Psoriasis: Understanding and Supporting Your Skin
Not all red, flaky skin is the same. For some, it’s simply dryness that needs a richer moisturiser.
For others, it’s eczema, where the skin barrier needs careful, consistent support.
And for some, it’s psoriasis – an autoimmune condition that can feel unpredictable and frustrating when it flares. Knowing the difference matters, because the way you care for your skin depends on understanding what it’s really trying to tell you.
What is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that causes patches of thickened, flaky skin which often form silvery scales. These patches are caused by an accelerated skin cell turnover rate.
- In healthy skin, cells are produced and replaced every 3–4 weeks.
- With psoriasis, this process speeds up dramatically to just 3–7 days.
The resulting build-up of skin cells is what creates the characteristic plaques and scales. Although the exact cause isn’t fully understood, psoriasis is thought to be linked to a fault in the immune system which triggers the skin to regenerate too quickly. Genetics and environmental factors also play a role, and many people find their psoriasis flares in response to triggers such as stress, illness, or changes in climate.
How Psoriasis Differs From Dry Skin and Eczema
- Dry Skin: Usually caused by environmental factors (weather, harsh cleansers) or a temporary lack of moisture in the skin barrier. Responds well to hydrating creams and barrier support.
- Eczema: A chronic condition where the skin barrier is impaired and becomes easily irritated or inflamed. Often linked to allergies or sensitivities.
- Psoriasis: An autoimmune-driven condition with a much faster skin cell turnover. Plaques are often thicker than eczema patches and can affect joints (psoriatic arthritis).
Managing Psoriasis: Our Approach at Elite Skin Studio
While psoriasis isn’t curable, the symptoms can be managed and soothed with a careful, supportive approach that prioritises calming inflammation and repairing the barrier.
1. Gentle, Barrier-Focused Treatment
We avoid anything harsh or overly exfoliating during a flare. Instead, we use Bespoke Clinical Facials designed to restore hydration and strengthen the skin barrier without irritation.
2. Dermalux LED Phototherapy
Our go-to for calming psoriasis in-clinic. Dermalux’s red and near-infrared wavelengths help to:
- Reduce inflammation
- Soothe redness and discomfort
- Support the skin’s natural healing response
3. Homecare Support
Daily, consistent care is vital. We recommend:
- Hypo21 (hypochlorous acid spray) to calm inflammation and prevent infection.
- Environ Super Moisturiser or AlumierMD Sensicalm to hydrate and support the barrier.
- Alumier Sheer Hydration or Clear Shield SPF to ensure your skin is protected everyday
- Supplements like Skin Omegas+ and Skin Clear Biome from Advanced Nutrition Programme to reduce systemic inflammation and strengthen skin from within.
4. Co-Management with Healthcare Professionals
We aren’t medical dermatologists and can’t diagnose psoriasis, but we can support your skin health once you have a confirmed diagnosis. If you’re struggling with symptoms, we always recommend speaking to your GP or dermatologist first to ensure the right medical guidance.
From there, we can work alongside their advice to help calm inflammation, strengthen your skin barrier, and create a personalised plan that makes your skin feel more comfortable day to day.
The Importance of a Personalised Plan
No two psoriasis cases are exactly alike, and flare triggers vary widely.
That’s why we begin with a Skin Analysis Consultation to understand your skin’s current state, your triggers, and your goals. From there, we create a plan that combines professional treatments, homecare, and lifestyle advice tailored to you.
Final Thoughts
Psoriasis can feel frustrating and overwhelming, but with the right care and support, flare-ups can be managed and skin comfort can be restored.
At Elite Skin Studio, our aim isn’t to offer a “quick fix,” but to help you build a long-term plan that supports your skin’s health and your confidence. If you’ve been struggling with sore, inflamed, or flaky skin and aren’t sure what’s causing it, we’re here to help you find answers.
Book your Skin Analysis Consultation and let’s take a closer look together.
