Cadogan Clinic is a leading specialist cosmetic surgery clinic based in the heart of London. We’re home to the leading specialists in breast augmentation, liposuction, and a comprehensive range of face, breast and body treatments.
View all Cosmetic SurgeryCadogan Clinic is a leading specialist cosmetic surgery clinic based in the heart of London. We’re home to the leading specialists in breast augmentation, liposuction, and a comprehensive range of face, breast and body treatments.
Cadogan Clinic offers a full range of cosmetic breast surgery to help make the changes you want to your breasts under the guidance of the best surgeons in the UK.
Breast enlargement and augmentation aims to cosmetically enhance the size and shape of your breasts.
Breast implants should be replaced every 10-15 years, or sooner if you start to notice changes.
A breast lift helps to lift sagging or low-hanging breasts for a more youthful appearance.
Breast reconstruction helps those after a mastectomy safely regain natural-looking breasts.
Breast reduction removes tissue to improve the size, weight, and appearance of large breasts.
Natural breast enlargement uses your own body's fat tissues to add volume to your breasts.
Nipple reduction address the size, shape, and overall appearance of enlarged nipples.
Cadogan Clinic offers a range of cosmetic surgery to help make the changes you want to your body under the guidance of the very best surgeons in the UK.
An arm reduction, or arm lift, lifts and removes sagging skin or 'bingo wings' under the arm.
A buttock lift helps to lift, tighten, and reduce loose skin on the buttocks and upper thighs.
A Brazilian butt lift contours and enhances the shape of your buttocks for an hourglass silhouette.
Liposuction is a surgical procedure to remove unwanted pockets of fat on the body and face.
Laser liposuction surgically removes fat for instant results and tightens the skin post-procedure.
The Mummy Makeover uses bespoke cosmetic surgeries for tummy, breasts, and thighs after childbirth.
A thigh lift is a surgical procedure to lift and tighten loose, sagging skin on the upper legs.
An abdominoplasty, or tummy tuck, tightens excessive or loose skin on your tummy and torso.
An umbilicoplasty aims to surgically improve the cosmetic appearance of your belly button.
Cosmetic and corrective hand surgery treats concerns such as trigger finger.
Cosmetic foot surgery can aim to improve both health and cosmetic concerns with your feet.
Cellulaze is a procedure that uses laser treatments to treat the appearance of cellulite.
Hernia surgery is a corrective surgery to remove the uncomfortable protrusion of a hernia lump.
A mons lift is a surgery that lifts the skin on a woman's pelvic region (the mons pubis).
Scar revision and reduction can surgically or non-surgically improve the appearance of a scar.
Fat transfer, also referred to as fat grafting and lipofilling, has become widely accepted as the optimal means of soft-tissue filling in all areas of the body, including the face, breasts, hands and buttocks
Fat transfer uses natural fat deposits from your body to add volume to other areas.
Fat transfer for breasts allows for natural breast enlargement by using your own fat stores.
Fat transfer for the face uses natural fat reserves to enhance your cheeks and facial features.
Cadogan Clinic offers a wide range of facial cosmetic surgery procedures to help you make the changes you want, under the guidance of the very best surgeons.
An eyebrow lift surgically lifts a drooping eyebrow to reduce a 'tired eyes' appearance.
Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery)
Eyelid reduction, or blepharoplasty, removes loose skin and fat pockets around the eyes.
Chin liposuction surgically removes stubborn reserves of excess fat on the chin and jawline.
Chin Augmentation (Chin Implants)
Chin augmentation uses implants to add structure and definition to the lower face.
Earlobe repair and reduction reshapes scarred, stretched, or enlarged earlobes.
A facelift surgically lifts loose, sagging, and ageing skin for a more youthful appearance.
A lip lift surgically creates loft and structure for your lips, creating a feminine lip border.
A mini facelift targets the lower face, jawline, and neck for slightly less invasive rejuvenation.
A neck lift targets loose and sagging skin on the neck and jawline for a youthful appearance.
A nose tip lift aims to improve your profile by lifting the tip of a downturned nose.
Ear reshaping surgery can include ear pinning, scar reduction, earlobe correction, and more.
Gender dysphoria is a term used to describe how an individual feels a strong sense of disassociation between their gender identity and biological sex.
FTM top surgery is a liberating and gender-affirming surgery for trans men.
MTF top surgery is a gender-affirming breast enlargement surgery for trans women.
Cadogan Clinic provides a wide range of cosmetic gynaecological surgery procedures performed by a multi-disciplinary team of the best surgeons in the UK.
Labiaplasty reduces the size and shape of the labia to aid confidence in the cosmetic appearance.
Vaginal reconstruction and rejuvenation are bespoke and intimate surgeries for women.
Vaginal Tightening (Vaginoplasty)
Vaginoplasty is a reconstructive surgery to strengthen the pelvic floor and vaginal muscles.
For many people, losing weight can be achieved by eating healthily and taking regular exercise. However, sometimes weight loss surgery, also known as bariatric surgery, may be necessary.
Gastric band surgery uses a sillicone band to compress the stomach, making you feel fuller quicker.
Gastric bypass surgery is a major surgery to aid in weight loss where exercise and diet have failed.
A gastric balloon of saline is placed in the stomach, filling a space otherwise taken by food.
Gastric sleeve surgery reduces the size of the stomach significantly so it stores less food.
Cadogan Clinic provides both female and male cosmetic surgery. Almost all of our procedures are suitable for men as well as women.
Tummy tuck for men, or abdominoplasty, targets loose and sagging skin on the lower abdomen.
Men's facelift surgery helps to surgically reduce the signs of ageing on a man's face and jaw.
Hair transplant surgery uses your own follicles to treat the appearance of hair loss and thinning.
Liposuction for men targets stubborn fat pockets on the male body resistant to lifestyle changes.
Remove excess fat and male breast tissue to improve the cosmetic appearance of your chest.
Rhinoplasty for men aids the cosmetic appearance of a man's nose, septum, and/or bridge.
The Cadogan Clinic Surgical Aftercare and Scar Management Programmes have been developed to optimise patient well-being, recovery and scar management.
Cadogan Clinic is a leading non surgical cosmetic clinic based in the heart of London. We’re home to some of the leading injectable, filler and laser specialists, and are experts in the anti-ageing and skin rejuvenation process.
View all Non-SurgicalCadogan Clinic is a leading non surgical cosmetic clinic based in the heart of London. We’re home to some of the leading injectable, filler and laser specialists, and are experts in the anti-ageing and skin rejuvenation process.
There are many factors which contribute to ageing skin and when deciding on a treatment solution, these are important to consider.
Anti-ageing injectables relax the muscles in the face to lessen the appearance of wrinkles.
Dermal fillers add volume, definition, and structure to the lips, cheeks, jaw, and more.
Lip filler is a non-surgical injectable treatment to plump, shape, and define the lips.
The non-surgical facelift, or liquid facelift, using dermal filler in the face to define and lift.
Non-surgical rhinoplasty uses dermal filler to non-surgically augment the shape of the nose.
Sculptra is an injectable treatment that stimulates collagen growth for naturally refreshed skin.
Tear trough filler uses dermal filler to reawaken tired or sunken looking under-eyes.
At the Cadogan Clinic, we offer a comprehensive range of non-surgical cosmetic treatments, to refresh and rejuvenate your appearance.
Microneedling lightly promotes the growth of fresh skin cells and collagen for a youthful glow.
Non-Surgical Eyelid Reduction (Plexr)
Non-surgical eyelid reduction uses targeted lasers to safely reduce and remove eyelid fat.
Cadogan Clinic is a leading dermatology clinic based in the heart of London. We’re home to some of the leading acne, eczema and rosacea specialists, and are experts in the mole and skin cancer diagnosis and removal process.
View all DermatologyCadogan Clinic is a leading dermatology clinic based in the heart of London. We’re home to some of the leading acne, eczema and rosacea specialists, and are experts in the mole and skin cancer diagnosis and removal process.
Skin is incredibly important to your health and your appearance. The Cadogan Clinic has one of the largest and experienced teams of consultant dermatologists.
Treat active acne and problematic skin to smooth blemishes, enlarged pores, and congestion.
