London Psoriasis Treatment

Medically Reviewed by Doctor Björn Thomas, GMC: 7084005

We offer specialist psoriasis treatment. Located on Harley Street, at One Welbeck and The Shard, the Thomas Clinic provides expert dermatologist-led care, through discreet consultations and personalised treatment plans.

Beyond the skin itself, we understand that psoriasis can deeply affect your emotional well-being, confidence, social life, and comfort, significantly disrupting daily life. 60% of patients also experience disrupted sleep due to itch and discomfort. Our experienced dermatologists understand your condition’s personal impact, creating tailored treatment plans that specifically address your needs.

This article outlines types of psoriasis, available treatments, and our compassionate clinical approach. Our goal is to empower you with clarity and confidence, helping you regain control.

Specialist Psoriasis Treatment

We offer specialist psoriasis treatment. Located on Harley Street, at One Welbeck and The Shard, the Thomas Clinic provides expert dermatologist-led care, through discreet consultations and personalised treatment plans.

Beyond the skin itself, we understand that psoriasis can deeply affect your emotional well-being, confidence, social life, and comfort, significantly disrupting daily life. 60% of patients also experience disrupted sleep due to itch and discomfort. Our experienced dermatologists understand your condition’s personal impact, creating tailored treatment plans that specifically address your needs.

This article outlines types of psoriasis, available treatments, and our compassionate clinical approach. Our goal is to empower you with clarity and confidence, helping you regain control.

Speak to Our Skin Experts Today

Dr Bjorn Thomas

Dr Bjorn Thomas is a consultant dermatologist with specialist experience in psoriasis management and is available to see patients at Harley Street, One Welbeck and at HCA The Shard. Having previously held a senior clinical role at Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, Dr Thomas brings considerable specialist experience to his Harley Street practice.

Known for his thoughtful, caring and precise approach, Dr Thomas ensures every patient feels informed, comfortable, and fully supported. He creates personalised psoriasis treatment plans that prioritise effectiveness and patient comfort. His comprehensive care includes regular monitoring, clear patient education, and collaboration with other specialists as needed. Under his guidance, you can confidently manage your psoriasis, significantly enhancing your skin health and overall quality of life.

What does Psoriasis Treatment entail?

Psoriasis is a chronic but highly manageable condition with professional dermatological care. At the Thomas Clinic, we provide tailored treatment plans primarily involving topical creams and systemic medications. Each treatment effectively reduces inflammation, slows excessive skin cell growth, and improves comfort and appearance.

Most individuals have mild to moderate psoriasis, meaning topical creams or foams are often sufficient for effective control. Our dermatologists carefully choose therapies based on your past experiences, preferences, and practical considerations, ensuring lasting relief and an enhanced quality of life.

Psoriasis Creams

Topical treatments (creams, ointments, or gels applied directly to the skin) are usually the first line of care for mild to moderate psoriasis as they provide targeted relief from inflammation, scaling, and itching. Choosing the right formulation is important; ointments are effective but sticky, whereas gels, creams, and foams are often preferred as they are easy to use.

• Topical Corticosteroids: These anti-inflammatory creams reduce redness, swelling, and itchiness. Mild steroids (e.g., hydrocortisone) suit sensitive areas such as the face and skin folds, while stronger formulations (e.g., clobetasol) effectively treat thick plaques on elbows or knees.
• Vitamin D Analogues: Synthetic vitamin D creams (calcipotriol, calcitriol) normalise skin cell growth and reduce scaling. Often combined with steroids, they’re particularly effective for plaque and scalp psoriasis, with gentler options available for sensitive areas.
• Topical Calcineurin Inhibitors: These steroid free anti-inflammatories also can reduce redness, swelling and itching. With an effect not as potent as the corticosteroids, they are suitable for sensitive sites and those who would prefer to minimise their steroid use.
• Emollients (Moisturisers): Regular moisturiser use reduces dryness, scaling, and itching, enhances comfort, and boosts the effectiveness of medicated creams by softening scales.
• Coal Tar: Traditionally used in creams or shampoos, coal tar slows skin cell growth, reducing scaling and inflammation. It’s beneficial for stubborn plaques and scalp psoriasis but typically avoided on sensitive facial or genital areas. Today, coal tar treatments are less commonly used than in the past but coal tar lotions, like Exorex, can be a good steroid-free option 

If topical treatments are ineffective, unsuitable, or not well-tolerated, systemic medications or alternative treatments should be considered.

At the Thomas Clinic, we carefully tailor topical therapies to your individual needs, ensuring effective symptom control and improved skin health.

Phototherapy

Phototherapy, or light therapy, uses controlled ultraviolet (UV) light exposure to manage psoriasis by reducing inflammation and slowing skin cell turnover. While highly effective, phototherapy sessions can be time-consuming and may not always fit conveniently into a busy schedule.

• Narrowband UVB (NB-UVB):
  This common method involves short, regular sessions (typically 2–3 times weekly), effectively treating plaque, guttate, and scalp psoriasis. NB-UVB often delivers significant improvement lasting several months, with minimal side effects such as mild redness or temporary dryness.
• PUVA (Psoralen + UVA):
  PUVA combines a medication (psoralen) with UVA light to clear severe or resistant psoriasis, particularly thick plaques or psoriasis affecting the palms and soles. However, PUVA requires careful monitoring and is now less commonly used due to an increased risk of skin cancer. It remains particularly beneficial for psoriasis involving the palms and soles.

Under expert dermatological supervision, phototherapy can safely deliver lasting symptom relief and significantly enhance quality of life.

Systemic Medication

Systemic medications, acting throughout your body, are recommended for moderate-to-severe psoriasis or cases unresponsive to topical treatments or phototherapy. These medications regulate the immune response and slow excessive skin cell turnover, significantly reducing symptoms.

• Methotrexate:
  Taken weekly as tablets or injections, methotrexate effectively reduces inflammation and skin cell growth, particularly helpful if you have psoriatic arthritis. Regular blood tests ensure liver health and stable blood counts. Pregnancy precautions are required.
• Cyclosporine (Ciclosporin):
  Quickly controls severe psoriasis by suppressing immune activity. Usually prescribed for short-term use (3–6 months), it requires careful monitoring of kidney function and blood pressure.
• Oral Retinoids (Acitretin):
  Derived from vitamin A, acitretin normalises skin cell production without direct immune suppression. Especially beneficial for pustular psoriasis or plaques affecting hands and feet. Regular liver monitoring and strict pregnancy precautions are necessary.
• Biologics (injections):
  These protein-based treatments, administered via injection or infusion, target specific immune pathways, rapidly and significantly improving moderate-to-severe psoriasis and transforming psoriasis therapy for many patients. Convenient dosing schedules are typical, but initial screening and periodic safety checks are essential. Examples include Etanercept, Adalimumab, Ustekinumab, Secukinumab, Ixekizumab, Brodalumab, Guselkumab, Risankizumab and Bimekizumab.
• Small molecules (tablets):
  • Apremilast: An oral medication offering moderate symptom relief by reducing inflammation, without frequent monitoring, which is ideal if you prefer oral therapy over injections.
  • Deucravacitinib: A newer oral medicine that blocks TYK2 has also proven helpful in treating moderate-to-severe psoriasis

At the Thomas Clinic, our dermatologists personalise systemic treatments to match your individual needs, ensuring optimal symptom control, safety, and quality of life..

What types of Psoriasis are there?

Plaque Psoriasis

Plaque psoriasis is the most common type, affecting around 80–90% of psoriasis patients. It appears as raised, itchy skin patches covered with silvery scales, typically on elbows, knees, lower back, and scalp, though plaques can develop anywhere. On darker skin, plaques may look thicker, darker, purplish, or greyish.

Symptoms range from mild patches to extensive affected areas, causing intense itching, discomfort, and sometimes pain. Severe plaques may crack and bleed, particularly near joints or sensitive skin. The visibility of plaques can significantly affect your daily life, causing embarrassment, anxiety, and social stress.

With personalised, specialist dermatological care, plaque psoriasis can be effectively managed, significantly improving your comfort, confidence, and overall quality of life.

Guttate Psoriasis

Guttate psoriasis affects about 8% of psoriasis patients, presenting as small, water-drop-shaped lesions, typically salmon-pink or red with fine scales. These spots often appear suddenly on the trunk, arms, legs, and occasionally the face or scalp.

Commonly triggered by infections such as strep throat, guttate psoriasis frequently affects children and young adults. It usually resolves within weeks or months, particularly after treating the underlying infection. For some, however, it may recur or evolve into chronic plaque psoriasis.

With timely, specialist care, guttate psoriasis can be effectively managed, improving skin clarity and overall comfort.

Scalp Psoriasis

Scalp psoriasis affects around half of psoriasis patients, often appearing first or exclusively on the scalp. It causes red, raised patches with silvery scales, sometimes spreading onto the forehead, neck, or around the ears. On darker skin, patches may look purplish or brown.

Common symptoms include intense itching, flaking resembling dandruff, dryness, and occasional soreness or bleeding. Temporary hair loss can occur from scratching or inflammation, though hair typically regrows once managed.

Specialised shampoos or scalp treatments with ingredients like tar, salicylic acid, or steroids effectively control symptoms. With expert dermatological care, scalp psoriasis can be effectively managed, significantly improving comfort, appearance, and quality of life.

Flexural Psoriasis

Flexural (inverse) psoriasis affects around 25% of psoriasis patients, primarily occurring in skin folds like the underarms, groin, under the breasts, buttocks, and genital areas. Unlike other types, it presents as smooth, shiny patches of deep-red or darkened skin without scales, due to moisture and friction.

Common symptoms include itching, soreness, and irritation, intensified by sweat and skin-to-skin friction. This discomfort can significantly affect daily activities, relationships, and emotional well-being.

With professional dermatological care, inverse psoriasis can be effectively managed, relieving discomfort and significantly improving quality of life and personal confidence.

Discuss Your Treatment Options with our team

Psoriasis is a chronic condition with cycles of flare-ups and remission. While no permanent cure currently exists, highly effective treatments can significantly reduce symptoms and maintain long periods of clear skin.

Our dermatologists create tailored treatment plans based on the psoriasis type, severity, affected areas, and lifestyle. Open, honest discussions about your experiences help us manage your symptoms effectively, improving your daily comfort.

We understand that psoriasis can have both emotional and social impact, and we handle every consultation with professionalism, discretion, and empathy. Our goal is to heal your skin and restore your well-being and confidence.

Contact us by phone or email to schedule a private psoriasis consultation at one of our London locations (Harley Street, One Welbeck, The Shard). We’re here to help you live confidently and comfortably.

Book a Private Consultation Today

Take the first step towards clear, smooth skin and renewed confidence with a private consultation at the Thomas Clinic on Harley Street. Our discreet, professional consultations offer direct access to advanced wart and verruca treatments.

A private consultation provides personalised, dermatologist-led care without referrals or long waiting lists. Whether your concerns are cosmetic, medical, or both, our specialists validate your experience with empathy and understanding, creating a clear, effective plan tailored specifically for you.

Don’t let warts impact your daily life or emotional well-being any longer. Book your private consultation today and experience the relief and confidence of expert care.

Psoriasis FAQs

What does psoriasis look like?

Psoriasis typically appears as raised, red or darker patches covered with silvery-white scales, varying slightly by skin tone and type:

• Plaque psoriasis (most common): Raised red or purplish patches, usually on elbows, knees, lower back, and scalp.
• Guttate psoriasis: Small, drop-shaped reddish or salmon-pink spots on trunk, arms, legs, or face.
• Scalp psoriasis: Reddish, scaly scalp patches extending beyond the hairline, often resembling dandruff.
• Flexural (inverse) psoriasis: Smooth, deep-red or darkened patches without scales, typically in skin folds (underarms, groin).
• Pustular psoriasis: Clearly defined, pus-filled blisters surrounded by redness.
• Erythrodermic psoriasis (rare and severe): Widespread redness with intense scaling, requiring immediate medical attention.
• Nail psoriasis: Changes to fingernails and toenails, including pitting, discolouration, thickening, or separation from the nail bed.

Understanding your psoriasis type is key, and our specialists provide personalised treatment and clear guidance.

How might psoriasis affect me?

