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Psoriasis

Psoriasis

Psoriasis Treatment in Mount Pleasant, SC

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin condition that greatly affects the life cycle of skin cells. This causes cells to build up rapidly on the surface of the skin, leading to thick, scaly patches that can be red, itchy, and inflamed. Psoriasis often affects areas such as the scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back but can appear anywhere on the body.

Psoriasis can be persistent and unpredictable, with flare-ups that come and go. For many patients, symptoms can range from mild scaling to severe, painful plaques that interfere with daily life. Triggers such as stress, infection, injury to the skin, or certain medications may worsen the condition or cause flare-ups.

There are several types of psoriasis, including plaque psoriasis (the most common form), guttate, inverse, pustular, and erythrodermic psoriasis. Each type presents differently, and the severity can vary significantly from one individual to another.

Psoriasis treatment in Mount Pleasant, SC, includes topical therapies, phototherapy (light therapy), oral medications, and biologics that target specific parts of the immune system. While there is no cure for psoriasis, these treatment options can effectively manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

Over-the-counter creams and lifestyle adjustments may help in mild cases, but moderate to severe psoriasis often requires a customized medical treatment plan. If you experience persistent skin plaques, discomfort, or worsening symptoms, it’s important to consult with a qualified provider for an accurate diagnosis and treatment strategy.

At Shepherd Integrative Dermatology, our team offers comprehensive psoriasis care tailored to your condition and lifestyle. We combine conventional and integrative approaches to help manage flare-ups, reduce inflammation, and restore skin health.

If you experience pain, widespread skin redness, fever, or signs of infection, you should seek medical attention immediately. These may indicate a more serious form of psoriasis or complications that require urgent care.

Psoriasis

Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that speeds up the skin’s production cycle, leading to red, inflamed patches on the skin. These plaques are often itchy, painful, and prone to cracking. Early diagnosis and treatment can help reduce discomfort, prevent complications, and improve your overall well-being.

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Psoriasis

Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that speeds up the skin's production cycle, leading to red, inflamed patches on the skin. These plaques are often itchy, painful, and prone to cracking. Early diagnosis and treatment can help reduce discomfort, prevent complications, and improve your overall well-being.

FAQs

Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that can also impact overall health. Up to 30% of people with psoriasis may develop psoriatic arthritis, a condition that causes joint pain, stiffness, and swelling. Psoriasis has also been linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, depression, and metabolic syndrome.

Psoriasis is not contagious. It cannot be spread from person to person through physical contact, shared items, or proximity. It is an immune-mediated condition often influenced by genetics and environmental triggers.

Diagnosis is typically made through a physical examination and a review of medical history. In some cases, a skin biopsy may be performed to confirm the type of psoriasis and rule out other skin conditions such as eczema or fungal infections.

Many people with psoriasis report worsening symptoms during cold, dry weather, while exposure to natural sunlight may help improve symptoms due to UV light’s anti-inflammatory effects. However, excessive sun exposure can also trigger flare-ups, so balance is key.

While not a cure, certain lifestyle habits such as managing stress, avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol, maintaining a healthy weight, and using gentle, fragrance-free skincare products can help reduce flare-ups and support treatment results.

If you are undergoing treatment with immunosuppressive medications (such as biologics or systemic therapies), your provider may recommend avoiding certain live vaccines. Always consult your healthcare provider before receiving any vaccines or immunizations.

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Bella

And the vibrations of serenity and beauty that you feel when you walk through our front door?  Bella is the inspiration for that!  Her calm, gentle nature sets the tone, helping us manage  unexpected events with ease and grace.  When Dr. Sheperd is in her studio, Bella is her steadfast companion, encouraging her creative vision which produces the stunning artwork displayed throughout our building.

Lulu

Lulu is the energy behind the warm welcome everyone receives at Sheperd Integrative Dermatology.  She models enthusiasm and curiosity to our entire team, which motivates us to engage fully with our amazing patients.  She reminds us to greet each new day with wonder, and shows us that excitement is waiting around every corner.  We just have to sniff it out!

Carter Hebel

MD

Board Certified Physician

A South Carolina native, Dr. Carter Hebel attended Clemson University and graduated summa cum laude with a bachelors in biomedical engineering. She then continued her education at the Medical University of South Carolina as a medical student and then Dermatology Resident. During her time at MUSC, she was elected to Alpha Omega Alpha, the national medical honor society, and was named Chief Resident of MUSC’s Dermatology Department

Dr. Hebel believes that diseases of the skin deserve the same thoughtful, diligent treatment as diseases in any other part of the body. She supports patients in feeling beautiful, confident, and healthy in their skin, recognizing that skin health is an essential aspect of total well-being.

Dr. Hebel treats a full range of skin conditions, including skin cancers, autoimmune diseases, acne, rosacea, hair loss, eczema, psoriasis, skin infections, nail problems, skin cancer and hidradenitis suppurativa. And of course, Dr. Hebel will offer her aesthetic skills to patients through neurotoxins, fillers, lasers and medical grade skincare!

