Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that causes skin cells to be produced much faster than normal. Instead of shedding naturally, skin cells build up on the surface of the skin, leading to thick, scaly plaques. Genetics, immune system activity, and environmental triggers all play a role in the development of psoriasis.

Common symptoms of plaque psoriasis include:
Red, raised patches of skin
Silvery-white scales
Dry or cracked skin
Itching
Burning or soreness
Flaking skin
Thickened plaques on the elbows, knees, scalp, or lower back
Symptoms can vary in severity and may come and go over time.

Our plaque psoriasis service offers prescription treatments including:
Enstilar® Foam (which contains Calcipotriol 50 microgram/g Betamethasone 500 microgram/g). This is best for thick, stubborn or widespread plaque psoriasis. This form has the fastest onset and its easy to spread over large areas.
Dovobet® Gel (which contains Calcipotriol 50 microgram/g Betamethasone 500 microgram/g). This contains the same ingredients as Enstilar® Foam but the gel formulation makes it more suitable mild to moderate psoriasis, especially affecting hair bearing areas like the scalp and the beard.
Dovonex® Ointment (which contains calcipotriol). This is best for mild psoriasis and longer term maintenance that is steroid free.
The most suitable treatment for you will be based on the location, severity, and extent of your psoriasis.

Common psoriasis triggers include:
Stress
Illness and infections
Skin injuries
Cold weather
Smoking
Excess alcohol consumption
Certain medications
Learning your individual triggers can help improve long-term symptom control.

No. Psoriasis is not contagious and cannot be passed from one person to another through physical contact.

Dovobet Gel contains the same active ingredients as Enstilar Foam (calcipotriol and betamethasone) but in a gel formulation. It is commonly used to treat plaque psoriasis and may be recommended depending on the location of the affected skin.

Dovonex Ointment contains calcipotriol alone. It works by slowing down the rapid production of skin cells that occurs in psoriasis and can help reduce plaque formation and scaling.

Psoriasis treatments aim to:
Reduce inflammation
Slow excessive skin cell production
Reduce scaling and flaking
Improve redness
Relieve itching and irritation
Help plaques become thinner and less noticeable
While treatment can significantly improve symptoms, it does not permanently cure psoriasis.

Many patients begin to notice improvements within the first few weeks of treatment. Redness, scaling, and itching often improve gradually with consistent use. More significant improvements may occur over several weeks depending on the severity of psoriasis.

Yes, all three treatments are generally safe and effective when used as prescribed. Dovonex Ointment contains calcipotriol only and is usually considered the safest option for long-term use because it does not contain a steroid. Its most common side effects are mild skin irritation, redness, itching, burning, or dry skin. Rarely, excessive use can affect calcium levels in the blood.

Enstilar Foam and Dovobet Gel contain both calcipotriol and the potent corticosteroid betamethasone. They are usually more effective and work faster than Dovonex, but prolonged or excessive use may increase the risk of steroid-related side effects, including skin thinning, stretch marks, easy bruising, visible blood vessels, folliculitis, and rebound flare-ups when treatment is stopped. Common side effects include itching, burning, stinging, and irritation at the application site.

These treatments should generally be used with caution on the face, groin, and skin folds, where side effects are more likely. When used according to medical advice, the benefits usually outweigh the risks. A common treatment strategy is to use Enstilar Foam or Dovobet Gel to control active psoriasis and then switch to Dovonex Ointment for long-term maintenance to reduce steroid exposure.