Psoriasis

Treatment depends on the type and extent, and often starts with topical treatments and good skincare, with referral where more specialist options are needed.

Some people develop joint symptoms (psoriatic arthritis). We ask about this and arrange an appropriate referral if it is suspected.

No. Psoriasis is not contagious; it relates to how the immune system affects skin cell turnover.

Psoriasis is usually a long-term condition, but the right plan can significantly improve and control it.

Psoriasis treatment usually works gradually rather than overnight. Some improvement may be noticeable within the first few weeks, but it can take several weeks to assess the full benefit, depending on the treatment, the severity of the psoriasis and the areas affected.

Scalp and nail psoriasis may take longer to respond. We will explain what to expect, review your progress and adjust the treatment plan if your psoriasis is not improving as hoped.

These conditions can look similar but are managed quite differently, so an accurate diagnosis matters. Eczema tends to be dry, itchy and inflamed; psoriasis often causes thicker, scaly patches; and rosacea mainly affects the central face with flushing and redness. Others, such as seborrhoeic dermatitis, can overlap too. We examine your skin and take a history to reach the right diagnosis and the right treatment.

Topical steroids are a well-established and effective treatment for psoriasis when used as directed. They are usually applied thinly to the affected plaques for a defined treatment period, using the strength recommended for the area being treated. Thicker plaques on the body or scalp may require a stronger preparation, while milder steroids are used cautiously on the face and skin folds.

Steroids are often prescribed alongside moisturisers or vitamin D–based treatments. We will explain how much to apply, how often to use it and when to reduce or stop treatment, as prolonged unsupervised use of stronger steroids can cause side effects.