Treat and soothe painful bacterial skin infections to regain comfort in your skin.
Combat dermatitis, skin irritation, and inflammation with clinical treatments.
Eczema is a chronic skin disorder which can be soothed with a dermatological treatment plan.
Diagnose the cause of excess hair growth with your dermatologist and begin your treatment plan.
Identify the cause of hair loss before opting for a hair transplant or other options suited to you.
Hyperhidrosis (Excessive Sweating)
Treat the symptoms of hyperhidrosis, or excessive sweating, to feel liberated and comfortable.
Remove hard, harmless, yet unwanted white bumps in your skin with milia removal.
Find diagnoses and treatments for your children with our paediatric dermatologists.
Treat hyperpigmentation and sun damaged skin for clearer, more youthful, and even-toned skin.
Identify what stimulates your psoriasis and soothe it with a patient-centred treatment plan.
Manage painful rosacea flare-ups with effective dermatological treatments and lifestyle changes.
Identify skin allergens with a dermatological patch test and learn how to manage them.
Your skin health MOT provides an annual full-body health assessment to keep you safe and healthy.
Remove unsightly and uncomfortable verrucae on your feet with targeted treatments.
We are all becoming increasingly aware of the risks posed by sun damage to the skin, as well as the need to protect our skin in day-to-day life.
Safely and non-surgically remove unwanted skin lesions such as warts with cryotherapy.
Remove painful and unsightly cysts on your face and body with either cryotherapy or excision.
Identify and remove unwanted lipomas and fatty tumours with minor localised excisions.
Remove non-melanoma skin cancer and moles with precision Mohs surgery.
Professional mole mapping identifies all pigmented moles on your body for your peace of mind.
Remove moles and pigmented lesions for your skin's safety with targeted mole removal.
Learn the early signs of skin cancer and receive treatment with specialists at our mole clinic.
Skin Lumps (Warts, Moles, Skin Tags)
Safely remove minor skin lumps, moles, skin tags, and lumps with localised treatments.
Cadogan Clinic is a leading day case centre of excellence based in the heart of London. Alongside our international team of plastic surgeons and dermatologists, we’re home to some of the leading gynaecologists, ophthalmologists, podiatrists and urologists in the country.
View all DepartmentsCadogan Clinic is a leading day case centre of excellence based in the heart of London. Alongside our international team of plastic surgeons and dermatologists, we’re home to some of the leading gynaecologists, ophthalmologists, podiatrists and urologists in the country.
We are experts in a wide range of Andrology treatments, in both elective and medical conditions.
Frenuloplasty surgery is a simple surgical procedure to release an overly-tight foreskin.
Premature ejaculation is a common sexual problem in men where sexual climax occurs ‘too early’.
Cadogan Clinic provides a wide range of cosmetic gynaecological surgery procedures performed by a multi-disciplinary team of the best surgeons in the UK.
Place or remove your contraceptive coil (IUD), one of the most effective methods of contraception.
Prioritise your cervical health with a colposcopy after a smear test or to identify symptoms.
A hysterectomy removes the uterus to aid severe conditions of the female reproductive system.
A hysteroscopy examines the uterus to identify conditions such as polyps and fibroids.
A myomectomy allows your doctor to remove painful fibroids without removing the uterus.
An ovarian cystectomy removes ovarian cysts under general anaesthetic through a small incision.
Perineum and Pelvic Floor Repair
Perineum and pelvic floor repair aids continence, muscle laxity, and appearance after childbirth.
Polyp removal is a minor day-case operation that removes and tests polyp growths on the cervix.
Vaginal prolapse surgery restores and strengthens the vaginal walls to help prevent recurrence.
A vulvectomy removes tissue on the vulva to combat complex conditions such as vulval cancer.
Laparoscopy, or keyhole surgery, allows us to diagnose conditions of the female reproductive organs.
We are experts in a wide range of hand problems, in both elective and traumatic conditions.
Treat carpal tunnel syndrome and relieve tension on the affected nerves in your hand.
Dupuytren's Contracture Surgery
Straighten fingers that are bent by Dupuytren's Contracture with different treatment options.
