priasis can begin, be triggered for the first time following these types of events:

• Sunburn, scratch, cut, or other skin injuries
• Strep throat infection
• Exposure to dry, cold weather
• After taking particular medications like lithium
• After undergoing malaria prevention treatment

Types of Psoriasis We Treat in Irvine, CA

Plaque psoriasis

• The most common type of psoriasis – makes up around 80% of all psoriasis cases
• Causes thickened, white patches on the skin
• Usually covered with gray or white scaling

Guttate psoriasis

• Small red spots that usually appear on the abdomen, back, arms, and legs
• Usually develop after an illness, such as strep throat
• May resolve after a few weeks or months even without treatment

Pustular psoriasis

• Characterized by pus-filled bumps that usually develop on the feet or hands
• May experience pain and soreness at the site of the bumps

Inverse (Flexural) psoriasis

• Develops at the sites where skin meets (i.e. the armpit, buttocks, groin, and genitals;. women may also develop patches under the breasts
• Patches of red skin that appears to be raw and smooth

Erythrodermic psoriasis

• Skin appears to have been burned
• All or most of the body is extremely red
• Unable to maintain normal body temperature – Can feel very hot or very cold

How Is Psoriasis Diagnosed?

Psoriasis is usually diagnosed clinically by Dr. Shafa during an in-office skin examination. She will review:

• Your symptoms
• Family history
• Possible triggers (stress, illness, medications)

If needed, a small skin biopsy may be performed to confirm the diagnosis under microscopic evaluation.

Psoriasis Treatment Options in Irvine, CA

After diagnosis, Dr. Shafa will create a customized treatment plan based on psoriasis type, severity, skin tone, and lifestyle.

Common Treatment Options Include:

• Topical treatments (medicated creams and ointments)
• Phototherapy (light therapy)
• Oral medications
• Biologic therapies for moderate to severe or persistent psoriasis

Most patients achieve excellent control of symptoms with proper dermatologic care.

Why Choose OC MedDerm for Psoriasis Treatment?

• Dermatologist with 20+ years of experience
• Safe treatments for all skin tones
• Personalized, immune-focused care
• Conservative approach with advanced options when needed
• Trusted psoriasis care for Irvine & Orange County patients

Schedule Psoriasis Treatment in Irvine, CA

If you notice red, scaly patches, persistent itching, or recurring flare-ups, early treatment is essential.

OC MedDerm Dermatology – Irvine, Orange County, CA
Call (949) 551-1113 for same-day appointments or schedule your consultation today.
 

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