Understanding Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a disorder in which skin grows and replaces itself too rapidly, causing a buildup of red, thickened areas with silvery scales. These scales flake off easily and often, causing the red areas to grow larger still — and the cycle continues. See photos of what psoriasis looks like on the skin. The National Institutes of Health estimates that between 5 and 7.5 million people in the U.S. have psoriasis.

Psoriasis usually develops in adults on the scalp, elbows, knees and lower back — and often appears in the same place on both sides of the body. It may affect quality of life since it can be a painful, itchy and sometimes unattractive skin condition in its moderate to severe forms.

Some people find that infections, stress, dry weather, and some medications (such as lithium or beta blockers) can make their psoriasis worse.

Psoriasis can often be effectively controlled with topical steroid treatment such as that found in Clobex®. Some patients find that light therapy, also called phototherapy, or medicines taken by mouth or injection (systemic treatment) may help improve their symptoms. For helpful tips on reducing symptoms of psoriasis, visit the skin care section of this site.

Eczema

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, describes a variety of common skin diseases. It is an itchy, red, flaking, weeping, oozing skin condition. Other names for eczema include: skin contact allergy, seborrheic eczema, dry skin eczema (winter itch) or poison ivy. Dermatologists may prescribe topical steroids for eczema. See photos of what eczema looks like

Other Skin Conditions

Psoriasis and eczema are not the only dermatological conditions that are treated with topical corticosteroids. The term steroid-responsive dermatoses describes a group of skin disorders that improve with treatment of topical steroids.

If you think you may have psoriasis or another skin condition that requires a doctor’s help, use our Self-Assess Your Skin Tool on the Skin Resource Center to learn more prior to your dermatology appointment. To locate a dermatologist in your area, use DermFinder.

Find a Dermatologist     Zip Code (first three digits only):  
 

Clobetasol propionate has been shown to suppress the HPA axis at the lowest doses tested. In controlled clinical trials, the following adverse reactions have been reported: burning, pruritus, dryness, pain, hyperpigmentation around resolving plaque, irritation and atrophy.

Clobex® (clobetasol propionate) Spray, 0.05% is not recommended for use on anyone younger than 18 years of age. Treatment should be limited to 4 consecutive weeks. The total dosage should not exceed 50 g (59 mL or 2 fl oz) per week. Patients should use Clobex® (clobetasol propionate) Spray, 0.05%, only for the minimum period necessary to achieve desired results. Clobex® (clobetasol propionate) Spray, 0.05% should not be used on the face, groin, or axillae.

See full prescribing information for Clobex® Spray, Clobex® Lotion and Clobex® Shampoo.