One of the few known skin disorders that is characterized by excessive collagen disposition is morphea. Morphea is a type of localized scleroderma that causes patches of reddish skin in the human body. If it attacks the skin, it leads to thickening of the dermis or subcutaneous tissues. The scar can be seen and is usually thick, firm, and oval in shape. The affected person can experience them on the abdomen, stomach, face, arm or even legs.
When it comes to treatment few regimens have been tried and delivers benefits. A therapy that works to reduce inflammatory activity at an early stage have proven success. At the moment there is still no tangible cure for morphea within the public domain.
Alternative Treatment For Morphea
Phototherapy For Morphea
Phototherapy is one of the alternative treatment methods that have bespoken to offer topical treatment for morphea. The mechanism of phototherapy in morphea simple, light is converted into chemical energy. As a result of that, it increases the reactive oxygen species/singlet oxygen production. The outcome is seen when they modulate the expression of cytokines.
The process is known as UVA-1 phototherapy, which works by resolving sclerotic plagues. After achieving success, the skin becomes smooth and soft with normal structure back. What has been identified by health expert is that it works effectively when a low dose of UVA-1 is exposed.
We have three phototherapeutic modalities used for morphea. They include broadband UVB, narrowband UBV, and PUVA. The main advantage of using this method is that it has no side effects. It works well with all stages of morphea, which includes early inflammatory and late sclerotic.
Skin Moisturizing For Morphea
Morphea is caused by overproduction of collagen, which makes it difficult for the skin to keep moist. The cells in charge of providing oil and lubrication find barriers to execute their duties. More often the affected area is inflamed, thicken and harden.
Vitamin D cream has been tested to help in softening skin patches. The most common one is calcipotriene which helps in fighting psoriasis. It is applied to the affected area by rubbing gently once or twice according to doctor’s prescription.
Physical Therapy For Morphea
In some cases, muscle contractures and joint stiffness is seen in patients with morphea. Through a physiotherapist, one can manage pain, improve health, reduce muscle contractures and improve joint mobility. Physical therapy helps stretch the skin, joints, and muscles affected by morphea.
Homeopathy Using Rhus Tox And Rhus Radicans For Morphea
It is a homeopathic remedy that is used as an alternative treatment for managing several conditions associated with morphea. Poison ivy as it’s commonly referred to can treat cramp, restless legs, viral infection, and others. Its’ available in ointment, liquid or even gel form and one can apply it to the affected area.
Home Remedies For Skin Lesions In Morphea
The following home remedies can be applied to the affected skin lesions. Most of them have anti-inflammatory, antifibrotic and analgesic effects.
Peppermint Oil – mix 6 drops of peppermint oil with one teaspoon of coconut oil and then apply the mixture on the affected areas, leave it for 30 minutes or overnight and wash it off.
Lavender Oil – mix 6 drops of lavender oil with one teaspoon of coconut oil and then apply the mixture on the affected areas, leave it for 30 minutes or overnight and wash it off.
Turmeric Powder – mix turmeric powder with water to make a paste then apply the mixture on the affected areas, leave it for few minutes and wash it off.
Garlic – cut one or two garlic cloves and rub them on the affected area, leave for 20-30 minutes and wash it off.
Onions – rub half of the onion on the affected area, leave it for 20-30 minutes and wash it off.
Conclusion
When it comes to treatment few regimens have been tried and deliver benefits. A therapy that works to reduce inflammatory activity at an early stage have proven success. At the moment there’s still no tangible cure for morphea within the public domain. Phototherapy is one of the natural methods that have bespoken to offer topical treatment for morphea. Vitamin D cream has been tested to help in softening skin patches. Physical therapy helps stretch the skin, joints, and muscles affected by morphea. Homeopathy and some home remedies can also be used as alternative treatment potions for morphea.
- Dermatology and Therapy Journal – “Morphea: Current Concepts” (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5961403/)
Also Read:
