We have spoken with one of our leading skincare doctors to share everything you need to know about the skin condition, as well as what products and treatments are currently available to help manage those flare ups

World Psoriasis Day is here (29th October), and with more people opening up and coming forward about the skin condition to share awareness on it, we thought now would be a great time to pick the brains of our leading consultant and Medical Director, Dr Daron Seukeran on everything there is to know about the skin condition.

1. How is it caused?
Psoriasis is a condition that shows up on the skin as red, flaky and almost crusty patches that are covered in silvery scales. It occurs when skin cells are replaced more quickly than usual – it is not known exactly why this happens, but research suggests it is down to your immune system overreacting, leading to your body producing new skin cells in the deepest layer of the skin . The creation of new skin cells normally takes around three to four weeks and in people who suffer with Psoriasis the process can be as quick as three to seven days.

2. It can appear anywhere!
The most common areas it can appear are on the scalp, elbows and knees but can also appear anywhere else on the body. It will usually come up similar to a rash that is itchy and sore. The symptoms however can be completely unique to the individual as there are many different types of Psoriasis. This is also the same for the severity of the condition, it can very much vary person to person.

Not only does it affect the body’s surface with its markings, but it can also have an impact on the mental health of those living with it as well as other conditions such as other inflammatory diseases including cardiovascular disease, arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease.

3. It is more common that you think

With around 1.1 million people in the UK living with psoriasis, which is roughly 2%. So, even if you don’t have it yourself it is very likely you know someone who does. Symptoms can often start to appear during teenage years, and mostly affect those under the age of 35, however, symptoms can also start at any age.

Did you know? There are a number of celebrities such as Cara Delevingne, Kris Kardashian, Kim Kardashian West and even Alan Carr who have publicly shared their experiences of living with the skin condition

4. It is totally manageable
Psoriasis cannot be cured; however, there are many treatments now available to help control and manage the condition. It is important to understand your triggers and what may induce a flare up. This may be achieved by leading a healthy lifestyle as well as managing your stress levels, as these factors can also impact on flare ups. There are also a number of ointments and creams available to use, however it is advised that you seek advice from your GP or a dermatologist to make sure you are opting for the right product.

 

In addition to this, specialist treatments, such as Phototherapy, where your skin is exposed to certain types of ultraviolet light, have been found to be very effective in people suffering with Psoriasis. There are also oral medications which can be very effective but in those who fail in all treatments there is the option of a new generation of injectable treatments now available, known as Biologics, which is transforming the treatment of the condition, helping sufferers to effectively manage their symptoms.

For more information on consultations, or to book an appointment for help in managing Psoriasis, or any other skin conditions with her, click here.