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Psoriasis

What is Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by red, scaly plaques, and is caused by the body’s overproduction of skin cells. Normally, skin cells renew over a month, but in psoriasis, this process happens in just a few days. This rapid turnover leads to flaking, redness, and inflammation.

Psoriasis affects about 2–4% of the population and is not contagious, but its visible nature can significantly impact physical, emotional, and social well-being. With appropriate treatment and management, psoriasis symptoms can be controlled, the flares can be minimised, and the quality of life can be improved.

Who Gets Psoriasis?

  • Psoriasis can occur at any age but typically peaks between 15–25 years and 50–60 years.
  • It is more common in Caucasians but can affect people of any ethnicity.
  • One-third of individuals with psoriasis have a family history of the condition.

What Causes Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is an immune-mediated genetic skin disease, involving an interaction between the immune system and genetic predisposition. Certain triggers may worsen psoriasis, including:

  • Infections (e.g., strep throat)
  • Skin injuries (cuts, burns, or sunburn)
  • Stress and emotional events
  • Cold, dry weather
  • Obesity, smoking, or alcohol consumption
  • Certain medications (e.g., beta-blockers, lithium)

What Does Psoriasis Look Like?

  • Red, scaly plaques with clearly defined edges.
  • Silvery white scaling, except in skin folds where plaques appear shiny or moist.
  • Common sites include the scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back.
  • Symptoms may include itching, skin cracking, or painful fissures, especially on the palms and soles.
  • Psoriasis can result in post-inflammatory pigmentation changes (dark or pale marks) that fade over time.

How is Psoriasis Treated?

While there is no cure, effective treatments can reduce symptoms, clear plaques, and prevent flare-ups.

General Lifestyle Advice

  • Stop smoking and limit alcohol consumption.
  • Maintain a healthy weight and manage stress levels.
  • Use moisturisers to prevent dry skin.

Topical Treatments (for mild cases)

  • Moisturising Creams and Ointments: Reduces dryness and scaling.
  • Vitamin D analogs creams and ointments: Slows skin cell growth.
  • Topical corticosteroid creams and ointments: Reduces inflammation.
  • Coal tar preparations and salicylic acid: Help with scaling and itching.

Phototherapy

  • UVB phototherapy: Exposes the skin to controlled ultraviolet light.
  • PUVA: Combines UV light with a photosensitizing medication.
  • Excimer laser: Targets small, localized plaques.

Systemic Treatments (for moderate to severe cases)

  • Methotrexate: Reduces inflammation.
  • Cyclosporine: Suppresses the immune system.
  • Acitretin: A retinoid that slows skin cell turnover.

Biologic Therapies

  • Reserved for severe cases or psoriatic arthritis and these medications target specific inflammatory pathways,

Managing Psoriasis Long-Term

Psoriasis flares are unpredictable, but effective management programs can improve symptoms and prevent recurrence. At Elixir @ Hunter Skin cancer clinic, we help patients:

  • Educate patients on Psoriasis and management options.
  • Help control the condition, clear skin lesions and manage flares with customised treatment plans.
  • Identify triggers and provide lifestyle guidance.
  • Ongoing support and treatment options to maintain long-term control.

Don’t let Psoriasis impact your life. With personalized care, expert advice, and the latest treatments, we’re here to help you regain control and confidence. Book an appointment now to get help.

Psoriasis Links and FAQs

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