Soothe painful, sore, and stiff joints with hydrocortisone injections for more comfortable movement.
Remove ganglion cysts on your hands and wrists with a minor, localised surgery.
Straighten a stuck or trapped finger to 'release' the tension with trigger finger surgery.
Cosmetic foot surgery can help by firstly eliminating the sources of chronic pain or deformity and secondly, reshaping the feet for aesthetic appeal, often resulting in smaller, slimmer feet with a reduced shoe size.
Correct painful and unsightly bunions on your feet with surgery at Cadogan Clinic.
Achieve slender, feminine feet and improve their aesthetic appearance with Cinderella foot surgery.
If you're persistently developing corns on your feet, it's time to consider corn removal surgery.
Smooth and correct foot lumps, bumps, and corns with foot surgery and put your best foot forwards.
Toe Shortening & Straightening
Toe shortening and straightening helps to improve the cosmetic appearance of your toes.
Vascular surgery is a surgical subspecialty in which diseases of the vascular system, or arteries, veins and lymphatic circulation, are managed by medical therapy, minimally-invasive catheter procedures, and surgical reconstruction.
Deep vein thrombosis can be treated to remove a blood clot and reduce pain and swelling in the area.
Reduce visible thread veins with medical treatments such as sclerotherapy and laser treatment.
Smooth 'lumpy' and unsightly varicose veins that can also be painful with safe medical treatments.
We offer a range of Women’s Health and Wellness services, from fertility, family planning and pregnancy care to a comprehensive range of gynaecology health services
A cervical smear test is a simple yet essential test to check the health of your cervix and uterus.
Explore your contraception options if you feel that you are not using the right method for you.
Treat the more severe and painful symptoms of endometriosis to regain your quality of life.
Diagnose and learn how to manage heavy menstrual bleeding to take better control of your cycle.
Identify and manage HPV, STDs, and other intimate viruses to maintain your sexual health.
Find answers to treat irregular menstrual bleeding, including medicinal and lifestyle changes.
Low Libido / Sexual Difficulties
Reclaim your libido by indentifying the psychological or medical reasons behind it's loss.
Learn how to manage the symptoms of the menopause in all of their severity and variations.
Identify why you are experiencing painful or uncomfortable intercourse and take steps to treat this.
Consistently painful periods can cause distress, but there are ways to treat and control them.
Diagnose and treat pelvic pain regardless of whether it is a dull ache or a constant chronic pain.
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) affects 1 in 10 women, but for some it is particularly painful.
Identify and treat premature ovarian failure (POF) to maintain a more comfortable hormonal balance.
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) is natural for most women, but sometimes it can be severe.
Recurrent miscarriages are incredibly distressing, but they can be a symptom of underlying concerns.
Vaginal atrophy and dryness is common during the menopause, but no less uncomfortable or upsetting.
Diagnose intimate and sensitive genital skin conditions and complaints to soothe your skin.
Dermatology
Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that occurs when the body's immune system mistakes healthy cells for dangerous substances.
Get in touchWe have invited only the very best consultants to practice at our specialist clinic.
Our state-of the-art award winning facilities are located right in the heart of London.
Award Winning Specialist Clinic
We've won 12 top industry awards since 2010 and regularly feature in the national and international press.
Industry Leading Consultants
We've invited only the very best consultants in the country to practice with us.
Care Quality Commission
We're regulated by the independent regulator of health and social care in England.
GMC Registered Surgeons
All of our surgeons are registered with the General Medical Council.
Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that occurs when the body's immune system mistakes healthy cells for dangerous substances.
It is a common skin condition that causes red patches of inflamed skin with silver-white scales, often on the elbows and knees, but also commonly affects the scalp, face and folds of skin (such as the back of your knees and elbows).
Skin cells typically grow deep inside the skin, and about once a month they rise to the surface. This process is accelerated in those suffering from psoriasis, which causes a build-up of dead skin cells on the surface of the skin.
In some severe cases of psoriasis, dermatologists may recommend medication and injections, which alter the immune response of the body, therefore suppressing the outbreak.
Whatever your personal requirements, you can rest assured that we will provide the leading consultants and techniques for your treatment at our state-of-the-art, purpose-built, central London facility in Chelsea.
