Expert debunks psoriasis myths

From uk.news.yahoo.com

Psoriasis is a condition that causes dry, flaky red patches of skin that are covered in silver scales.

Although psoriasis is a relatively common condition, affecting around 1 in 50 people in the U.K., there is a lot of misinformation surrounding it, particularly on social media.

Ali Hedley, Medical and Professional Affairs Manager from Epaderm, has debunked some of the most common psoriasis myths.

"Psoriasis is just dry skin"

People often think that psoriasis is just dry skin, but it is actually a long-term skin condition.

"Contrary to popular belief, psoriasis is a chronic skin condition, not just dryness," Ali explains. "Our skin naturally sheds and produces new skin cells. For those with 'normal' skin, this takes place every 3-4 weeks and for those with psoriasis this takes place every 3-7 days, causing psoriasis patches to appear."

"Psoriasis looks like eczema"

The two skin conditions are often confused, but they are very different.

"Distinguishing itself from eczema, psoriasis exhibits thicker, more raised, and redder patches," Ali says. "Eczema generally targets the folds and creases of your body (behind the knees, between the elbows, on the neck), psoriasis often targets the surface of the skin (scalp, elbows, outer knees)."

"Psoriasis is contagious"

Although much is still unknown about the skin condition, it is known that it is not contagious.

"Psoriasis is not contagious. There is still research to be done to understand the cause of psoriasis but it does tend to run in families," the expert insists. "People with the psoriasis gene will find many triggers that cause a flare-up, most commonly infection, skin injuries, stress, and hormonal changes."

"Psoriasis can be cured"

Although it can be treated, psoriasis cannot be cured.

"While there's no cure for psoriasis, there are lots of simple and effective treatments to make skin more comfortable including emollients and moisturisers," Ali explains. "Epaderm Ointment provides practical relief during flare-ups. The over-the-counter emollient, with no fragrance and just three ingredients, is an effective option for moisturising and softening the skin."

"Only topical treatments can help with psoriasis"

There are a number of things you can do to treat your psoriasis, including taking baths.

"Many people believe that creams, moisturisers and ointments are the only options to treat psoriasis but there are other options," Ali states. "As long as the water isn't too hot, baths are a great way to ease the symptoms of psoriasis. Staying active, maintaining a balanced diet, and substituting your traditional hand soaps for the Epaderm Cream are various ways to support skin health beyond topical treatments."

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