Prescription-Strength Treatments for psoriasis (see note for special instructions for psoriasis treatment)

Tar Shampoo	Tar Shampoo with citrus fragrance	3% salicylic acid (see note)
$59.95 for 6-pack + $12.00 for shipping	$59.95 + for 6-pack $12.00	$59.95 + for 6-pack $12.00

Psiaosis: Psoriasis is similar to seborrhea and eczema in its symptoms. According to the American Academy of Dermatologists, psoriasis is a "persistent skin disease that got its name from the Greek word for "itch." The skin becomes itchy, inflamed and produces silvery scales which are thickened and occur most often in the scalp, knees and lower back. The scales are also common in areas of the body where there are folds of skin. Psoriasis is not contagious. Approximately 2% of the population is affected with psoriasis. Approximately 150,000 new cases of psoriasis occur each year. Although the cause of psoriasis is unknown, the same result occurs as dandruff and seborrhea, which is the rapid shedding of skin. The skin becomes inflamed for some reason (perhaps due to a white blood cell abnormality), and the skin begins to become inflamed. Because of the inflammation, the shedding begins. In fact the shedding of skin is approximately every 3-4 days. Psoriasis can also be activated by cuts, abrasions, sun burn and scratches.

Psoriasis flare-ups often occur in the winter when the skin is dry and flaky and as a result of the lack of UV sunlight. Each flare-up differs in severity, duration, location, and in the shape and pattern of the scales. The most common form begins with little red bumps. Gradually these grow larger and scales form. While the top scales flake off easily and often, scales below the surface stick together. When they are removed, the tender, exposed skin bleeds. These small red areas then grow, sometimes becoming quite large. Elbows, knees, groin and genitals, arms, legs, palms and soles, scalp and face, body folds and nails are the areas most commonly affected by psoriasis. It will often appear in the same place on both sides of the body. Nails with psoriasis have tiny pits on them. Nails may loosen, thicken or crumble and are difficult to treat.

Psoriasis treatment: Psoriasis is treated effectively with several medications including our 2.9% coal tar shampoo, salicylic acid. We recommend starting with our tar shampoo. Most patients will see results within the first few days of shampooing. We also recommend that you shampoo every day until you see your flakes reduce in size and number. Your scalp should become softer as well. 80% of patients treated with our 2.9% tar shampoo will see excellent results. It is important to note that ALL SHAMPOO TREATMENTS (including prescription Nazoral) may become ineffective after a year or so of use. In this event, we recommend switching to our 3% salicylic acid formula (DHS Sal shampoo). Unlike other manufactures, we offer two very effective formulas for continuous, effective psoriasis therapy. If and when the DHS SAL becomes ineffective, switch back to the tar and you should see good results again. It is important to keep the bacteria in "confusion" and not let them get accustom to one treatment.

In addition to medications such as a prescription of 2% ketoconazole, which can be found in shampoos such as Nazoral. J&J has recently introduced a 1% non-prescription formula of Nazoral as well. Our 2.9% tar formula and salicylic acid will work as well as the Nazoral. Nazoral costs about $30.00 per 8 oz bottle for the 2% solution and approximately $10.00 for the 1% solution. Our tar and salicylic acid formula's are as effective, yet 1/3rd - 1/2 the cost of competitive brands. Assume you use one bottle per month of ours or a competitor's brand. If you utilize our products, you will spend < $70.00 per year, vs. $120 - $300 per year.