Get in touchWords from our clients:
“I have used Dr Mayou for years as my children’s dermatologist and was very pleased to discover she could take care of me as well. She has been extremely helpful, checking for melanoma and other skin issues as well as more cosmetic concerns. I have found her to be sensible and practical with a lovely manner and trust she is looking after the whole picture of my skins health and looks.”Jess K
"Everything was brilliant staff were incredibly friendly exact amount of info was given. Have already recommended this company to friends and family."Clare Brooks
“Wonderful service, knowledgeable staff, friendly service and comfortable ambience - well run. I will use you again in the future.“Sarah Tylor
"There is nothing that I feel could be improved at Cadogan Clinic. I was treated and looked after very well the place was very clean. Perfect. Thank you."Emma Grant
"The treatment was for my daughter and the aesthetic practitioner couldn't have been more helpful and informative all through the course of treatment, it was a great treatment with a brilliant outcome. The whole experience was very professional and any worries we went in with were soon taken away after the team greeted us and treated us."Jessica Yates
There are a number of reasons why people seek psoriasis skin treatment.
The main symptoms of psoriasis are
The most common form of psoriasis is plaque psoriasis, and occurs in roughly 80-90% of cases. This manifests in raised, thickened, silvery skin in plaques of various sizes, with smaller plaques joined together to form larger plaques. Itchiness is a common feature of plaque psoriasis. Scratching it will make your symptoms worsen.
The other 10% - 20% of cases can be one of:
Most commonly psoriasis forms in the following areas of the body:
That said, depending on which type of psoriasis is present, psoriasis can appear almost anywhere in the body and even be generalised across the entire surface of the body's skin.
We successfully treat hundreds of psoriasis cases each year
Our team of ten highly experienced specialist dermatologists have been handpicked to form one of the best independent dermatology units in the country
Our psoriasis specialists have the highest levels of training and qualifications
We work with major bodies and organisations to ensure standards are maintained. These include The British Association of Dermatologists (BAD), Royal College of Surgeons (RCS), Care Quality Commission (CQC) and the General Medical Council (GMC)
Our purpose-built dermatology clinic is conveniently located off Sloane Square, Chelsea
Unfortunately, there is no cure for psoriasis, but there are a number of ways to manage the symptoms. Psoriasis treatment includes:
Topical creams and gels
Creams, gels and lotions which are applied directly to the affected area of skin are best suited for mild to moderate cases of psoriasis.
There are various different types of topical solutions that can be used to manage psoriasis, depending on the severity of the condition and the parts of the body affected.
Light therapy
Also known as phototherapy, this type of psoriasis treatment delivers a carefully measured dose of ultraviolet light to reduce the body’s immune response. This reduces inflammation of the skin.
Types of light therapy for psoriasis include:
Medication
Medications which are taken orally or injected are reserved for patients with the most serious cases of psoriasis which has not responded to other treatments.
Your doctor may prescribe a psoriasis medication for a short burst and supplement with other treatment types. It is important to discuss a medication plan thoroughly with your doctor.
Types of psoriasis medication includes:
You will meet with one of our highly trained dermatologists at the Cadogan Clinic on Sloane Street, Chelsea for an in-person assessment of your skin.
Your consultant will discuss the following with you at this consultation:
3 Easy Steps
Cadogan Clinic. A strong tradition of innovation
Founded in 2004 by world renown dermatologist Dr Susan Mayou, we now work with over 100 leading consultants and successfully treat over 20,000 patients each year. We have been winning industry awards since inception.
Get in touchWe have invited a selection of the country's very best consultants to join us at the Cadogan Clinic so that you can be sure that whatever the nature of your treatment, you will be seeing one of the top practitioners in the country.
Dr. Andreea Anton
Dr. Meena Arunachalam
Dr Aveen Connolly
Dr. Tamara W Griffiths
Dr. Mia Jing Gao
Dr. Wisam Alwan
Dr Maham Khan
Dr. Hayley Leeman
Dr. Susan Mayou
Dr. Sophie Momen
Dr. Amélie Seghers
Dr Kristina Semkova
Dr Thomas Tull
Psoriasis is a common skin complaint and affects roughly two percent of the population.