Psoriasis can impact your life in several significant ways:

• Physical Discomfort: Persistent itching, burning, and painful, cracked skin can disrupt sleep and everyday activities. Some people develop psoriatic arthritis, causing joint inflammation, stiffness, and pain, often affecting fingers, lower back, feet, and heels. Early arthritis treatment is essential to prevent permanent joint damage.
• Emotional Well-being: The visible nature of psoriasis may lead to embarrassment, anxiety, and lower self-esteem, significantly affecting mental health.
• Social Relationships: Misunderstandings about psoriasis being contagious can cause social withdrawal and difficulties with intimacy, particularly when sensitive areas are involved.
• Cardiovascular Health: Psoriasis can also be associated with increased cardiovascular risk. Regular checks of blood pressure, cholesterol, and other cardiovascular factors are recommended for effective management.

At the Thomas Clinic, our dermatologists offer tailored care addressing physical symptoms, emotional challenges, and associated health concerns, helping you regain comfort, confidence, and overall quality of life.

Is it possible to live well with psoriasis?

Absolutely. While psoriasis doesn’t currently have a permanent cure, modern treatments are highly effective at managing symptoms, reducing flare-ups, and providing long-lasting, clear skin. By recognising your personal triggers, practising good skincare, managing stress, and following a tailored treatment plan, most people with psoriasis lead active, fulfilling lives.

Is psoriasis genetic?

Yes, genetics plays a significant role in psoriasis. Around one-third of people with psoriasis have a close relative (parent or sibling) who also has the condition, indicating a strong familial link. Researchers have identified specific genes associated with psoriasis, but having these genes alone doesn’t always cause the condition.

Usually, psoriasis develops due to a combination of genetic susceptibility and environmental triggers, such as stress or infections. Understanding these triggers can help manage the condition more effectively, even though the genetic aspect itself can’t be changed.

What triggers psoriasis?

Psoriasis flare-ups can be triggered by various environmental and lifestyle factors, including:

• Stress: High stress significantly increases flare-ups, making stress management essential.
• Infections: Bacterial infections (especially strep throat, commonly linked to guttate psoriasis) and fungal infections often trigger or worsen symptoms.
• Medications: Certain medications, including lithium, beta-blockers, antimalarials, and rapid steroid withdrawal, may provoke psoriasis.
• Weather: Cold, dry climates tend to exacerbate symptoms, while moderate sunlight can be beneficial. Sunburns, however, often trigger flare-ups.
• Skin Injuries: Cuts, scratches, burns, insect bites, or tattoos can induce new psoriasis lesions (known as the Koebner phenomenon).
• Smoking and Alcohol: Tobacco and alcohol consumption frequently worsen psoriasis symptoms.
• Diet: A balanced, healthy diet may help reduce inflammation and symptom severity.

Our aim is to help identify your personal triggers and provide professional guidance that will effectively manage and minimise psoriasis flare-ups.

Is psoriasis contagious?

No, psoriasis is not contagious. It’s an immune-mediated condition caused by internal processes within the body, not germs or infection. You cannot catch psoriasis from touching or being near someone who has it. Although psoriasis patches might look concerning, they pose absolutely no risk to others. Educating family and friends that psoriasis is autoimmune and non-infectious helps clear misunderstandings and reduces social discomfort.

Is psoriasis 100% curable?

Psoriasis currently has no permanent cure. It’s a chronic, lifelong, immune-mediated condition with cycles of flare-ups and remission. However, it’s highly manageable. Modern treatments effectively control symptoms, significantly reduce flare-ups, and maintain long periods of clear skin. With personalised care and regular management, psoriasis can become a controlled part of your life rather than a major concern.

What is the very best treatment for psoriasis?

There’s no single “best” psoriasis treatment. Effective care varies based on your psoriasis type, severity, affected areas, health, and lifestyle. Often, combining or rotating treatments provides optimal results. At the Thomas Clinic, our dermatologists personalise your treatment plan and regularly adjust it, ensuring maximum symptom relief, safety, and improved quality of life.

Speak to the Thomas Clinic Today

Are you ready to discuss your Psoriasis with a Dermatology expert? Reach out to the Thomas Clinic today to arrange a consultation.