Integrative Treatment for Psoriasis
Physician-led dermatology care for patients with chronic inflammatory psoriasis and recurrent skin flares.
This page is designed for individuals seeking a deeper understanding of the immune and biologic factors contributing to psoriasis and a comprehensive approach to long-term skin stability.
What Is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a chronic immune-mediated skin condition characterized by red, inflamed patches of skin covered with silvery scale. It occurs when immune signals accelerate the growth cycle of skin cells, causing new cells to accumulate on the skin surface more rapidly than normal.
This rapid skin turnover leads to the formation of thick plaques that may appear on the scalp, elbows, knees, lower back, or other areas of the body. Many individuals also experience itching, burning, or skin sensitivity.
Psoriasis is considered a systemic inflammatory condition and may also be associated with other health conditions such as psoriatic arthritis, metabolic syndrome, and cardiovascular disease.
Why Psoriasis Develops
Psoriasis results from a complex interaction between immune signaling, genetics, and environmental triggers.
Immune system dysregulation
Immune cells release inflammatory signals that accelerate skin cell growth.
Rapid skin cell turnover
New skin cells reach the surface in days rather than weeks, leading to plaque formation.
Genetic susceptibility
Individuals with psoriasis often have a genetic predisposition to immune-mediated inflammation.
Systemic inflammation
Inflammatory pathways may affect not only the skin but also other body systems.
These processes contribute to the characteristic plaques and chronic inflammatory nature of psoriasis.
Common Triggers for Psoriasis Flares
Psoriasis symptoms often worsen when certain triggers activate inflammatory pathways.
Common triggers include:
psychological stress
skin injury or irritation
smoking
cold or dry weather
infections such as strep throat
certain medications
alcohol use
metabolic inflammation
Identifying individual triggers can help reduce flare frequency and improve long-term disease control.
Our Approach to Psoriasis Treatment
Dr. Larivee provides physician-led care for patients with chronic psoriasis. Rather than focusing solely on suppressing visible plaques, care focuses on identifying the biological factors contributing to systemic inflammation and immune activation.
Treatment plans are individualized based on psoriasis severity, prior treatment history, and overall health. Approaches may include:
01
Clinical evaluation
Review of psoriasis history, triggers, and previous therapies.
02
Skin barrier and topical care
Strategies that support skin health and reduce irritation.
03
Inflammatory pathway support
Addressing immune and metabolic factors contributing to inflammation.
04
Targeted therapies
Use of dermatologic medications or integrative therapies when appropriate.
05
Long-term disease stability
Focus on reducing flare cycles and supporting durable skin control.
Who This Care Is Designed For
This care model may be appropriate for patients who:
have chronic plaque psoriasis with persistent or recurring symptoms
experience recurrent flares that disrupt overall skin stability
have not achieved consistent control with conventional episodic care
want a physician-guided and integrative dermatology approach
are seeking a deeper understanding of the factors driving their condition
This practice focuses on chronic inflammatory skin disease and may not be appropriate for urgent dermatologic care.
