Psoriasis Treatment in Singapore
MOH-Accredited Dermatologist | Oxford Fellowship Trained in Mohs Micrographic Surgery & Advanced Dermatologic Surgery
Consult Dr Tay Liang Kiat, a fully accredited dermatologist in Singapore with more than 25 years of clinical experience. He manages medical, surgical, and aesthetic dermatology conditions, including psoriasis, eczema, acne, urticaria, hair loss, children’s skin conditions, skin cancers, and other complex dermatological concerns.
How Common is Psoriasis in Singapore?
According to National Skin Centre, it is estimated that 1-2% of the population in Singapore has psoriasis. While the Psoriasis Association of Singapore also estimates that at least 40,000 people in Singapore are affected by psoriasis.
Is There a Cure for Psoriasis?
As psoriasis can be uncomfortable, many individuals with this condition may seek a cure in Singapore. Currently, there is no medication that can completely cure psoriasis, but there are treatments that may help control the condition or manage the patches.
What Causes Psoriasis?
The exact cause of psoriasis is not fully understood. It is an immune-mediated inflammatory skin disorder with multifactorial inheritance, meaning both genetic and environmental factors are understood to play a role in its development. Certain environmental factors may trigger psoriasis in individuals who are predisposed genetically, including stress, alcohol, smoking, infections, and certain medications.
Treatments for Psoriasis
Since there is no cure for psoriasis, the aim of psoriasis treatments is to reduce skin rashes and manage discomfort.
Topical treatment
For mild psoriasis in Singapore, topical treatment is often prescribed as an initial management option. These treatments are applied directly to the skin to help reduce inflammation, slow excessive cell growth, and relieve itching symptoms. Topical steroid creams, coal tar, and vitamin D-based creams may be applied directly to the skin and scalp to help treat mild to moderate psoriasis.
Phototherapy
If topical treatments do not provide adequate control for the condition, it may be combined with phototherapy. This treatment involves exposing the skin to controlled doses of ultraviolet light at specific wavelengths to address rashes by slowing excessive cell growth and reducing inflammation. Sessions may be conducted two to three times a week under a dermatologist’s supervision.
Oral or injected medication
For moderate to severe cases of psoriasis, our dermatologist may prescribe oral treatments to help calm the overactive immune response that triggers skin inflammation. These treatments may include methotrexate, acitretin, or ciclosporin. Regular blood tests are necessary to monitor for any side effects from these immunosuppressants.
Biologic injection
For psoriasis patients who have not responded adequately to other treatments or experienced side effects, our dermatologist may recommend biologic treatments, which are protein-based drugs used to treat psoriasis in Singapore. There are many biologic injections increasingly used to treat extensive psoriasis, which may help improve clinical response and psoriasis rash clearance.
Biologic treatments work by helping to control specific parts of the immune system involved in psoriasis. Some medications may also help treat painful psoriatic arthritis. Before receiving an injection, patients should be assessed for suitability based on their clinical history, lifestyle, and medical issues.
Diagnosis of Psoriasis
Psoriasis is usually diagnosed through a clinical evaluation by a doctor, based on the appearance and distribution of the skin lesions. Well-defined red patches with silvery scales on areas such as the scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back are characteristic features that help guide diagnosis.
In some cases, additional tests may be performed if the presentation is unclear or to rule out other skin conditions such as eczema or fungal infections. This may include a skin biopsy, where a small sample of skin is taken for laboratory analysis. Nail changes and joint symptoms may also be assessed to check for associated nail psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis.
Can Psoriasis Spread?
Psoriasis is often misunderstood, with some individuals concerned about whether it can spread through contact. It is important to understand that psoriasis is not an infectious condition and cannot be transmitted from one person to another.
This skin condition develops due to an overactive immune response influenced by genetic and environmental factors, rather than bacteria or viruses. As such, everyday interactions such as touching, sharing items, or close physical contact do not pose any risk of spreading psoriasis.
What Does Psoriasis Look Like?
Psoriasis may appear differently depending on its type.
Plaque Psoriasis
Plaque psoriasis is a common type of psoriasis in Singapore and appears as red, elevated patches covered with whitish scales. Lesions may appear in a symmetrical manner on both sides of the body. Areas often affected include the scalp, elbows, knees, arms, legs, ears, and lower back. On the scalp, psoriasis may appear like severe dandruff, but in more severe cases, it may develop into thick, scaly patches.
Guttate Psoriasis
Guttate psoriasis is more commonly seen in children and young adults, appearing as small, red, and elevated spots. It may be triggered by a streptococcal throat infection, a common cold, chickenpox, or certain vaccines. It may also reappear with successive sore-throat attacks.
Pustular Psoriasis
Pustular psoriasis can be localised to certain parts of the body or found all over the body. It looks like white, pus-filled blisters surrounded by red or discoloured skin, which often feels painful.
Erythrodermic Psoriasis
In this form of psoriasis, the skin shows redness and scaly patches on the body and face. Most affected individuals start by having what seems like persistent dandruff for some time. In more severe cases, it may affect the nails, causing them to appear thickened and lustreless.
Nail Psoriasis
Individuals with nail psoriasis may notice various changes in the nails, such as pitting, discolouration, thickening, or separation from the nail bed.
Symptoms of Psoriasis
The most common symptoms of psoriasis include raised, red patches on the skin covered with silvery or white scales. These patches primarily appear on the elbows, knees, scalp, lower back, feet, nails, and genital regions. Additionally, individuals may experience symptoms such as:
- Burning sensation or itchiness on the skin
- Dry, cracked skin that bleeds
- Pain or soreness in the skin
- Pitted (dented) or discoloured nails
Symptoms may be mild or severe. Some individuals may have occasional flare-ups, while others have persistent symptoms. In some cases, psoriasis can also affect the joints, leading to painful, stiff joints.