Dana Aman

PA-C

Board Certified Physician Assistant

Dana is a board-certified Physician Assistant with Sheperd Integrative Dermatology.  Originally from Florida, Dana obtained her undergraduate degree from Florida State University and then went on to earn a Master’s in Physician Assistant Studies from North Greenville University in Greenville, South Carolina.  After obtaining her advanced degree, Dana completed a rigorous 6-month dermatology training program in California as well as a Diplomate Fellowship with the Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants.  After three years of specialized clinical dermatology practice in California, Dana moved to Charleston in 2023.  Dana’s patient care philosophy centers around active listening and shared decision-making. She believes that every patient should be an active participant in their healthcare journey and looks forward to establishing positive patient relationships at Sheperd Integrative Dermatology. 

Amy Jetter

BSN, RN

Amy brings her whole heart to her role on the Sheperd cosmetic team.  A graduate of Elon College and the Medical College of Virginia, Amy has been a board-certified nurse for over 30 years.  Bringing her skills as an ICU nurse into her role in cosmetic patient care, Amy provides a warm, reassuring presence to all her clients, listening to their concerns and collaborating with them in a plan to bring forth and enhance their natural beauty.  A standing member of the American Association of Plastic Surgery Nurses and a past RN trainer in cosmetic and aesthetic procedures, Amy offers all types of laser treatments, botox and dermal filler injections, and chemical peels.

Melissa Mancuso

Body Contouring Specialist

Melissa has six years of experience in body contouring, beginning with her role as the CoolSculpting representative for Maryland, Virginia, and the District of Columbia. Since joining the Sheperd team, she has received additional training and now offers chemical peels, Vivace micro-needling, and Diamond Glow dermal infusion. She loves helping patients feel good about their bodies and teaching them about how the various cosmetic procedures can help them achieve the results they are seeking.

Margaret Gierhart

LE

Margaret, a South Carolina native, is a Licensed Esthetician and makeup artist with over 20 years of experience in the beauty industry. She earned a BA in Psychology from the University of South Carolina. She began her career in beauty as the resident makeup artist for Bobbie Brown cosmetics at Saks Fifth Avenue in Charleston. In order to expand her knowledge, she earned her degree in esthetics from Trident Technical College, graduating with honors. She joined the Sheperd Integrative Dermatology staff in 2014 and is certified in a wide array of cosmetic procedures and skin care products. Her offerings include laser skin resurfacing, IPL, micro-needling, chemical peels, radio frequency, laser hair removal, and body contouring. Her background in both psychology and artistry gives her a deep capacity to care for patients and understand what makes them feel beautiful. A mother of two daughters, Margaret understands beauty as not only external appearance, but also as a manifestation of the inner qualities of kindness, generosity, and well-being.

Madeline Anderson

PA-C

Maddie is a board-certified Physician Assistant and a Lowcountry native. She obtained her undergraduate degree from Clemson University and then went on to earn a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from the Medical University of South Carolina, graduating with highest honors. While in PA school, Maddie served as a Student Representative for the SC Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants. After graduation, she completed a six-month advanced dermatology internship here at Sheperd Integrative Dermatology. She also completed the Diplomate Fellowship with the Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants. Maddie has a heart for medical missions and is passionate about patient education. Her free time is shared with her family, her friends, and her two fur babies!

AnnaKathryn Keiper

DNP, FNP-C

AnnaKathryn completed her Doctorate degree at the Medical University of South Carolina and has seven years of experience in dermatology. She has completed additional training in medical dermatology, cosmetic dermatology, and functional medicine. She provides skin cancer screenings, surgical removal of skin cancers, treatment of precancerous lesions, extractions of cysts, and the treatment of acne. In the cosmetic domain, she provides laser, filler, and neurotoxin treatments. Certified through the Institute of Functional Medicine, AnnaKathryn has a special focus on wellness, including weight loss and diet consulting. She uses her expertise in this field to create an individualized program to help each of her patients achieve optimal wellness supporting them in maintaining vibrancy and vitality throughout their lifespan.

Allyson Harrell Garrison

PA-C

Ally is a board-certified Physician Assistant and a Diplomate of the Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants, their highest rating. She is a graduate of Clemson University and earned her Master’s degree in Physicians Assistant studies at the University of South Alabama; additionally, she completed a dermatology fellowship at Charlotte Dermatology in North Carolina. For more than ten years, her focus on both medical and surgical dermatology has included identifying and treating skin cancers as well as managing biologic medications for psoriasis and atopic dermatitis. Ally has a strong love of surgical dermatology and she performs surgeries every day in the clinic, including excisions of cysts and skin cancers. She also loves the challenge of a difficult case! On the cosmetic side, Ally is a skilled injector of both Botox and Dysport. She sees compassion and empathy as vital qualities that she brings to all her patient interactions. She is mindful that skin cancer screenings can be frightening or overwhelming; her warm, calm manner and her focus on patient education throughout each appointment make her an outstanding clinician.

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