Psoriasis occurs when the body’s immune system goes into overdrive, with overactive white blood cells attacking the body’s healthy skin cells. This leads to an overproduction of new skin cells which pile up on the surface of the skin. This pile-up is known as psoriasis.
It is not known exactly what causes psoriasis, although the condition is not contagious and does not run in families.
However psoriasis is more common in people with white Caucasian skin. Psoriasis can affect people of all ages, but it is most likely to appear first between the ages of 15 and 35 years old.
Although it is not known exactly what causes psoriasis, there are a number of environmental factors which are known to cause the condition to flare up. These are:
Stress
Episodes of stress are known to cause psoriasis flare ups. The presence of psoriasis itself can often cause stress, leaving the patient in a vicious circle. Relaxation techniques, such as meditation, massage and breathing exercises, may be useful alongside your psoriasis treatment if stress is a known trigger for you.
Injury or Infection
Skin that has been injured or subject to trauma may develop psoriasis. Examples of skin injury include sunburn, cuts or insect bites. This is known as the Koebner response.
Bacterial or viral infections can also increase the likelihood of psoriasis developing. Children who frequently contract strep throat or other recurring infections are at a greater risk of psoriasis. People with HIV or other immune disorders are also at a greater risk.
Medications
Certain medications may put you at a greater risk of psoriasis. Medications that have been linked to psoriasis include lithium, beta-blockers, tetracycline, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and malaria drugs. Please do not stop taking any medications without speaking to your doctor first.
Cold, dry weather
Cold dry air dries out the skin, making it more likely to split, crack and bleed. This can lead to infections.
Lifestyle
Psoriasis can appear on almost any part of the body, but there are certain areas which are particularly prone to psoriasis. These include the elbows, knees, scalp and lower back.
The symptoms of psoriasis vary depending on whereabouts on the body it develops.
The main symptoms of psoriasis are:
There are several different types of psoriasis. Most people have only one of these at a time, although sometimes two different types can occur together. It is not unusual for one form to change into another or worsen. Cases of psoriasis tend to go through cycles, causing problems for weeks or months before easing. The different types of psoriasis are:
Plaque psoriasis
This is the most common form of psoriasis, occurring in roughly 80-90 percent of cases. Plaque psoriasis presents as raised, thickened, silvery skin in plaques. The plaques come in various sizes, with smaller plaques joined together to form larger plaques. Itchiness is common in plaque psoriasis, but scratching will make symptoms worse. In the most severe cases, the skin around the joints may crack and bleed.
Scalp psoriasis
This can affect all or part of the scalp. Scalp psoriasis presents as red patches of skin, covered in thick, silvery-white coloured scales. Some people may find it itchy, while others don’t. In severe cases, scalp psoriasis may cause temporary hair loss.
Guttate psoriasis
Characterised by small, scaly pink bumps on the skin, guttate psoriasis is typically found on the torso, legs and arms. Sometimes this form of psoriasis can disappear completely after a few weeks. It is most commonly found in children and teenagers.
Inverse psoriasis
Otherwise known as flexural psoriasis, this type of psoriasis is typically found in folds of skin where the skin touches, such as the armpits, breasts, buttocks and around the genitals. This form of psoriasis is characterised by smooth, red patches of skin that appear raw. Friction and sweating can make inverse psoriasis feel worse, particularly during the summer months.
Pustular psoriasis
This type of psoriasis leaves a patient with sore, pus-filled bumps on the feet and the hands.
Pustular psoriasis (generalised)
This is a very rare life-threatening type of psoriasis. This condition affects much of the skin’s surface and a flare up is often accompanied by fever, headache, muscle weakness and other symptoms. Immediate medical care is required.
Erythrodermic psoriasis
Although rare, erythrodermic psoriasis is life-threatening and also requires immediate medical attention. This form causes intense itching and burning, causing the body to lose fluid and proteins. This can lead to dehydration, hypothermia, infection, or even heart failure.
Palmoplantar pustulosis
Pustules appear on the soles of the feet and palms of the hands before developing into brown scaly spots which can be peeled off.
