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Psoriasis On Knees

Psoriasis. Everything you need to know

Evidence-based treatments for all types of psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that causes red, scaly plaques on the skin. It can appear at any age and often varies in severity over time. While it’s not contagious, it can significantly impact physical comfort, confidence, and overall quality of life.

This hub brings together information about psoriasis types, common triggers, treatment options, and frequently asked questions. Dermatologists who consult at Northside Dermatology offer individualised care plans based on clinical presentation, lifestyle factors, and treatment goals.

Whether you’re newly diagnosed or seeking better control, this is your starting point for understanding and managing psoriasis.

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What is Psoriasis?
Treatments

What is Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a skin condition that causes the body to create new skin cells too quickly. As these cells accumulate on the surface of the skin, they become thick, dry, itchy patches called plaques. Many plaques become covered in a silvery-white coating called scale. Psoriasis can affect men and women of all ages and can appear anywhere on the body. Treatment focuses on controlling symptoms and reducing flares through lifestyle modifications, prescription medication and in-office procedures.

The definitive cause of psoriasis is not yet known, but a combination of genetic and environmental factors is likely at play. Some, though not all, patients who develop psoriasis have a family history of the condition. Others experience their first flare following a trigger such as infection or stress. It may be that a person inherits a genetic predisposition to psoriasis but does not show symptoms unless exposed to an environmental stimulus that activates the condition.

Psoriasis Elbow
Psoriasis Hairline

Explore your psoriasis treatment options

Although there is currently no known cure for psoriasis, it generally responds well to treatment and can be effectively managed. Schedule an appointment with a specialist dermatologists who consult at Northside Dermatology by calling us on 03 8582 8688.

Psoriasis Treatments

At Northside Dermatology, we take a holistic approach to psoriasis, combining prescription treatments, in-clinic therapies, and evidence-based skin care to manage your condition.

UVB Phototherapy Machine
UVB Phototherapy
Phototherapy uses controlled ultraviolet B (UVB) light to reduce inflammation and slow skin cell turnover in areas affected by psoriasis. It is typically delivered as narrowband UVB, targeting plaques while minimising damage to surrounding skin. Sessions are brief and performed under medical supervision.
Best for: Individuals with widespread, moderate to severe plaque psoriasis
Down time: Minimal; most patients can return to daily activities straight after treatment
Comments: Treatment is usually recommended two to three times per week over several weeks. Response varies based on psoriasis type, severity, and skin sensitivity.
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UVB Phototherapy For Psoriasis

UVB phototherapy is a safe, medically supervised light-based treatment used to manage chronic skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, and vitiligo. At Northside Dermatology, this treatment is tailored to your skin type and condition severity.

By reducing inflammation and slowing abnormal skin cell growth, UVB phototherapy can help control symptoms and improve skin health over time. Learn more about this evidence-based treatment option and whether it’s right for your skin.

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Frequently asked questions

What causes psoriasis?

The definitive cause of psoriasis is not yet known, but a combination of genetic and environmental factors is likely at play. Some, though not all, patients who develop psoriasis have a family history of the condition. Others experience their first flare following a trigger such as infection or stress. It may be that a person inherits a genetic predisposition to psoriasis but does not show symptoms unless exposed to an environmental stimulus that activates the condition.

What triggers psoriasis?

A variety of external factors can cause psoriasis to flare. Some of the most common triggers include:

  • Stress
  • Skin injury or infection
  • Sunburn
  • Alcohol consumption
  • Winter weather
  • Hormones
  • Certain medications

Flare-ups often occur following an earache, bronchitis, tonsillitis or a respiratory infection. If you experience a flare, speak to your doctor about a strep throat test, as a certain type of psoriasis often follows strep throat even if no symptoms are present.

What foods should I avoid when I have psoriasis?

Patients frequently ask about the effect their diet has on their skin. While a nutritious diet is recommended for general skin health, there are no clinical trials which clearly demonstrate that psoriasis benefits from restricting a particular food or food group. However, there may be a link between psoriasis and alcohol. Excessive alcohol consumption can trigger a flare, worsen the condition or interfere with the treatment of psoriasis.

What skin care advice can you give me for managing psoriasis?

At-home management plays a key role in treating psoriasis. Psoriatic skin is more vulnerable to damage than healthy skin and should be treated with care.

  • Use a gentle, soap-free cleanser
  • Regularly moisturise your skin
  • Avoid skin injury
  • Avoid picking at psoriasis or the scale, as this repetitive injury can worsen the condition
What medical treatment is available for psoriasis?

A specialist dermatologist can recommend an appropriate medical treatment approach based on the type of psoriasis, the area(s) of the body involved and the severity of the condition. Your treatment plan may include:

  • Topical creams/lotions/gels/sprays
  • Phototherapy with UV light to reduce inflammation and slow the production of skin cells
  • Intralesional steroid injections administered into the affected skin if the area involved is small
  • Oral vitamin A capsules or immunosuppressive tablets
  • Injection treatment with biologic agents if the severity of your psoriasis qualifies you for Medicare-subsidised treatment
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Your Psoriasis Solution Awaits

Living with psoriasis can be physically and emotionally challenging – but effective treatments are available. Dermatologists who consult at Northside Dermatology offer tailored management plans, which may include topical therapies, phototherapy, systemic medications, or advanced biologic treatments.  Supportive, evidence-based care tailored to your needs.

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Northside Dermatology operates in state-of-the-art facilities in Fitzroy North and Reservoir. All psoriasis treatments are managed by trained doctors or dermatologists, ensuring your skin is in the safest hands.

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