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Psoriasis cream

By the Life in Good Form editors. Updated 2026-10-15.

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Three over-the-counter options

Details are from CeraVe's product page and the MG217 and Vanicream Drug Facts labels on DailyMed. The salicylic acid and coal tar products are labeled for psoriasis symptoms such as itching, scaling, flaking and redness; the hydrocortisone cream is labeled for temporary relief of itching, with psoriasis listed among its causes.

Salicylic acid creams

CeraVe says its Psoriasis Moisturizing Cream has salicylic acid 2% as the active ingredient, to help with itching, scaling, redness, flaking and irritation associated with psoriasis. It says salicylic acid promotes the skin's natural exfoliation, and also lists lactic acid, urea, glycerin, dimethicone and niacinamide. Its directions: cleanse first, then apply to affected areas one to four times daily or as directed by a doctor.

CeraVe warns the cream contains an alpha-hydroxy acid that may increase your skin's sensitivity to the sun. It advises daily sunscreen, protective clothing and limiting sun exposure while using it and for a week afterward. See our mineral sunscreen guide.

Coal tar ointments

The MG217 Multi-Symptom label lists coal tar 2% for relief of itching, scaling, flaking, redness and irritation of the skin associated with psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis, and says it helps prevent recurrence. Apply to affected areas 1 to 4 times daily or as directed by a physician.

• Sun. It may increase your tendency to sunburn for up to 24 hours after application.
• Ask a doctor first before using it for prolonged periods, over a large area of the body, around the rectum, genitals or groin, or with other psoriasis therapy such as ultraviolet light or prescription drugs.
• Scalp and hair. The ointment is not recommended on the scalp unless a physician directs, because it may be difficult to remove from hair.
• California warning. The label carries a Proposition 65 warning that coal tar is known to the State of California to cause cancer.

Hydrocortisone 1% for itch

The Vanicream HC label lists hydrocortisone 1% for the temporary relief of itching associated with minor skin irritations, inflammation and rashes, including psoriasis. Adults and children 2 years and older can apply it not more than 3 to 4 times daily; do not use it on children under 2 without a doctor. Stop and ask a doctor if symptoms persist for more than 7 days or come back within a few days.

NIAMS says creams, ointments, lotions, foams or solutions, especially those containing corticosteroids, are commonly used for mild to moderate psoriasis. NIAMS also lists other topical medicines, such as vitamin D-based medicines and retinoids, that a doctor can discuss with you. For more on itch relief, see our eczema cream guide.

Everyday skin care for psoriasis

NIAMS suggests these steps to help manage symptoms:

• Moisturize. Bathe in lukewarm water with mild soap that has added oils, then apply heavy moisturizers while your skin is still damp. See our body lotion guide and body oil guide.
• Small amounts of sunlight. Limited sunlight can ease symptoms, but too much can make them worse, so ask your doctor; take extra care with coal tar, which its label says can raise sunburn risk.
• Avoid triggers. Some people find stress, cold weather, skin injuries, certain medicines and infections spark flares.
• Lifestyle. NIAMS notes that obesity makes symptoms worse, that heavier smoking is linked to worse symptoms, and that excessive alcohol may aggravate them.

When to see a dermatologist

See a dermatologist if over-the-counter creams do not help, if psoriasis covers a large area, or if it affects your nails, scalp, face or genitals. NIAMS lists prescription options including methotrexate, biologics and phototherapy, which is usually used when large areas of skin are affected. Rheumatologists care for people with psoriatic arthritis, so mention any joint pain or swelling.

NIAMS also notes psoriasis can raise the risk of anxiety and depression, and that support groups or a mental health provider can help.

What to look for when you buy

Questions people ask

What cream is good for psoriasis?

Over the counter, salicylic acid and coal tar creams are labeled for psoriasis symptoms; NIAMS says corticosteroid creams are commonly used for mild to moderate disease.

How often should I apply psoriasis cream?

The CeraVe and MG217 labels say one to four times daily, or as a doctor directs.

Does coal tar make you sunburn?

The MG217 label says it may increase your tendency to sunburn for up to 24 hours.

Can I use hydrocortisone on psoriasis?

Vanicream HC lists psoriasis itch among its uses; ask a doctor if symptoms last more than 7 days.

When should I see a doctor?

If creams do not help, psoriasis covers a large area, or you have joint pain.

Sources

• Psoriasis: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Steps to Take (www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/psoriasis/diagnosis-treatment-and-steps-to-take), National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases
• Psoriasis Moisturizing Cream (cerave.com), CeraVe
• MG217 Psoriasis Medicated Multi-Symptom (coal tar) Ointment label (dailymed.nlm.nih.gov), DailyMed, U.S. National Library of Medicine
• Vanicream HC Anti-Itch (hydrocortisone) Cream label (dailymed.nlm.nih.gov), DailyMed, U.S. National Library of Medicine

Sources checked 2026-10-15.