Acropustulosis
Pustules appear on the fingers and toes before bursting, leaving bright red areas of skin that may turn scaly or ooze.
Nail psoriasis
In roughly half of the people who suffer from psoriasis, the condition affects the nails. This leads to pitted, dented or discoloured nails. Nails can become loose from the nail bed and, in the most serious cases, the nails may crumble.
Psoriatic arthritis
This occurs when psoriasis affects the joints, causing them to become stiff, swollen and painful. The condition can get progressively worse if not treated and in severe cases, the joints may become permanently damaged. This condition requires immediate medical management.
What causes psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory condition of the skin which affects 2% of the population and causes an increase in the rate of the cell turnover.
The normal rate of cell turnover is around a month but in psoriasis, it can be as little as 3-4 days. This causes a build-up of skin cells which cannot be shed normally and typically presents as well-demarcated pink or red plaques with a superficial silvery scale.
The plaques tend to be symmetrical and most often occur on the knees, elbows and shins but can occur anywhere on the body. The scalp and flexures of the axillae (armpits) and groin may also be affected. Psoriasis can also affect the nails which classically have tiny depressions or pits and with separation of the distal nail margin from the underlying nail plate and may be associated with arthritis (joint pains).
Psoriasis is due to an immune system dysfunction and is not something you can catch nor is it contagious. It is mediated by T-cells, a class of white blood cells which usually fend off attacks from viruses and bacteria, but with psoriasis the T-cells attack the healthy skin stimulating the increased production of new skin cells and causing inflammation.
The cause of the T-cell malfunction is thought to be a genetic predisposition and environmental factors. There is often a positive family history of psoriasis and the environmental causes include:
Psoriasis is a chronic disease that flares and subsides intermittently over life. While there is no cure for psoriasis (meaning the condition cannot be eradicated completely so a future flare-up never occurs), there are many ways to manage the symptoms.
When are topical treatments most suitable for psoriasis treatment?
Topical treatment is best suited for mild to moderate cases of psoriasis and consists of creams, ointments or gels. Sometimes topical treatment will be used as a supplement to a larger medical plan for severe psoriasis.
These can include:
When is light therapy most suitable for psoriasis treatment?
Psoriasis often improves in the summer and on exposure to sunlight.
Light Therapy, also known as phototherapy, harnesses the power of ultraviolet light often in combination with topical treatment if topical treatment alone has not been effective.
Types of light therapy for psoriasis include:
When are oral or injected medications most suitable for treatment?
Systemic treatment for psoriasis through medication is typically reserved for severe cases or those which have not responded to topical treatments with phototherapy. This is because medication to treat psoriasis are accompanied by potentially severe side effects.
Your doctor may prescribe a psoriasis medication for a short burst and supplement with other treatment types. It is important to discuss a medication plan thoroughly with your doctor.
Psoriasis medications are either taken orally via pill or by injection. Types of these medications include
Does drinking cause psoriasis?
Research indicates that drinking alcohol is a common trigger for psoriasis, and can increase the likelihood of a flare-up in an individual disposed to psoriasis.
This is not always the case, however, and psoriasis can be triggered by a variety of other emotional, environmental and medical factors.
It is also true that people who do not drink alcohol can suffer from psoriasis.
Is psoriasis genetic?
There is evidence that psoriasis is genetic and it is common that psoriasis sufferers also have family members who suffer from the condition.
This is a very common disorder, however, impacting roughly 2% of the population and variety of other causes are also known to be associated beyond genetics, including an array of environmental and medical causes.
Is psoriasis contagious?
Psoriasis is not contagious. It is caused by an over active immune system, so cannot be given to somebody else.
Is psoriasis dangerous?
Typically psoriasis is not dangerous when experienced in mild form.
That said, psoriasis can be a very dangerous condition, particularly when symptoms are generalised (as opposed to localised) and very severe.
If you suffer from psoriasis you should seek a professional medical opinion.
Will psoriasis go away on its own?
Psoriasis is a chronic condition, which in some cases can severely impact upon a person’s quality of life. If left untreated, it is unlikely that psoriasis will disappear permanently of its own accord.
