What
is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a recurrent skin condition that affects around 2% of the population in the UK. In simple terms, it is an acceleration of the usual replacement processes of the skin. Normally a skin cell matures in 21 to 28 days during its passage to the skin’s surface, where a constant invisible shedding of dead cells takes place. Psoriatic cells, however, are believed to turn over in two to three days.
Psoriasis is thought more likely to appear between the ages of 11 and 45 but can occur at any age. It appears as raised red patches of skin covered with silvery scales and can occur on any part of the body although elbows, knees and the scalp are the most common sites. There is often accompanying irritation. In areas where two skin surfaces come together, as in the natural skin creases and folds, Psoriasis can appear bright red and shiny rather than scaly.
Self Help
There are several common-sense ways to help
minimise Psoriasis flare-ups:
Where possible, avoid anything known to trigger
the condition, including stress.
Do not scratch or pick at the skin: it may bleed
and become infected.
After washing, pat the skin dry, don't irritate
it by rubbing vigorously with your towel.
Use plenty of moisturising cream to soothe and
soften the skin. This is especially effective
after washing.
Drink plenty of water, as dehydration has a
great affect on skin condition.
Sunlight helps some people with Psoriasis.
However,
avoid the sun if it causes pain and avoid getting
burnt at all costs.
Wear cotton clothes next to the skin and avoid
rough, synthetic materials.
Use a hypo-allergenic laundry product to wash
all clothes and other fabrics that come into
contact with your skin.
Avoid using makeup or perfumes, as these products
can often be major sources of irritation to
sensitive or damaged skin.
Always test any product that will come into
direct contact with your skin on a small patch
of skin before full use.
Further information
The Psoriasis Association
http://www.psoriasis-association.org.uk
0845 676 0076
