Psoriasis is a common skin condition which can affect many of us throughout our lifetimes, but what is it and how do we treat it?

What is psoriasis?

Psoriasis is characterised by raised circular plaques or patches of pink flaky skin, especially on the elbows, knees and scalp, although it can affect any part of the body.

The exact cause is unknown but it is thought that in psoriasis new skin cells are produced many times faster than normal, resulting in a build-up of thick scales of dead skin.

This may be an auto-immune response, possible following bacterial or viral infection, or due to environmental or other factors. Flare-ups can be aggravated or triggered by medication, excess alcohol, obesity, too much or too little sunlight, poor health, injury, trauma, stress, cold and damp.

5 types of Psoriasis

There are five main types of Psoriasis, with differing symptoms and characteristics:

Plaque Psoriasis
This is one of the most common types of Psoriasis, which approximately 80% of those with Psoriasis suffer from. It is characterised by red lesions on the areas such as the elbows, scalp, knees and lower back. These lesions can be raised and covered by silvery or white dry skin patches, and can sometimes be itchy or even painful.

Guttate Psoriasis
This type of Psoriasis can be common in children as it is often developed during childhood, and appears as small, pink spots or dots on the skin. These spots are usually found on the legs, arms and torso.

Inverse Psoriasis
Inverse Psoriasis can be found in areas of the body which ‘fold’, such as the armpits, behind the knees, in genital areas and under the breasts. This type of Psoriasis can be characterised by bright red areas of skin that are shiny or smooth.

Pustular Psoriasis
This form of Psoriasis mostly affects adults only. Pustular Psoriasis presents on the skin as white blisters and redness on the skin. The blisters can contain pus (non-infectious and non-contagious.) It is usually found on the hands and feet, but in more extreme cases it may occur elsewhere on the body. Pustular Psoriasis may be painful.

Erythrodermic Psoriasis
Known as the most severe form of Psoriasis, Erythrodermic Psoriasis is highly inflammatory and can cover the majority of the body’s surface. Skin is usually extremely itchy, red and flaky. It may occur in those who have ‘unstable’ Plaque Psoriasis but is generally rare – around 3% of Psoriasis sufferers experience this form. It may require hospitalisation.

What can help psoriasis?

Treatment regimes that work well for one person may not help another, but some basic tips are beneficial for most people.

  • It is generally accepted that there is a link between psoriasis and the nervous system, and managing stress levels, for example by learning some good relaxation techniques and getting a good night’s sleep, will usually help.
  • Using only natural fibres such as cotton and silk clothing and bed linen will help to reduce irritation.
  • Psoriasis is often improved by moderate exposure to sunlight. Apply a hydrating moisturiser before using a sun lotion. Some sunscreens block pores and aggravate itching and flaking, so choose natural, organic lotions and avoid the sun when it is at its strongest (between 11am and 3pm).

Psoriasis diet tips

Foods suspected of aggravating psoriasis include animal fats, acids, spices, salt and stimulants such as alcohol, tea, coffee and soft drinks. Increasing your intake of essential fatty acids can often help. Another cause may be overgrowth of the fungal infection Candida albicans. Removing sugars, refined starches, alcohol and yeast-based foods from the diet is worth exploring.

Anti-inflammatory foods are generally healthy, so it shouldn’t hurt to give them a try. They include:

  • Fruits and veggies, especially berries, cherries, and leafy greens
  • Salmon, sardines, and other fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids
  • Antioxidant-rich herbs and spices, like thyme, sage, cumin, and ginger
  • Heart-healthy sources of fat, like olive oil, seeds, and nuts

Some foods can make inflammation worse. Eat less of these:

  • Processed foods and refined sugars
  • Fatty cuts of red meat
  • Dairy

Psoriasis skin care: lifestyle tips

  • Avoid harsh household products, chemical washing powders, fabric conditioners, drying alcohol (ethyl alcohol/ethanol), foaming agents such as sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS) and products containing perfume and colouring.
  • If you suffer from psoriasis of the scalp, choose a natural shampoo suitable for psoriasis. Take your own natural shampoo and conditioner when you visit the hairdressers to avoid irritation from branded products. 
  • Use only gentle, natural skin care products. Look for those containing Calendula and Jojoba to restore moisture and sebum balance and Shea butter to moisturise and soothe irritation, Chamomile and Lavender for their anti-inflammatory and healing action. See our Sensitive range now
  • Apply body butter before and after bathing to soothe and moisturise your skin
  • Find a deodorant suitable for psoriasis. Our natural deodorantis ultra-gentle on sensitive skin and is extremely effective.
  • Treat yourself to an Epsom salt or Dead Sea salt bath. Dead Sea mud can also be used as a body treatment