Psoriasis

A long-term skin condition causing red, scaly patches, often on elbows, knees and scalp. It isn't contagious.

SkinAutoimmuneLast updated: 21 October 2026

Quick Summary

Primary Symptoms

Raised red or dark patches covered with silvery scales, itching, cracked skin, nail changes and sometimes joint pain.

Common Treatments

Moisturisers, medicated creams, light therapy, tablets and biological medicines for severe psoriasis.

Risk Factors

Family history, stress, infections, smoking, alcohol, obesity and some medicines.

OverviewSymptomsCausesTreatmentFAQ

Overview

In psoriasis, skin cells are made too quickly and build up into thick patches. It's driven by the immune system.

It comes and goes. Some people develop psoriatic arthritis, so joint pain should be reported.

Symptoms

Scaly patches

On elbows, knees, scalp and lower back.

Itching

And soreness.

Nail changes

Pitting and thickening.

Joint pain

Possible psoriatic arthritis.

Causes & Risk Factors

Biological Causes

An immune-driven speeding up of skin cell turnover in genetically prone people.

Key Risk Factors

  • Family history Psoriasis runs in families.
  • Triggers Stress, infections and skin injury.
  • Lifestyle Smoking, alcohol and obesity.

Management & Treatment

01. Topical treatments

Moisturisers, steroid creams and vitamin D creams.

02. Phototherapy

Controlled light treatment.

03. Systemic treatment

Methotrexate, other tablets or biologics for severe cases.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is psoriasis contagious?
No.
Can it be cured?
Not yet, but it can be well controlled.

Sources and further reading

Last updated 21 October 2026. For more detail, see these trusted health organisations.