Psoriasis

What is Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease in which immune dysregulation causes skin cells to proliferate abnormally fast, resulting in red patches covered with thick silvery-white scales. It is not contagious, and typically follows a chronic, relapsing–remitting course.

Overview of psoriasis
▲ A chronic inflammatory condition in which skin cells overproliferate due to immune dysregulation
Causes and Aggravating Factors:
  • Genetic predisposition + immune abnormality (T-cell-mediated inflammation)
  • Stress, overwork, and sleep loss
  • Onset or flare after tonsillitis or upper respiratory infection
  • Dry seasons and low UV exposure
  • Alcohol, smoking, and certain medications (e.g., beta-blockers)

Main Types of Psoriasis

Plaque Psoriasis

The most common form. Sharply demarcated red plaques with silvery scales on the scalp, elbows, knees, and sacrum.

Guttate Psoriasis

Sudden appearance of small, drop-shaped lesions on the trunk and limbs after infections such as tonsillitis. More common in children and young adults.

Nail & Scalp Psoriasis

Nail pitting and discoloration, or thick scaling and itch on the scalp. Diagnosis is often delayed.

Main Symptoms

Skin Symptoms
  1. Silvery-white scales on red patches
  2. Scales come off in powdery flakes when scratched
  3. Well-defined plaques
  4. Symmetrical involvement of scalp, elbows, knees, and sacrum
  5. Itch is often present but usually less severe than in atopy
Possible Associated Symptoms
  1. Nail pitting or discoloration
  2. Joint pain and swelling (psoriatic arthritis)
  3. Increased risk of metabolic syndrome
  4. Fatigue and emotional distress
  5. Notable worsening under stress

The Korean Medicine View of Psoriasis

In Korean medicine, psoriasis is understood in terms of the state of the blood (血), including patterns such as blood-heat (血熱), blood-dryness (血燥), and blood-stasis (血瘀). It is approached with the view that internal heat and circulation, digestion, immunity, and stress response, not just the skin surface, all play a role.

Osundosun's Approach to Psoriasis

Herbal Prescriptions Matched to Constitution and Stage

The approach differs between acute inflammatory phases and chronic phases marked by dryness and thickened skin.

Our Solution:
Based on Vice-Director Oh Eun-jeong's 35 years of constitutional care, we prepare herbal formulas considering both constitution and disease phase in our on-site herbal dispensary, combined with acupuncture or pharmacopuncture when needed.
Can I continue Western medical treatments at the same time?
Yes, concurrent care is possible. If you are currently on medications or phototherapy, please let us know at your visit; we will build a care plan that takes them into account.
How long does care take?
Psoriasis is a chronic condition managed over the long term. Duration depends on individual history, disease phase, and lifestyle. Ongoing care and healthy daily habits go hand in hand.

Helpful Daily Care

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Moderate Sunlight

Moderate natural sun exposure can be helpful for psoriasis.

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Moisturizing

Scaling weakens the skin barrier, so consistent moisturizing is essential.

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Stress Management

Stress is a clear aggravator. Prioritize sleep and rest.

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Limit Alcohol & Tobacco

Both are well-known aggravators of psoriasis.

With psoriasis, patience beats haste.

Psoriasis is a condition to be managed over time.
A comprehensive approach — constitution and lifestyle together — aims for a more stable skin state.

For long-standing psoriasis, Osundosun Korean Medicine Clinic is with you.