XTRAC Laser Therapy in Ft. Lauderdale | Psoriasis Treatment

Psoriasis can be frustrating to live with, especially when patches are stubborn, visible, or keep coming back in the same areas. If topical treatments have not been enough, or if you want a more targeted option for limited plaques, XTRAC laser therapy may be part of the conversation.

XTRAC is a form of targeted UVB light treatment that focuses energy on affected skin while limiting exposure to surrounding skin. For the right patient, it may help reduce plaques and calm inflammation, but it is not a one-size-fits-all solution. A board-certified dermatologist can evaluate whether it fits your skin, your symptoms, and your treatment plan.

Quick answer

• XTRAC uses targeted ultraviolet B light to treat psoriasis plaques.
• It may be helpful for localized psoriasis, including areas that can be hard to manage with creams alone.
• Treatment plans vary, and improvement can differ from person to person.
• It is usually considered as part of a broader psoriasis treatment strategy, not a universal answer for everyone.
• A dermatologist can help decide whether targeted phototherapy makes sense for your skin and your goals.

What is XTRAC laser therapy?

XTRAC is a targeted phototherapy device that delivers a concentrated beam of UVB light to psoriasis plaques. In plain English, that means it treats selected areas of inflamed skin instead of exposing larger areas of the body to light. This can be useful when psoriasis is limited to certain spots, such as the elbows, knees, scalp, hands, feet, or other stubborn patches.

Because psoriasis is an inflammatory skin condition, light-based treatment may help slow the overactive skin-cell buildup that leads to thick, scaly plaques. XTRAC is often discussed when someone wants a focused in-office option or when topical therapy alone has not been enough.

Who may be a candidate for XTRAC?

• People with localized or hard-to-treat psoriasis plaques
• Those who have not gotten enough relief from topical products alone
• People who want a targeted office-based treatment rather than full-body phototherapy
• Patients who want to discuss a non-systemic option with a dermatologist

That said, candidacy depends on more than the name of the treatment. Your skin type, the amount of skin involved, the body areas affected, past treatments, medications, and overall medical history all matter. If you are pregnant, nursing, taking photosensitizing medications, or have a history that affects light-based treatments, your dermatologist can guide the discussion.

Potential benefits and limitations

The main appeal of XTRAC is precision. Because the light is directed only where it is needed, it may be a practical option for isolated plaques and sensitive treatment areas. Many patients also like that it is performed in the office and does not require daily at-home application the way some topical regimens do.

Still, it is important to keep expectations realistic. XTRAC does not guarantee clearance, and not every type or pattern of psoriasis responds the same way. Some people need ongoing management or combination treatment, and some may be better served by topical medication, broader phototherapy, or systemic treatment depending on severity and body surface area.

What to expect during treatment

Treatment sessions are typically brief. During a visit, the device is applied to the psoriasis plaques and delivers targeted UVB light to the affected areas. The exact plan is individualized. Your dermatologist determines the starting dose and adjusts treatment based on your skin response, the location being treated, and how your psoriasis behaves over time.

After treatment, some people notice temporary redness or tenderness in treated spots. Your clinician will review what is normal, what to watch for, and how to care for your skin between visits. It is reasonable to ask about expected frequency, possible irritation, how progress is assessed, and whether XTRAC would be used alongside other psoriasis treatments.

When to see a dermatologist

• Your psoriasis is spreading, painful, or interfering with sleep, work, or daily life
• You are not getting enough control with over-the-counter products or prescription topicals
• Plaques are affecting the scalp, hands, feet, nails, or other areas that are difficult to manage
• You are unsure whether a rash is psoriasis or something else
• You want to compare targeted phototherapy with other treatment options

Psoriasis is a medical skin condition, and a dermatologist can help confirm the diagnosis, review treatment options, and build a plan that matches your symptoms and goals.

FAQ

Is XTRAC the same as regular laser resurfacing?

No. XTRAC is a targeted UVB phototherapy treatment used for inflammatory skin conditions such as psoriasis. It is different from cosmetic resurfacing lasers.

Can XTRAC treat all psoriasis?

Not always. It may be useful for localized plaques, but widespread or more complex psoriasis may call for a different approach or a combination plan.

How quickly does it work?

Response varies. Some people notice improvement over a series of treatments, while others may need a different strategy. Your clinician can explain what is realistic for your case.

Does XTRAC replace psoriasis creams or medications?

Sometimes it is used alone, and sometimes it is part of a broader plan. Your dermatologist can help decide whether it should be combined with other therapies.

Is every rash that looks scaly psoriasis?

No. Eczema, fungal infections, contact dermatitis, and other skin conditions can sometimes look similar. If you are unsure, it is worth getting checked rather than self-diagnosing.

This article is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. For diagnosis and personalized treatment, please book an appointment with a board-certified dermatologist.

Sources & further reading

• National Psoriasis Foundation – How to Treat Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis
• American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) – Psoriasis treatment: Phototherapy
• DermNet – UVB Phototherapy (Ultraviolet Light Therapy)