What Is Psoriasis?
At Sandhu Dermatology & Med Spa, we assist men and women in West Palmdale, Ridgecrest, and Tehachapi, CA with the treatment and continuing management of psoriasis. Psoriasis is a persistent skin condition that occurs when skin cells grow too rapidly. Psoriasis causes flaky, red, light-colored patches of skin, which may become inflamed, itchy, scaly, and can even scab. Regular skin cells turn over and flake about once a month or every four weeks. Individuals with psoriasis possess skin cells that build up quickly and form plaques. They can vary in diameter and position within your system, forming on the elbows, hands, knees, head, and lower spine.
There are many different forms of psoriasis. One kind, plaque psoriasis, is the most commonly experienced. While most cases of psoriasis are believed to be mild, many are challenging to deal with and can require several therapies during an individual's life. It is essential to note that psoriasis isn't contagious and can not be spread from person to person. Once diagnosed, it's a matter of addressing the symptoms to decrease flare-ups.
How Is Psoriasis Treated?
Though there is no cure for psoriasis, you'll find various treatment options available to manage the condition, depending on the severity and type of psoriasis you are experiencing. Mild cases may be treated with prescription lotions, creams, and ointments. When your head is affected, oils, shampoos, and sprays may be used. Systemic medications are prescription drugs that are taken by mouth or injected and work throughout the body. They are commonly used for individuals with moderate to severe psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. In addition, laser therapy advancements have greatly improved many psoriasis cases. Using phototherapy to expose an individual's skin to a specialized ultraviolet light helps reduce symptoms.
What Are the Symptoms of Psoriasis?
Plaques can arise in the same location on either side of your body, like on both knees and/or both elbows. Your scalp may experience anything from minor scaling to regions of thick, crusted plaques. Small areas of skin irritation can happen when scales are pulled up or scraped off. This is called Auspitz's sign. Widely recognized symptoms associated with psoriasis are:
- Raised, bright, reddish patches of skin
- Itching
- Painful patches that can crack and bleed
- Scaly plaques on the scalp and skin
- Small areas of bleeding if the affected skin has been scratched
Sandhu Dermatology & Med Spa Reviews
I am so happy that I went to Shandu Dermatology!Dr Harika Shandu is an excellent surgeon with outstanding attention to detail. Her stitchwork is so beautiful that it reminds me of fine embroidery on a silk cloth. She's that good!I had what looked like two pimples on my back, but they were just the tip of the iceberg. I heard a "snip snip" , it felt like a haircut, and when she was done, a non-cancerous cyst - the size of my thumb! - was removed from my back and placed in a medical jar. I was shocked! I had no idea!The second cyst was the size of a marble, and a third cyst, located on my left forearm, which I thought was a weird looking mole, but no, no, no - it was a cyst the size of a 1-inch ball bearing! My jaw dropped in disbelief.Because Dr Hakita Shandu did such an excellent job sewing me up, my wounds have closed completely now and there is no scarring. There is still some discoloration around the wounds, but I plan on buying the Post Care Silicone Gel when I go back next week for a follow-up appointment.I’m also seriously considering the monthly subscription for a hydro facial. It sounds wonderful and very relaxing.Dr Hakita Shandu is a very nice person with a gentle touch. I would strongly recommend Shandu Dermatology for any skin care needs. The entire staff is very nice, and they made me feel very much at ease. It’s like the tv show Cheers! - “where everyone knows your name”Thank you very much, Dr Hakita Shandu! You're the best!Morris Lee FeasterPalmdale, CA
Everyone is nice and welcoming and understanding. Michelle is so awesome, I been going to her for years. Honestly they are all amazing people
Doctors and Staff and Products are the Best in the Valley! Been a Patient well over 25yrs ! Highly recommend Dr Sandhu Dermatologist
The girls are terrified, very professional
I had my procedure today with Ashley and Dr. Sandhu, I felt NOTHING. Not even the syringe that Ashley used to numb me before the full removal of my mole. Ashley made sure I was comfortable and was able to talk me through the prep process. Dr. Sandhu was so quick with the procedure I couldn’t even think to feel anything. I am still going to get a biopsy and 6 week follow up. But I am highly satisfied with the progress. I did peak under my bandaid and I’m glad to no longer see an abnormal mole! Thank you Dr. Sandhu and team!_______________________________________________I had my first mole check-up with Dr. Sandhu and Amanda, and I was truly impressed by the entire experience. From start to finish, the appointment process was smooth and easy. Both Dr. Sandhu and Amanda were professional, kind, and extremely knowledgeable, which helped put me at ease right away.Unfortunately, the mole in question appeared abnormal, so I have a follow-up appointment scheduled for a shave and biopsy. While I’m definitely hoping and praying for a benign result, I feel confident knowing I’m in such capable hands.As a cash patient, I also really appreciated the clear and reasonable pricing—no surprises, just honest care. I’m very grateful for their support and would absolutely recommend them to anyone looking for attentive and thorough dermatologic care.
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What Causes Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is caused by an overactive immune system that speeds up the life cycle of skin cells. Normally, skin cells take weeks to regenerate, but in psoriasis, this process happens in just days, causing cells to build up and form scaly patches. The exact cause isn’t fully understood, but genetics and environmental factors play a significant role. Triggers like stress, infections, certain medications, or injuries to the skin can worsen the condition. It's a chronic condition, but treatments at Sandhu Dermatology & Med Spa can help manage symptoms and flare-ups.
Can you grow out of psoriasis as you get older?
Psoriasis is a chronic condition, but some people experience fewer flare-ups or milder symptoms over time. Factors like hormonal changes, reduced stress, or better immune balance can play a role. However, it doesn’t typically go away entirely. Our team can help manage symptoms and minimize flare-ups with personalized treatment strategies.
Will psoriasis come back after treatment?
Psoriasis often improves significantly with treatment, but flare-ups can return when triggers—such as stress, illness, or weather changes—resurface. Ongoing care helps maintain clearer skin and longer remission periods. Our team can adjust your treatment plan as needed to help you stay comfortable and confident.
How do I know if I have psoriasis vs. eczema?
Psoriasis and eczema can both cause red, itchy patches, but they look and feel different. Psoriasis plaques are thicker, with silvery scales, and often appear on elbows, knees, or the scalp. Eczema patches are more likely to ooze or crust and may show up in skin folds. Our team can examine your skin and identify which condition you have so we can create the right care plan.
Improve Your Psoriasis
Psoriasis can be painful and embarrassing, making it difficult for you to complete simple activities in your daily life. If this is true for you, we encourage you to call us as soon as possible. When you come for your appointment at Sandhu Dermatology & Med Spa in West Palmdale, Ridgecrest, or Tehachapi, CA, your condition will be assessed, and a custom treatment plan will be created to help manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.