7 Best Psoriasis Treatment Products for Flare-Up Relief

Compare seven effective psoriasis products for flare-up relief, with ingredient notes and practical reviews to help you choose.

Psoriasis is a long-term autoimmune disorder that shows up as red, scaly, sometimes itchy skin patches. There’s no cure, but controlling flare-ups makes daily life easier. Many over-the-counter (OTC) options can ease inflammation, scaling, and itching. This roundup covers seven commonly recommended treatments—from targeted ointments to medicated shampoos—intended to calm and help restore skin affected by psoriasis.

1. EMUAIDMAX First Aid Ointment

EMUAIDMAX First Aid Ointment is a homeopathic topical intended for persistent skin issues, including psoriasis. People often pick it for thicker or long-standing plaques because it aims to reduce inflammation and itching, relieve pain, and soften hardened skin. Its formulation combines natural actives, ingredients that support tissue repair, skin-like lipids, and components that boost oxygen delivery to promote healing and potentially lessen future flares.

Key ingredients include Argentum metallicum (colloidal silver), listed in the Homoeopathic Pharmacopoeia of the United States, which is used for wound and infection concerns. Other common constituents in EMUAIDMAX are emu oil for moisture and anti-inflammatory effect, ceramide 3, phytosphingosine, tea tree oil, and allantoin. The ointment is formulated without steroids, parabens, or artificial preservatives, making it suitable for sensitive skin. Reviewers report meaningful relief from stinging, itching, and pain on plaques. It typically comes in a 2 oz jar, often priced around $30-$60, and averages about 4.6 out of 5 stars from customer reviews.

2. MG217 Psoriasis Medicated Multi-Symptom Cream with 3% Salicylic Acid

The MG217 Psoriasis Medicated Multi-Symptom Cream is a well-known OTC option created specifically for psoriasis. Its main active is 3% salicylic acid—the highest concentration available without a prescription. Salicylic acid acts as a keratolytic, softening and loosening thick scales so they can be removed more easily, which helps reduce flaking.

Alongside salicylic acid, this cream typically includes soothing moisturizers like aloe to calm and hydrate dry skin. Many users find it reduces itching and scaling effectively, with some preferring it over certain prescription products. It generally rates around 4 to 5 stars, comes in a 3.5 oz tube priced about $8-$15, and some people report that its texture can be noticeable and may irritate cracked skin at first.

3. CeraVe Psoriasis Skin Therapy Moisturizing Cream / Cleanser

CeraVe’s Psoriasis Skin Therapy lineup includes a moisturizing cream and a cleanser developed with dermatologists. Both contain 2% salicylic acid to gently exfoliate and target itching, scaling, redness, and irritation, and they also use lactic acid for mild exfoliation.

CeraVe products are known for including three essential ceramides (1, 3, and 6-II), cholesterol, and phytosphingosine to help rebuild and protect the skin’s barrier. Niacinamide helps calm the skin, while urea and hyaluronic acid retain moisture. The cleanser is formulated to wash psoriasis-prone skin gently, and the cream offers deeper hydration to help prevent return of symptoms. The moisturizing cream is recognized by the National Psoriasis Foundation and is often recommended for sensitive skin. An 8 oz cleanser or cream usually costs $12-$20 and commonly receives ratings above 4.5 stars.

4. Gold Bond Multi-Symptom Psoriasis Relief Cream

Gold Bond Multi-Symptom Psoriasis Relief Cream is a cost-conscious choice for managing psoriasis signs. It includes a maximum OTC concentration of 3% salicylic acid, which helps exfoliate thick, scaly areas and reduce redness and flaking.

The formula also blends heavy moisturizers and ceramides to hydrate and soothe the skin, while gluconolactone supports the skin’s barrier. Users like its non-greasy, quick-absorbing feel, though some mention a watery consistency or slight stickiness. It’s widely regarded for value and effectiveness, usually priced around $9-$13 for a 4-ounce tube and generally earns positive customer feedback.

