Cat - Cond - Psoriasis
Modified on Thu, 15 Oct at 10:20 AM
| 1. What causes scaly, flaky skin? Scaly, flaky skin happens when dead skin cells build up on the surface faster than they are shed. The most common cause of persistent scaling is psoriasis, but very dry skin and other skin conditions can cause it too. If scaling is widespread, sore or not improving, it is worth seeing a GP or dermatologist to find out what is behind it. |
| 2. What is psoriasis, and what does it look like? Psoriasis is a common long-term condition in which skin cells are made and shed much faster than normal, so they build up into thick, scaly patches called plaques. These often look red with silvery-white scale, or as darker patches on deeper skin tones, and appear on the elbows, knees, scalp and lower back. It is a medical condition, so a GP or dermatologist can confirm it. |
| 3. Can psoriasis be cured? Psoriasis cannot currently be cured, but for most people it can be managed well, and many have long spells of clear, comfortable skin between flare-ups. Moisturising regularly to keep scale soft, avoiding triggers, and using treatment from a GP or dermatologist where needed are the mainstays of keeping it under control. |
| 4. What is the difference between psoriasis and eczema? Both leave skin dry and can be itchy, but they differ. Psoriasis produces thick, well-defined plaques with silvery scale, caused by skin cells growing too quickly. Eczema tends to be itchier, less sharply defined, and linked to a weakened skin barrier. Because they can look similar, it is best to have a GP or dermatologist confirm which you have. |
| 5. What is the best moisturiser for scaly, psoriasis-prone skin? The best moisturisers for scaly, psoriasis-prone skin are rich and used regularly to keep scale soft so it lifts away, and are gentle, fragrance-free and ideally coal tar-free. The PSOregon Maintenance Cream is built for this, with Oregon Grape Root and naturally derived moisturisers to soften scaly skin and reduce the look of redness and flaking. |
| 6. What is Oregon Grape Root, and how is it used in PSOregon? Oregon Grape Root (Berberis Aquifolium) is a plant extract that has been studied for its role in the skin processes linked to excessive scaling and plaque build-up. It is the signature active across the whole PSOregon range, from the shampoo and conditioner to the cream and serum, chosen for skin and scalps prone to scaling. |
| 7. Is coal tar-free better for scaly, psoriasis-prone skin? Coal tar is a traditional option for scaly skin but can be messy, strong-smelling and can stain. PSOregon is coal tar-free, which makes it a gentler, milder-scented choice for everyday use. It is not a like-for-like replacement for a medical treatment, so if you need clinical treatment, speak to your GP or dermatologist. |
| 8. What triggers psoriasis flare-ups? Common triggers include stress, skin injury such as cuts or sunburn, infections such as a sore throat, cold and dry weather, alcohol, smoking, and certain medicines. Triggers vary from person to person, so it helps to notice your own and, alongside daily moisturising, avoid them where you can. |
| 9. Can I use PSOregon on my scalp? Yes. The PSOregon Anti-Plaque Shampoo and Scalp Conditioner are made for scalps prone to scaling, flaking and psoriasis, while the Maintenance Cream and Intensive Serum are for the body and face. Many people use the scalp and skin products together as one routine. |
| 10. Can I use PSOregon on my face? The Maintenance Cream is light enough for everyday use on the face. The Intensive Serum is more concentrated, so patch test first, introduce it gradually, and use it with care on facial skin. Avoid applying either to broken or bleeding skin. |
| 11. Can I use PSOregon alongside prescribed psoriasis treatment? Many people do. Do not stop a prescribed treatment without medical advice, and if you want to use PSOregon alongside it, check with your GP or pharmacist about how to layer them. Introduce one product at a time so you can see how your skin responds. |
| 12. Is PSOregon vegan and suitable for sensitive skin? The PSOregon skincare, the Maintenance Cream and Intensive Serum, is vegan and PETA Approved. The Scalp Conditioner is vegetarian, as it contains honey. All are coal tar-free, dermatologically tested and made without added perfume. As with any product for sensitive skin, patch test before first use. |
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