Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition where results in the immune system attacking healthy skin cells. The exact cause is unknown, but a combination of factors such as genetics, the immune system and environmental factors can all contribute. As with many skin disorders genetics has a key element, if psoriasis runs in the family then you are more likely to suffer. When we look at the immune system of sufferers, there is a dysfunction in which the immune systems triggers an abnormal response leading to the over production of skin cells, resulting in thick, red, scally patches of inflamed skin. If someone has a pre disposition to psoriasis there are trigger factors that may contribute to a flare up or worsening of the condition. Triger factors may include stress, infections, skin trauma or skin injury, certain medications, smoking, poor diet, excessive alcohol or hormonal change. Other factors which are classed as environmental such as cold or dry weather conditional or exposure to irritants on the skin can also aggravate psoriasis in some individuals.

Key components of psoriasis

1. An increased rate of the epidermal keratinisation (skin cell turnover) leading to the overproduction of skin cells with a scaly plaque presentation. In a healthy skin this process occurs over 28-70 days, where as with psoriasis this is accelerated to 3-9 days.
2. Abnormal dermal vascularity – The blood vessel supplying blood to the affected regions is dilated with the vessels knotted and tortuous. For treatments to be effective it is important that they target both key components of the condition for long term management of the condition. 3) Over production of T Cells. T cells are white blood cells that protect against infection and fight disease, In psoriasis, the immune system malfunction produces to many T-cells. These T-cells trigger the inflammation and excessive skin cell production.

Here at Staffordshire Skin & Laser clinic we have 2 main treatments that can be very effective for psoriasis. Following a consultation and assessment the best treatment option will be prescribed for you, this may be a single treatment or combination therapy depending on the severity of your condition.

1. Regenlite – The Regenlite Pulsed Dye Laser is a revolutionary non-invasive laser treatment that can successfully treat a variety of vascular and benign cutaneous lesions including psoriasis. Regenlite is a medical grade laser that emits a unique laser light SmartPulse™ from a hand-piece held directly above the skin. Regenlite has been engineered to emit the exact amount of light energy required to the targeted vessels at the right time allowing for maximum treatment outcomes, with little to no downtime so you can resume back to normal activities straight away. The laser is a visible yellow light laser that mimics damage in the skin that then stimulates the body’s natural wound healing response thus reducing inflammation and stimulating collagen. Regenlite treatment has been evaluated in numerous clinical studies using bio-chemical analysis, electron microscopy histology, ultrasound imaging to evidence its efficacy and safety.

Regenlite mode of action for Psoriasis

• The laser light will specifically target the dilated vessels in the dermal skin layer
• This will destroy the ecstatic vessels, thus reducing the blood supply to the psoriatic region
• Treatment will lead to a reduction of the T-cell infiltration. This in turn will reduce the overproduction of the skin cells and regulate the normal skin cell cycle. The number of treatments require will depend on the severity of the condition. This will be advised at consultation.

Dermalux phototherapy – Dermalux Tri-Wave MD light therapy is an award winning, clinically proven, non-invasive treatment for skin rejuvenation. This revolutionary treatment that uses the power of light to rejuvenate, repair and revitalise the skin. This CE Marked, medical device optimises and clinically combines 3 proven single wavelengths, red, blue, and near infrared (NIR) to treat a number of skin concerns or to optimise your skin health to another level with safe and effective results and no discomfort or downtime. LED light therapy is clinically proven to create a natural photo-biological within the skin to accelerate wound healing whilst having calming and anti inflammatory benefits. Dermalux is clinically proven to effectively minimise redness and inflammation as well as improving compromised, inflammatory and reactive skin conditions. It is very effective treatment for active acne, rosacea, dermatitis, pigmentation eczema, and psoriasis and strengthens sensitive skin allowing you to achieve your best skin ever. A course of treatment offers long-lasting health benefits for your skin, stimulating the skin’s natural rejuvenation and repair processes to promote instantly healthy looking skin, whilst resolving a range of skin concerns. This award winning treatment can also be used in combination with other treatments such as Regenlite for optimal management of Psoriasis.

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition and there is no known cure for it which means that following treatment it can return, treatment aims to offer relief and manage the symptoms during periods of flare up and keep periods of remission extended. To reduce the likelihood or prolong periods of remission this will involve avoiding triggers where possible including stress, harsh weather conditions, chemicals, detergents and any specific trigger factor to you. A good skin care regimen is fundamental to gently cleanse and keep the skin hydrated. Combined with good lifestyle choices, consuming a balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, staying hydrated, avoiding smoking, excessive alcohol, regular exercise and good stress and hormone management. When Psoriasis does flare up top up treatments can be taken to reduce and alleviate your symptoms much quicker.

ZO Principles of Skin Health Restoration specifically focus on restoring skin’s strength and optimizing cellular functions to provide the best treatment outcomes and achieve overall skin health restoration. Skin should be fortified to renew, protect and strengthen itself to maintain healthy skin for life. From correcting and management of ageing, sun damage, and skin concerns such as milia, keratosis pilaris, Eczema, psoriasis, dry skin, pigmentation, acne, rosacea, and protecting against future damage, ZO has your skin health covered with its clinically proven, medical skin care brand. Only the highest quality active ingredients like retinoids, Vitamin E, Vitamin C, Niacinamide, glycolic acid, lactic acid and more. Following a consultation a prescribed regimen that works to improve your skin concern alongside its texture, repairs your skin barrier and restores a healthy, youthful appearance to your skin will be prescribed.

Healthy skin starts on the inside, for optimal results this needs to be fed daily with skin specific nutrients. To help improve the appearance of compromised skin whilst supporting skin elasticity, firmness and collagen production experts recommend supporting the skin with supplements from the Advanced Nutritional Programme (ANP) supplement range alongside a healthy diet. Traditional skincare is turned inside out with the innovative, award-winning range of evidence-based skincare supplements. While topical skincare only treats 50% of the skin on the surface, ANP potent nutritional blends feed your skin from within for a proven, 100% skincare approach, your skin will certainly thank you for it. Following your consultation we can advised a complete nutritional approach to optimise your skin health.