According to the National Psoriasis Foundation (NPF), medication applied topically to the skin or scalp is the first line of defense when treating psoriasis.

Only two actives approved by FDA for psoriasis treatment are available over-the-counter: Salicylic Acid and Coal Tar

How do they work?

As a psoriasis treatment, salicylic acid acts as a scale lifter, helping to soften and remove psoriasis scales, and allowing other topical medication to better penetrate affected skin.

Coal tar is known to help slow the over-growth of skin cells occurring in psoriasis, and helps reduce the inflammation, itching and scaling of psoriasis.

Doctors recommend combining salicylic acid use with other treatments, including coal tar, to enhance psoriasis treatment effectiveness.