Understanding Psoriasis: Treatment Approaches

Psoriasis is a common condition and almost 3% of the global population suffers. It can affect any gender, age group—adults, children, elderly. In my practice, I’ve been seeing young and old, male and female, everyone with unique psoriasis stories. Some have just a few stubborn patches; others deal with widespread, severe symptoms.

Psoriasis can pop up everywhere on the body—it’s not just your arms and legs. It can be from the scalp to the soles of the feet, and it comes in many forms: plaque, guttate, inverse, pustular, erythrodermic, circular, geographic.

There is a genetic background for psoriasis —and of course, triggers that can cause it. Before, many thought psoriasis was just a skin condition.

It’s absolutely not—psoriasis is a systemic disease. It can be complicated by arthritis, cardiovascular issues and diabetes. It’s like your skin is throwing a continuous temper tantrum.

Our approach today is completely different compared to a decade ago: if we treat correctly and early in the disease, we can prevent and minimise complications, reduce disease burden and prevent severe outcomes. That’s why we use a range of treatments—conventional systemics, biologics, small molecules—alongside topical treatments and, of course, moisturisers.

Patients present with red, thick, scaly patches anywhere on the body, but most commonly on the arms and legs. You can also have isolated forms in the genital area or scalp.

Psoriasis can be connected to arthritis—people sometimes complain of joint pain. In some cases, it even affects the face. Now that we have many treatments available, it’s becoming much easier for psoriasis patients—but the most important thing is to seek help.

• You should seek help—listen to your dermatologist.
• Moisturise your skin. Hydrated skin is less prone to infection and more resilient against irritation. We know psoriasis patients can experience the Koebner phenomenon (where new lesions form at sites of scratching), so moisturising and hydrating skin helps keep inflammation as low as possible. Think of moisturising as giving your skin a big drink of water: it makes everything function better.
• Identify and avoid triggers: stress, skin injuries, smoking, infections and certain medications. Some drugs—beta blockers, ACE inhibitors, lithium, certain antimalarials—are known culprits that can trigger or worsen psoriasis. Always review what medications you’re taking.
• Adopt a healthy lifestyle: eat healthy, anti-inflammatory food; stay active; control your weight. Everything runs smoother when you do.
• Follow your treatment plan as prescribed. There’s responsibility from the patient side, too. If someone never uses their prescribed creams or forgets biologics, flares will continue. Compliance makes all the difference.

Moisturisers are your skin’s best friend when it’s dry and uncomfortable—they trap water, soothe irritation and enhance the skin’s appearance. The secret in effectiveness lies in key ingredients:

1. Occlusives (e.g., petrolatum, mineral oil) form a barrier on your skin, locking in hydration.
2. Humectants (e.g., glycerin, urea) draw water into the skin, keeping it plump and hydrated.
3. Emollients (e.g., ceramides, free fatty acids) smooth the skin surface and help repair the barrier.

For sensitive skin, look for “hypoallergenic” labels. If you have acne-prone skin, avoid comedogenic formulas. Avoid fragrances and alcohol—they can irritate. Ingredients to watch for include propylene glycol (a water magnet), urea (hydrates and gently exfoliates), glycerin (attracts water), hyaluronic acid (holds water), ceramides (lock in moisture) and lactic acid (hydrates).

Absolutely. In the old days, dermatology was all about occlusion—we had to fix patients with severe skin changes without biologics.

Wrapping a moisturised area (for example, with kitchen cling film) lets the product go deeper, reduces evaporation and accelerates healing—especially on thick plaques like on the feet or elbows. You can do it for a few hours or overnight.

Lifestyle changes make a big difference. Psychodermatology is real: when you feel great—manage stress, practise yoga or meditation, stay active—your skin often improves. Enjoy nature, breathe fresh air, spend time outdoors.

Laughter is great medicine: socialise, laugh, have fun to reduce stress. Sometimes people with visible lesions withdraw socially, but staying connected and smiling can really help both skin and mind.

• Only dry skin needs moisturiser. That’s completely wrong. Any skin type—even oily—needs daily hydration; moisturiser is your skin’s drink of water.
• No sunscreen on cloudy days. UV rays penetrate clouds—apply SPF every day to prevent flares, pigmentation and premature ageing
• Expensive products are always better. Budget-friendly options often work just as well—focus on ingredients, not price tags.
• Natural ingredients are automatically safe. Some botanical extracts can cause contact allergies. Science-backed products are the safer choice

Don’t delay—speak up and seek help early. Psoriasis is common and not something to be embarrassed about. Connect with your dermatologist, other specialists and support groups. If your current care isn’t working, don’t hesitate to seek a second opinion—every doctor and patient is different.

You’re not alone; support groups offer helpful tips and a sense of community. Remember: don’t suffer in silence. Talk about your psoriasis and seek professional help. And, of course, moisturise.