The goal of psoriasis treatment is to reduce the symptoms and end the flare up. If treatments are successful, psoriasis may go into remission.
However it is worth remembering that psoriasis is highly unpredictable. Remission can be a lengthy process and symptoms may be absent for months or years. But it can also be short-lived and symptoms may return within a few weeks.
Psoriasis is more likely to go into remission if it is treated. One of our psoriasis specialists will be able to advise on which treatment will be best for you.
Is there a cure for psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a chronic condition. There is no cure for psoriasis. Some treatments can control the condition permanently, or even prompt long remissions.
But since psoriasis is linked to genetic makeup, we do not have a permanent cure for the disease.
Is my psoriasis treatment permanent?
Whilst your results may essentially prove permanent, treatments are only able to control the disease and are not able to fully cure it.
It will not be known at the outset whether your treatment is able to deliver permanent results for you
How can I tell the difference between psoriasis and eczema?
Psoriasis and eczema are common skin conditions, but it is often difficult for the untrained eye to tell the difference between the two conditions.
Eczema makes the skin red and inflamed, it may be scaly, oozing, or crusty and some sufferers may find that they have rough, leathery patches on the skin. Psoriasis can also cause red patches, which may also be silvery, scaly and raised. The skin is thicker and is more inflamed in a person with psoriasis.
You will need to seek a professional medical opinion from a trained dermatologist to understand your skin condition if you are unsure.
Founded in 2004 by world renowned plastic surgeon Mr Bryan Mayou, we now work with over 100 leading consultants and successfully treat over 20,000 patients each year. We have been winning industry awards since inception.
About UsBest in class facilities
All of our treatments take place at our beautiful boutique premises in Chelsea. We have six consulting rooms and five operating rooms, as well as a dedicated aesthetics and laser suite, and a full team of specialist nursing staff.
Our ClinicWorld class consultants
We have handpicked over 100 of the leading consultants in our field to practice with us, and now help over 20,000 patients each year. We also welcome leading international consultants from the US & Europe regularly to the Clinic.
Our HistoryStrong tradition of innovation
We were founded in 2004 by world dermatologist Dr Susan Mayou, best known for founding the British Association of Cosmetic Dermatologists and introducing the first Mole Check service to be approved by the British Skin Foundation in the UK. We continue to collaborate with pioneers in our field.
Get in TouchAt home in Sloane Street, London
Our state of the art award-winning clinic is located in one of the most exclusive neighbourhoods in the country, in the heart of Chelsea and just a few minutes walk Knightsbridge and Belgravia.
Welcome to Sloane StreetThe Cadogan Clinic is based at 120 Sloane Street in Chelsea, just off Sloane Square and the Kings Road.
We are accessible by all major bus routes that pass through Sloane Square and Sloane Street, as well as Sloane Square tube station.
We are just a 5 minute walk northwards up Sloane Street once you have arrived at Sloane Square.
Local pay parking is available just around the corner from the Clinic on Cadogan Gate, Cadogan Square and Cadogan Gardens. Our local residential parking zone is the Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea.
Address: 120 Sloane Street, Chelsea, London, SW1X 9BW
Dermatology
We believe in the delivery of excellent outcomes and results, and exceptional levels of service. Our outcomes are natural and long-lasting, and we remain the premier choice for cosmetic surgery treatments in the UK.
Dermatology
Acne Scar Removal
Dermatology
Acne Treatments
Dermatology
Bacterial Skin Infections
Dermatology
Dermatitis
Dermatology
Eczema
Dermatology
Excess Hair Growth
Dermatology
Hair Loss Treatment
Dermatology
Hyperhidrosis (Excessive Sweating)
Dermatology
Milia Removal
Dermatology
Paediatric Dermatology
2023
Aesthetic Awards
Highly Commended Best Clinic in London
2021
Aesthetics Awards
Highly Commended
2021
My Face My Body
Best Clinic Winner
2020
My Face My Body
Best Clinic Winner
2019
My Face My Body
Winner
2018
My Face My Body
Highly Commended
2018
Aesthetics Awards
Highly Commended
2017
Aesthetics Awards
Winner