Psoriasis
Updated · SkinWise Clinic
Psoriasis is an immune-mediated condition that can cause persistent scaly plaques and affect nails or joints. It is not contagious. Treatment aims to control disease and its impact, with choices based on the sites involved, severity, other health conditions and preferences.
Plaques may appear differently across skin tones. Itch, discomfort and visible colour changes can affect daily life as well as appearance.
Mention joint swelling, pain or morning stiffness, even if the skin symptoms seem mild. Those symptoms may need assessment for psoriatic arthritis.
How psoriasis shows up
- Scaly plaques
- Scalp or nail changes
- Itch, soreness or fissuring
- Joint pain or stiffness in some people
What contributes to psoriasis
- Immune and genetic factors
- Individual triggers, including some infections or medicines
- Skin injury can provoke lesions in susceptible people
When to see a dermatologist
Arrange assessment for suspected psoriasis or treatment that is not helping. Joint symptoms need timely review. Widespread severe inflammation with illness or fever needs urgent medical assessment.
How psoriasis is treated at SkinWise
Topical treatment, light treatment or systemic medicines may be discussed according to the clinical picture. Suitability, monitoring and risks vary. Joint concerns may require coordinated care; no single cream or diet cures every case.
Services that treat psoriasis
Evidence behind these choices
- Psoriasis topical treatment: AAD–NPF guideline (2021)
Supports individual topical treatment and assessment of severity and impact. Treatment selection and safe use depend on the affected sites and clinical circumstances.
- Psoriasis diagnosis and treatment — AAD
Care includes symptoms, affected sites, nails and possible joint disease. Some patients need light or systemic treatment with an appropriate monitoring plan.
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Frequently asked questions
Is it contagious?
No. It cannot be caught through ordinary skin contact.
Do I need a biologic medicine?
That depends on severity, affected sites, other conditions and prior response. It needs an individual risk and monitoring discussion.
Can I stop treatment once plaques improve?
Ask for a maintenance plan. Stopping or changing prescriptions without advice may lead to loss of control.
Ready to start with a consult?
A focused first consultation is where we slow down, map your concern and build the smallest plan that will actually move the needle. No oversell, no fixed menu.