How to Differentiate Between Psoriasis and Eczema?
Psoriasis and eczema are easily mistaken for one another because they share several similarities. However, they may be differentiated by their general appearance. Eczema often causes a thin, dry and scaly rash with discolouration, while psoriasis typically appears as well-defined, raised plaques covered with thick, silvery scales. They can also differ in their symptoms, affected areas and underlying causes. Read more in Psoriasis vs Eczema: Key Differences Explained by a Dermatologist.
Daily Skin Care and Psoriasis Management
A consistent skincare routine can complement medical treatment and help keep the skin more comfortable.
Some simple steps that may help reduce dryness and irritation include:
- Using a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser
- Applying moisturiser soon after bathing
- Reapplying moisturiser whenever the skin feels dry
- Avoiding harsh scrubbing or exfoliation
- Trying not to scratch or pick at the plaques
- Wearing soft, comfortable clothing that does not rub against the skin
- Using prescribed treatment as directed
- Keeping track of personal triggers and reducing them where possible
These habits will not replace medical treatment, but they may help protect the skin barrier, reduce irritation and make day-to-day symptoms easier to manage.
When Psoriasis Requires Urgent Medical Attention
Seek urgent medical assessment if you develop widespread redness, extensive skin shedding, widespread pustules, fever, feel seriously unwell or experience sudden severe joint swelling.
Psoriasis Management at Stratum Skin and Surgery
Looking for a psoriasis cure in Singapore? Stratum Skin and Surgery offers personalised treatment plans to help manage psoriasis, reduce flare-ups, and improve overall skin health. Our dermatology team will assess your condition and recommend suitable options based on your needs and lifestyle.
Don’t let psoriasis affect your quality of life. Book a consultation with Stratum Skin and Surgery today to explore effective treatment options and take the first step towards better skin control.
Frequently Asked Questions About Psoriasis Treatment in Singapore
How do you treat psoriasis in Singapore?
Psoriasis is treated based on its severity. Mild cases are treated with topical creams such as steroids or vitamin D. While moderate to severe cases may require phototherapy, oral medications, or biologic injections to control inflammation and reduce flare-ups.
Is psoriasis contagious?
No, psoriasis is not contagious. It can’t be spread through skin contact, sharing personal items, or close physical interaction.
Is it possible to cure psoriasis permanently?
There is no permanent cure for psoriasis currently. However, it can be tamed with appropriate treatment, and you can reduce or minimise the flare-ups.
What causes psoriasis?
Psoriasis is an immune-mediated condition influenced by both genetic factors and environmental triggers. It is a condition where the immune system speeds up skin cell turnover leading to thick, scaly patches.
What triggers psoriasis flare-ups?
Common factors causing psoriasis to flare-ups include; stress, infections (such as sore throat), certain medications, smoking, alcohol consumption, and skin injury. Identifying and avoiding your personal triggers can help reduce flare-ups.
Consult a Dermatologist for Psoriasis Treatment
Our team of experienced dermatologists and skin surgeons are here to help you identify, diagnose, and manage psoriasis care. Book your appointment today for a thorough evaluation and peace of mind.
Our Psoriasis Dermatologist
Dr Tay Liang Kiat
Dr Tay Liang Kiat is a fully accredited Dermatologist who specialises in skin cancers, Mohs micrographic surgery, dermatologic and nail surgery, aesthetic dermatology and laser procedures. With more than 25 years of clinical experience, he also manages other aspects of general ambulatory and inpatient dermatology, including eczema, psoriasis, acne, urticaria, hair loss, children skin issues and other complex medical dermatology. In addition, he has expertise in the use of the latest immunotherapy (biologics) treatment for severe eczema, psoriasis and urticaria.
Background
- UK (Oxford) Fellowship trained Dermatologist, specialising in Skin Cancer Screening and Treatment, Mohs Micrographic Surgery, Advanced Dermatologic Surgery
- UK-educated with more than 25 years clinical experience
- Accredited Dermatologist by Ministry of Health and Specialist Accreditation Board, Singapore
- Former Senior Dermatologist in private dermatology group practice
- Former Consultant Dermatologist and Head of Dermatology Surgery Services and Eczema Clinic at Changi General Hospital, Singapore
- Former Visiting Consultant Dermatologist at Military Medical Institute Specialist Centre, Singapore Armed Forces
Fellowship & Accreditation
- Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery, University of Glasgow, UK
- Member of the Royal College of Physicians, UK
- Member of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow, UK
- Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh, UK
- Fellow of the Academy of Medicine (Dermatology), Singapore
- Fellowship in Mohs Micrographic Surgery and Advanced Dermatologic Surgery, University of Oxford, UK
Related Article
Psoriasis vs. Eczema: Key Differences Explained By a Dermatologist
At first glance, psoriasis and eczema are easily mistaken for one another because they share several similarities. However, it is vital that each skin condition is accurately diagnosed to determine the best course of treatment. Here is a guide prepared by our dermatological team to help you differentiate these conditions.
Contact Information
Our Locations
- Suite #04-04 Parkway East Medical Centre 319 Joo Chiat Place Singapore 427989
- 1 Scotts Road #03-02 Shaw Centre Singapore 228208
Contact Numbers
- Whatsapp: +65 9159 2824
- Phone: +65 6539 9365
- Fax: +65 6539 9465
Email Address
- contact@stratumskin.com.sg
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Our Locations
- Suite #04-04 Parkway East Medical Centre 319 Joo Chiat Place Singapore 427989
- 1 Scotts Road #03-02 Shaw Centre Singapore 228208
Contact Numbers
- Whatsapp: +65 9159 2824
- Phone: +65 6539 9365
- Fax: +65 6539 9465