Psoriasis is a multi-factorial chronic inflammatory skin disorder estimated to affect around 1.5% of the UK population.1 It is characterised by symmetrically distributed, well-demarcated plaques covered in a silvery scale. Plaques tend to appear pink-red in lighter skin types but can be violaceous or brown with associated post-inflammatory pigment changes in darker skin types.2 Psoriasis can have a profound effect on quality of life and has been associated with an increased risk of psychiatric comorbidities.3,4 The condition is also associated with a number of comorbidities, including psoriatic arthritis, cardiometabolic disease and inflammatory bowel disease.5 A holistic approach to management should therefore be adopted, taking into account lifestyle factors and the psychological and physical burden of the disease.
Management of psoriasis should address lifestyle factors that have been associated with the condition, such as smoking, alcohol intake, weight management and exercise.6
