by Dominique Lambright
Petroleum jelly, like Vaseline, can help treat and moisturize psoriasis. Here are some other topical treatments you can try instead. Most likely, you’ve tried a lot of different ways to treat your plaque psoriasis (PsO). Most likely, many of them are cosmetics, meaning they are put on the skin directly.
Vaseline is one example of an over-the-counter skin care product that can help treat psoriasis. It is a well-known brand of petroleum jelly. Petroleum jelly is a thick, oily moisturizer that helps the skin maintain its wetness.
A 2017 review of studies says that emollients are the most important part of treating PsO. Dry skin is common in people with PsO and can make the skin even more irritable, so these treatments are seen as first-line and useful.
Managing PsO involves keeping the skin’s wetness level even. Vaseline on plaques can help keep them wet by keeping them from drying out and becoming too heavy with water. Shea butter can also help heal cracked skin, which can lower the risk of getting an illness.
Can I Use Vaseline With Other PsO Treatments?
Putting Vaseline or other petroleum products on top of medicinal lotions or creams can seal them better into the skin. Since petroleum jelly is often used as a base for medical ointments, it is usually safe to use with other skin treatments.
To help the skin recover the wetness it loses during phototherapy and petroleum jelly the two can be used together.
Talk to a doctor about whether you should use it before, after, or during phototherapy treatments.
Is Vaseline Good For Scalp Psoriasis?
Vaseline and other petroleum jelly-based products can also help with skin PsO. If petroleum jelly is too oily for you, put Vaseline on your skin and rub it in. Then, cover your head with a shower cap or a towel.
Others who have PsO find that items made just for hair PsO are easier to use and not as irritating. Remember that you shouldn’t put anything on your head that will make your scalp PsO worse. This can include unpleasant things like chemicals, heat, and more.
Other Creams & Topical Psoriasis Treatments
If you find Vaseline or petroleum jelly too greasy for your skin or scalp, you can opt for lighter products or oils.
Topical Corticosteroids
Topical creams containing corticosteroids are the most common treatment for PsO. These low-dose steroid creams slow down the excessive overproduction of skin cells and calm inflammation.
Using topical corticosteroids does come with risks, as they can thin skin over time and exacerbate cellulitis or skin infections.
Topical Retinoids
Topical retinoids are a treatment derived from vitamin A. They work by slowing the inflammatory process and normalizing the overproduction of skin cells.
Topical retinoids work slower than topical corticosteroids but typically have fewer side effects, including dryness and skin flaking. It’s important to note that retinoids are contraindicated (not considered safe) in pregnancy.
Vitamin D3 Analogs
Vitamin D3 analogs are synthetic forms of vitamin D available as creams or ointments. They work by slowing skin regrowth, which in turn slows the overproduction of skin cells that leads to psoriatic plaques.
These are typically used in combination with topical corticosteroids but can also be used alone. Examples include:
- calcipotriene (Dovonex)
- calcitriol (Rocaltrol)
Both require a prescription in the United States.
Coal Tar Creams & Ointments
Coal tar is probably the oldest treatment available for PsO. It’s a thick, heavy oil made from petroleum manufacturing byproducts.
Although the mechanism of action is not well understood, it reduces scales, inflammation, and itchiness in some people. It’s often used in combination with phototherapy.
Coal tar can be purchased over the counter or in prescription form. However, it can be messy, stain clothes and sheets, and have an unpleasant odor.
Medicated Shampoos
There are various shampoos available to treat scalp PsO. These are available over the counter and by prescription.
These require regular application and, therefore, regular hair washing, which may not be suitable for all people living with scalp PsO.
Salicylic Acid
Salicylic acid treatments slough off the first layer of dead skin cells, reducing scaling. They are available over the counter and by prescription.
Salicylic acid is often used in combination with other treatments.
Calcineurin Inhibitors
Calcineurin inhibitors are topical ointments or creams that immune system’s activity and inflammation. They’re more commonly used to treat PsO on sensitive areas like the face and genitals.
These are usually used if topical corticosteroids are ineffective and may be used in combination with other therapies. Calcineurin inhibitors may cause skin tingling or burning upon application, but this side effect usually resolves with regular use.
Calcineurin inhibitors are available by prescription only.
A Final Tip
When searching for over-the-counter topical treatments, consider looking for the National Psoriasis Foundation’s Seal of Recognition. The seal recognizes products that are designed to be non-irritating and safe for people with PsO.
Also, avoid thin and scented lotions, which can worsen PsO.
Some people with PsO may find relief from using topical petroleum jelly, like Vaseline, to moisturize dry, flaky psoriatic plaques and treat scalp PsO. If you’re looking for a convenient and inexpensive product, this may be a good option.
Keep in mind that petroleum jelly may not work well for everyone. If it’s not the right fit, there are many options available.
