Psoriasis on the face
In diagnosing facial psoriasis, your doctor will examine your lesions and take a personal and family history. Facial psoriasis most often affects the eyebrows, the skin between the nose and upper lip, the upper forehead and the hairline. A biopsy may be needed to distinguish psoriasis from other skin diseases.
Facial psoriasis may respond initially to non-irritating moisturizers and petroleum jelly. Occasional use of mild topical steroids, also called corticosteroids, may be effective. Other treatments include Dovonex (a vitamin D3 derivative, also known by its generic name calcipotriene), Tazorac (a topical vitamin A derivative, also known by its generic name tazarotene), keratolytic products (scale removers) and ultraviolet light. Dovonex and Tazorac can be irritating, so you should work with your doctor to find a way to address this concern.
In December 2000, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved a drug called Protopic (also known by its generic name tacrolimus) for eczema. In December 2001, Elidel (also known by its generic name pimecrolimus) was also approved by the FDA for the treatment of eczema. Many dermatologists have also found that both drugs work well for treating psoriasis on the face or other sensitive areas.
Medication used to treat facial psoriasis should be applied carefully and sparingly; creams and ointments can irritate the eyes, and large amounts offer no additional benefits. Because facial skin is delicate, prolonged use of steroids may cause it to become thin, shiny and/or prone to enlarged capillaries (spider veins). Treatment with steroids may be safe if a careful treatment schedule is followed.
Updated October 2005
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