Plaque psoriasis is the most common form of psoriasis and it can be a challenging condition to live with at times. This quick guide will cover some of the basics of plaque psoriasis, from what it is and what causes it, to how you can manage it effectively and naturally.

Plaque psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that can cause raised, scaly, red patches to form on the skin. As a common form of psoriasis, it affects millions of people. Plaque psoriasis can occur at any age but most often starts in adulthood. Psoriasis isn’t a contagious skin condition and cannot be passed on from person to person.

The most common symptoms of plaque psoriasis are:

Plaques

This type of psoriasis is characterised by the appearance of raised, red, scaly patches (known as plaques) that are often itchy or sore. Plaques can occur anywhere on the body but most often appear on the scalp, knees, elbows, and lower back.

Thickened, pitted, or ridged nails

Psoriasis can also affect the nails, causing them to become yellow-brown, pitted, or crumbly.

Itchiness

It’s common to experience an itching or burning sensation in the affected areas. Plaques on the skin can be very itchy, especially when new skin cells are forming quickly.

Flaking of the skin

As plaques mature, the skin cells can flake off. This can lead to dandruff if the flakes are from the scalp.

Cracked skin

Extremely dry, cracked skin can be another symptom of plaque psoriasis. The dryness and cracking can sometimes lead to bleeding around the affected areas.

Plaque psoriasis is caused by an overactive immune system. Typically, the immune system protects the body from infection and disease by attacking bacteria and viruses. In people with plaque psoriasis, the immune system mistakes healthy skin cells and starts to attack them. This causes the skin cells to grow too quickly, leading to the formation of plaques. If you’re dealing with plaque psoriasis, it’s essential to keep in mind that there are natural ways to help manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. Hanna’s best-selling books, Radiant and Skin Healing Expert can give you some insight into her method for natural healing protocol.

Here’s a quick guide of simple things you can do to deal with your plaque psoriasis naturally.

Moisturising the skin is important even when you don’t have psoriasis, but it’s essential if you do. Applying moisturisers on a regular basis can help to reduce the dryness, itching and cracking associated with plaque psoriasis. Also, look for emollient-rich products that will hydrate the skin. Our Skin Saviour Balm and Intensive Night Balms are incredibly nourishing and provide intense hydration to plaque psoriasis patches.

It’s often beneficial to apply creams and oils after showering or bathing while the skin is still damp. Our shower oil is designed to be used on the entire body. We've created this natural formula for sensitive skin that will help lock in moisture and soothe your areas of plaque psoriasis.

Hanna’s natural healing protocol focuses on healing from within because food plays a significant role in skin health. A diet rich in whole foods, healthy fats, vitamins and minerals can help to reduce inflammation and nourish the skin from within. By contrast, a diet high in sugar, processed foods and unhealthy fats can worsen plaque psoriasis symptoms and overall skin health.

Our multi-strain biotic can help to restore a healthy gut, which is essential for good skin. In addition, the probiotic strains in our formula can help to reduce inflammation, promoting a healthier immune system. Improving immunity is crucial with plaque psoriasis as an overactive immune system can lead to the formation of plaques.

Certain things can trigger plaque psoriasis or worsen existing symptoms and they tend to be environmental. That’s why it’s important to be aware of your triggers and do your best to avoid them. Everyone is affected differently, so some find it helpful to use a journal to track what causes their flare-ups.

While it’s not exhaustive, this short guide to plaque psoriasis can help you get started on your journey to managing your symptoms naturally. If you’d like to learn more about Hanna’s approach and how it can help you, don’t hesitate to get in touch at hello@hannasillitoe.com. We’re always happy to chat!