Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a chronic immune-mediated skin condition causing raised, red, scaly patches that can be itchy, sore, and significantly affect confidence and quality of life. It follows a relapsing-remitting course, with flares triggered by stress, infections, and other factors. Modern treatments — including highly effective biologics — can achieve clear or almost clear skin for most people.
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This page provides general health information only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
What is psoriasis?
Psoriasis is caused by an overactive immune response that accelerates the skin cell cycle — skin cells are produced and shed in days rather than weeks, building up into the characteristic thick, scaly plaques. It is not contagious and is not caused by poor hygiene.
Beyond the skin, psoriasis is a systemic inflammatory condition. Around 30% of people with psoriasis develop psoriatic arthritis — a painful joint condition — which is why regular monitoring and early treatment are important. Psoriasis is also associated with increased cardiovascular risk, metabolic syndrome, and mental health difficulties.
Types of psoriasis
- Plaque psoriasis — the most common type (90%); raised, red plaques covered with silvery scales, typically on the elbows, knees, scalp, and lower back
- Guttate psoriasis — small drop-shaped spots, often triggered by streptococcal throat infection; more common in children and young adults
- Inverse psoriasis — smooth, red patches in skin folds (armpits, groin, under breasts)
- Pustular psoriasis — pus-filled blisters; can be localised or widespread
- Psoriatic arthritis — joint inflammation affecting up to 30% of people with psoriasis
Common triggers
- Stress — one of the most potent and consistent triggers
- Infections — particularly streptococcal throat infections
- Skin injury — trauma, sunburn, or scratching can trigger new patches (Koebner phenomenon)
- Medications — beta-blockers, lithium, and antimalarials can worsen psoriasis
- Alcohol and smoking — both worsen severity and reduce treatment response
- Hormonal changes — pregnancy, menopause
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if psoriasis is affecting your quality of life, if you develop joint pain or swelling, or if your current treatment is no longer controlling your skin. Psoriatic arthritis can cause permanent joint damage if untreated — any new joint symptoms in someone with psoriasis should be assessed promptly.
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Treatment options
Topical treatments (mild–moderate)
- Topical corticosteroids — reduce inflammation and scaling during flares
- Vitamin D analogues (calcipotriol) — slow skin cell production; often combined with steroids
- Coal tar preparations — for scalp and body psoriasis
Systemic treatments (moderate–severe)
- Methotrexate — effective oral treatment for moderate-severe plaque psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis
- Ciclosporin — rapid-acting for severe flares
- Biologics (adalimumab, secukinumab, ixekizumab, risankizumab) — highly targeted injectable treatments achieving clear or almost-clear skin in the majority of patients
- Phototherapy — UVB light treatment for widespread plaque psoriasis
How eMedClinic can help
Our dermatologists provide psoriasis assessments, prescribe topical and systemic treatments, and refer for biologic therapy assessment where appropriate. We support expats who have moved abroad and need continuity of their psoriasis care — whether that is a topical prescription renewal or ongoing systemic treatment review.
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