At Kent Skin & Laser Clinic, our consultant dermatologist-led team can confirm your diagnosis, prescribe treatment and talk through further options if you need them. Based in Canterbury, we welcome patients from across Kent, including Whitstable, Herne Bay, Faversham, Ashford, Folkestone, Dover, Deal and the surrounding areas.
What is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis happens when the immune system speeds up the life cycle of skin cells, so they build up on the surface faster than they can shed. The result is thickened, scaly patches that can be itchy or sore. It is not infectious and cannot be passed on to other people.
Common types include:
- Plaque psoriasis: raised, red patches with silvery scale, often on the elbows, knees, lower back and scalp
- Guttate psoriasis: small, drop-shaped spots over the trunk and limbs
- Flexural psoriasis: smooth, red patches in skin folds
- Pustular psoriasis: small pus-filled spots, sometimes on the palms and soles
Psoriasis can also affect the scalp, where it may look like thick scale or stubborn dandruff, and the nails, causing pitting, ridges or lifting. Nail changes can resemble a fungal infection, so see our Fungal Nail Infection page too.
The cause is not fully understood, but genes and the immune system both play a part. Flare-ups can be triggered by stress, skin injury, infections, certain medicines, heavy alcohol intake and smoking. Triggers differ from person to person. If you are unsure whether a rash is psoriasis, see our Skin Rashes Treatment and Eczema Treatment pages, or book an assessment.
Our Approach to Psoriasis
Psoriasis is managed rather than cured. The aim is to calm symptoms, reduce flare-ups and help you feel more comfortable in your skin. Individual results vary.
Assessment
Your first step is a Dermatology Consultation, where we examine your skin, scalp and nails, ask about triggers and confirm the diagnosis.
Topical Treatments
Many people start with creams, ointments, gels or scalp preparations prescribed by the doctor, such as emollients, vitamin D-based treatments and steroid creams. Your doctor will explain how to use each one and when to review it.
Further Options
Further options include Biologics or JAK inhibitors and light treatments such as narrowband UVB. If these are considered appropriate, referrals to specialist psoriasis centres may be considered. If there are joint symptoms, referral to the rheumatologist is made.
Why Choose Kent Skin & Laser Clinic?
Psoriasis is a long-term condition, so a clear diagnosis and a doctor who knows your history matters. Patients choose us because we provide:
- Consultant dermatologist-led care
- Accurate diagnosis of psoriasis and similar-looking conditions
- Personalised plans for skin, scalp and nails
- Prescribed treatments explained clearly
- Honest advice about further options
- A CQC-registered clinic in central Canterbury
What Happens at the Appointment?
Your appointment is a Dermatology Consultation. During it, we will:
- Ask about your symptoms and possible triggers
- Review your medical history and current medicines
- Examine your skin, scalp and nails
- Confirm the diagnosis and recommend a treatment plan
If other options or a referral would help, we will talk them through with you.
Some people with psoriasis develop psoriatic arthritis. If you have joint pain, swelling or stiffness, especially morning stiffness, or swollen fingers or toes, please see a doctor promptly, even if your skin is calm. If your skin becomes widely red and you feel unwell, seek urgent medical advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can psoriasis be cured?
No. Psoriasis is a long-term condition and cannot be cured, but it can be managed. Treatment can ease symptoms and reduce flare-ups, and many people have times when their skin is clear or much calmer.
Is psoriasis contagious?
No. It cannot be passed on by touching or sharing towels. It is linked to the immune system and can run in families.
Is scalp psoriasis the same as dandruff?
Not exactly. Scalp psoriasis usually causes thicker, more defined scaly patches that can spread beyond the hairline. A doctor can tell the two apart and recommend a suitable treatment.
Can psoriasis affect my nails?
Yes. It can cause pitting, ridges, thickening or lifting of the nail. These changes can resemble a fungal infection, so it is worth having them checked before starting treatment.
What will the doctor prescribe?
This depends on your type of psoriasis and where it affects you. Many people begin with prescribed topical treatments. If these are not enough, we will discuss further options.
How do I know if I have psoriatic arthritis?
Only a doctor can diagnose it. Joint pain, swelling or stiffness, or swollen fingers or toes, are good reasons to be assessed promptly.
Book this treatment
Price
Consultant Dermatologist consultation from £300
Appointment
15 to 30 minutes, depending on consultation type
Downtime
None for the consultation
Fees vary by clinician and are confirmed at your consultation.
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