Psoriasis: what to do

Psoriasis is an inflammatory skin condition that can produce raised, red or darker patches covered with scale. It often follows a relapsing pattern, so skin may improve and flare again. Dryness, itching, cracking, peeling, redness and scaling can occur, but the appearance and discomfort vary by body area. Psoriasis is not contagious. A flare is not a sign that you have failed at skin care.

Use a plain, fragrance-free moisturiser regularly, especially after bathing, to soften scale and reduce water loss. Keep showers comfortably warm rather than hot, and pat skin dry. Avoid picking or forcefully removing scale, because injury can irritate the area. Follow the application instructions for any prescribed cream or ointment; treatment choice depends on the site, thickness and extent of psoriasis. Note possible triggers such as skin injury, illness, stress or a medicine change, and share the pattern with your clinician. If scalp, nail, genital or joint symptoms are present, mention them because they may change the assessment.

Arrange a dermatology review if a new rash is persistent, spreading, difficult to diagnose or not improving with your usual plan. Seek prompt care for rapidly worsening widespread redness, marked tenderness, fever, pus, extensive blistering or skin that is peeling over large areas. Painful, swollen or stiff joints also deserve medical attention, particularly when morning stiffness limits movement, because psoriasis can involve more than the skin.

Ask which psoriasis pattern you have, where each treatment should be applied, how long to use it, and what changes should prompt a review. You can also ask whether your symptoms suggest joint involvement and how to build a simple flare plan.