Medical Dermatology · Condition guide
Psoriasis
Also known as: scaly skin patches
Thick, scaly plaques, a long-term condition we control, not just soothe.
The short version
Psoriasis is a long-term condition where skin cells renew too fast, building thick, scaly, itchy plaques, commonly on elbows, knees, scalp and nails. It is not contagious.
It comes and goes, and it is linked with joint pain and general health. We build a long-term control plan, not just a cream for this week.
What it can look and feel like
- Thick, scaly, silvery plaques
- Itching or soreness
- Heavy scalp flaking
- Pitted or thickened nails
Why it happens
- An overactive immune system
- Family history
- Triggers, stress, infections, skin injury
- Smoking, alcohol and weight can worsen it
How we treat it
- Prescription topicals
- Narrowband UVB phototherapy in-clinic
- Scalp treatment programmes
- Systemic tablets for severe cases
Every plan starts with a proper diagnosis, your treatment is chosen for your skin, your history and your lifestyle. See our in-clinic treatments →
Related reading
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Living with psoriasis? Let's help you manage it.
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