5. Neutrogena T/Gel Therapeutic Shampoo Original Formula

Neutrogena T/Gel Therapeutic Shampoo Original Formula is a common OTC choice for scalp psoriasis. Its active ingredient, coal tar, has a long history of use for psoriasis because it can slow excess skin cell growth and reduce scaling, itching, and inflammation. Coal tar can help improve the scalp’s appearance over time.

This shampoo is meant for routine use to control mild to moderate scalp psoriasis or to prepare the scalp so other topicals absorb better. Coal tar products can have a noticeable odor and may irritate some skin or stain fabrics. For best results, leave the shampoo on the scalp for a few minutes before rinsing. A 4.5 oz bottle typically costs $7-$12 and dermatologists commonly recommend it for scalp involvement.

6. Cortizone-10 Maximum Strength Hydrocortisone Anti-Itch Cream

Cortizone-10 Maximum Strength Hydrocortisone Anti-Itch Cream offers temporary relief from itching and inflammation tied to mild skin irritations, including small psoriasis flares. Its active ingredient is 1% hydrocortisone, a mild steroid available OTC. Hydrocortisone reduces inflammation and dampens local immune reactions in the skin, which eases itching and redness.

This cream isn’t intended as a long-term solution for widespread or severe psoriasis but can be useful for limited patches and quick itch relief. Follow usage directions closely, since overuse of corticosteroids can thin the skin. Cortizone-10 products are usually non-greasy and absorb well. A 1 oz tube commonly costs $5-$10 and is widely available, often praised for fast relief from itching.

7. Aveeno Skin Relief Moisturizing Lotion with Colloidal Oatmeal

Aveeno Skin Relief Moisturizing Lotion with colloidal oatmeal is a frequently suggested daily moisturizer for dry, itchy, and sensitive skin, including skin affected by psoriasis. Colloidal oatmeal soothes and helps reduce inflammation while protecting the skin barrier.

This fragrance-free lotion also contains glycerin, dimethicone, and Triple Oat Complex to lock in moisture and reinforce the skin’s barrier. Users find it absorbs quickly and appreciate its gentle feel, making it suitable for whole-body daily use. While it won’t be as potent against redness or inflammation as medicated therapies, it excels at addressing dryness and flaking—common psoriasis symptoms—and can help prevent flares when used alongside other treatments. A 12 oz bottle typically costs $8-$15 and is well-regarded for moisturizing and calming benefits.

Key Takeaways

• Topical options with ingredients like salicylic acid and coal tar help reduce scaling, flaking, and inflammation.
• Daily moisturizers—especially those with ceramides, urea, or colloidal oatmeal—are essential for keeping skin hydrated and protecting the barrier.
• EMUAIDMAX aims to relieve stubborn psoriasis patches by addressing inflammation, itching, and supporting repair.
• See a dermatologist to get a treatment plan tailored to your psoriasis type and severity.
• OTC products can manage many symptoms, but some cases require prescription drugs or phototherapy.

FAQ

What causes psoriasis flare-ups?

Psoriasis flares can be set off by many things, such as stress, cold or dry weather, skin injuries (Koebner phenomenon), infections like strep throat, certain medications (for example, beta-blockers or lithium), and habits like heavy alcohol use or smoking. Avoiding known triggers and sticking to a regular skincare routine can help lower the chance of flares.

Can diet affect psoriasis?

There isn’t conclusive proof that any particular diet cures psoriasis, but some people try dietary changes to manage symptoms. Talk with your healthcare provider before making major diet changes. Overall healthy eating can support general health, which may indirectly help your skin.

When should I see a dermatologist for psoriasis?

See a dermatologist for an accurate diagnosis and a treatment plan. Consult one if OTC products don’t help, if symptoms are severe or widespread, or if you suspect you have psoriasis for the first time. A dermatologist can identify triggers and recommend prescription options when needed.

Finding the right mix of products matters for managing psoriasis. These OTC choices help many people, but responses vary. Regular use and knowing your personal triggers make a big difference. If symptoms persist or worsen, consult a dermatologist to create a plan tailored to your needs.