Nail Psoriasis: Treatment and Prevention

Nail psoriasis can leave your nails looking pitted and unhealthy. Your nails may turn white, yellow, or brown, develop ridges or grooves, thicken, or separate from the nail bed. Chalky material can build up under the nail, leading to pain. Doctors have lots of ways to treat nail changes. 

Treatments for skin psoriasis can also work for nail psoriasis. These treatments may take time to work because your nails grow slowly. Combinations of treatments are often more effective. 

Biologics work throughout your body and target specific parts of your immune system. They are given by an injection under the skin, pill, or through an IV. 
 

Ultraviolet light treatments, often done in a doctor's office, can help treat nail psoriasis. This method is also used for skin psoriasis. 

Medicine you apply directly to your nails includes retinoid creams, vitamin D, and corticosteroid creams, ointments, and injections. You'll need to use these treatments daily. For flare-ups, doctors might suggest combining corticosteroids with vitamin D. 

You can improve the appearance of your nails by using gentle nail scraping, filing, polishing, or buffing. Don't trim your cuticles or pick at your nails. That can cause a flare. 
 

Avoid injuries to hands and feet, wash gently with moisturizing soap, apply petroleum jelly to plaques, and wear supportive shoes. Sunlight exposure may also help. 

Trim nails short, keep edges smooth, wear gloves while working, and moisturize nails daily. Good nail care can help prevent nail psoriasis.