All about Psoriasis
What is it?
Psoriasis is a skin condition that can be really debilitating for the sufferer and is surprisingly common. It affects around 2 in 100 people in the UK. It can start at any age but is more common in adults between 20 and 30 years old and 50 – 60. It doesn’t matter whether you are male or female as it affects both sexes equally. Psoriasis is a chronic, autoimmune condition. This causes a rapid build up of your skin cells, which leads to scaling on the surface of the skin. When the skin is functioning normally, our skin cells grow in the deeper levels. These rise to the surface of the skin before shedding. This process typically takes around 30 days. However, in psoriasis, this process occurs in just a few days, which is what causes the build-up.
What does it look like?
It really depends on skin colour and the type of psoriasis. On brown, black, and white skin the patches can look pink or red and the scales white or silvery. On brown and black skin, the patches can also look purple or dark brown and the scales may look grey. These patches normally appear on your elbows, knees, scalp, and lower back but can appear anywhere on your body.
What are the different types?
Plaque psoriasis
The most common type, it gets its name from the plaques that build up. These can cause the skin to be red, itchy and sore and can be white or silvery scales. It can occur anywhere on the body.
Scalp psoriasis
This is plaque psoriasis but appears on the scalp. It can feel itchy and tight and look like dandruff in its flaking. It can be visible round the hair line and may be present on the forehead, neck and behind the ears. It can cause hair thinning, although if successfully treated then this would be temporary.
Guttate psoriasis
This presents itself as a widespread rash, consisting of small spots. This type if more common in children, teenagers and young adults. It more commonly presents itself on the torso, back and the limbs.
Pustular psoriasis
There are 2 types:
Palmoplantar Pustulosis: main sign is patches of red or dark skin on the palms of the hands or soles of the feet, which are covered with small, fluid filled, pustules. The fluid can give a yellow or cream colour, which burst, dry up and turn brown and crusty. It can be painful due to cracking.
Generalised pustular psoriasis: Occurs on other areas of the body rather than the hands and feet. It is unrelated to palmoplantar. It is rare and requires urgent medical attention.
Psoriasis requires a diagnosis from your GP in the first instance. In severe cases, medical treatment will be necessary. However, in the main, the medical approach will be topical rather than an holistic approach.
Our 4 step approach to skin health
We work alongside brands that have the scientific knowledge and research to deliver results
Step 1 Daily Skin Health – Preparation
Healthy-looking skin starts with a strong foundation. A broad-spectrum multivitamin and beneficial skin-friendly biome bacteria provide a base for your oral skincare regime. This nurtures the sloe connection between our gut and our skin
Step 2 Daily skin Health – Essentials
Build on this preparation base with key nutrients for overall skin health. These ingredients include omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin A and antioxidants.
Step 3 Targeted Internal Skin Solutions.
Select your supplements to address specific skin concerns such as ageing, dullness, dryness and problem prone skin. Choose a targeted skin solution to use in conjunction with our daily skin health and enjoy the benefits of the synergy.
Step 4 Targeted External Skin Solutions
Choose topicals that have been shown to deliver results on skin health. As with internal approach we apply similar ingredients topically to complement and repair.
Our top products for inside/outside skincare for Psoriasis
An unhealthy gut and dysbiosis can also lead to long-term dry skin concerns. New and improved Skin Youth Biome contains 4 strains of probiotics, 5 billion live cultures ‘friendly bacteria’ plus postbiotics to rebalance your gut health and feed your skin from within.
Skin Moisture IQ is a science-led, 28 day smart supplement system uniquely formulated to hydrate dry and dehydrated skin. Containing five intelligent supplement capsules to deliver targeted doses of ingredients. Delivering a smooth, hydrated, supple and radiant skin for a head-to-toe treatment, face, arms, legs and scalp.
Skin Omegas compliment your topical moisturiser to smooth, plump and hydrate the skin. Pure skin hydration in a capsule.
Hypo21 is the perfect topical solution to soothe and support your skin. Made of pure Hypochlorous Technology (HOCl), this highly effective solution mimics are own natural defence system. HOCl is produced by white blood cells. It cleanses, purifies, and protects the skin. It is as gentle as water. The results on psoriasis have been amazing as well as other skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis, rosacea, acne, and spots.
Environ’s Derma-Lac Lotion and Body Oil is proven to make a real lasting difference to skin. Experience the replenishing, revitalising and moisturising benefits to the appearance of photo-aged, rough and dry skin with a powerful combination of vitamins A, C, E & AHA moisturisers to help your skin look and feel its healthiest and most beautiful.
A 360 approach is required to really treat the skin and provide long term results and a healthy skin. Addressing lifestyle, medical history along with medications is all part of the journey. Treating from the inside out will help you step out with confidence in skin that you love.
