Approaches to managing psoriasis will depend on the nature of the condition and its location on the body. NICE endorses the guidance on topical treatments issued by the Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis Alliance (PAPAA) and the British Association of Dermatologists. Among the OTC options are:32,33,34

·       emollients

·       emollients containing salicylic acid in low concentration

·       coal tar in creams, ointments, bath oils and shampoos.

Tar preparations help reduce scaling and slow down skin overgrowth, and have anti-inflammatory properties. While the most effective strength is between1-10 per cent (typically prescribed on an out-patient basis), not many patients can tolerate the mess and the smell. Proprietary products with lower concentrations or cleaner extracts are usually preferred, although they take longer to be effective.34,35

Salicylic acid in a coconut oil can be used as a descaling preparation to tackle thicker scaly areas on the scalp before using other topical treatments.34