Psoriasis

Psoriasis is derived from the Greek word, which means "an itch". Psoriasis commonly affects elbows, knees, hands, nails, scalp, face and feet. Psoriasis can affect people of any age but it is rare in children under 10 and is most common in adults aged 15-40. The skin condition often runs in families but it is commonly agreed that stress, alcohol and infections tend to exacerbate psoriasis.

The Cause?

The cause of psoriasis is unknown. What does happen in the affected area of the skin is that the epidermis replaces itself too quickly and the skin piles up resulting in patches of red, itchy, silvery red scaly skin. Psoriasis can be irritated by harsh ingredient in many skincare products and can result in skin flare-ups.

How can Psoriasis be treated?

As with all dry skin conditions daily care is important to keep the condition at bay.

1. Use emollients to lubricate the skin and keep it moisturised in order to reduce the itch caused by dry patches
2. It is important to use gentle non irritating shower gels, washes and shampoos in order to reduce skin flare-ups
3. Coal tar ointments can be used to loosen the scale on the skin and help lift it off (under medical supervision)
4. Steroids and anti fungal creams can be used under medical supervision

Descaling shampoos which contain a combination of coal tar and salicylic acid and coconut oil may be recommended by your doctor.

Irritating ingredients found in regular skincare products such as harsh preservatives, foaming agents, perfumes and colourings can aggravate psoriasis and lead to skin flare-ups and irritation. It is important to become aware of ingredients and chemicals that irritate the skin and avoid coming in contact with them. For more information on these chemicals, visit our chemicals page. Check out the Greenpeace Chemical Home Report which assesses the effects of these ingredients on our bodies and our health.