Psoriasis Treatment
Psoriasis specialists passionate about helping you find relief.
About Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a common, chronic, autoimmune condition that causes skin to develop red, scaly patches due to an overactive immune response that speeds up skin cell turnover. Psoriasis can also cause joint pain, and affect the nails, causing pain, discolouration, and crumbling of the nail.
Symptoms depend on which type of psoriasis, but can include:
- Red, itchy skin
- Flakey, or scaly patches
- Raised, hard plaques
- Burning or soreness
- Blisters
- Nail pitting or discolouration
- Fatigue
- Psoriatic arthritis
- Eye inflammation
Seeing a psoriasis specialist in Barrie
When dealing with a complex systemic condition such as psoriasis, it is best to see a dermatologist who specializes in treating such diseases. It could make a difference in the level of relief, and quality of advice you receive.
Dr. Alam is our psoriasis specialist. She is an outstanding, board-certified dermatologist who has committed to leading the way in providing the best medical dermatology services. She has published articles in well known dermatology publications on her research for psoriasis.
If you would like to be seen by a psoriasis specialist at SimcoDerm, a family doctor, or clinic doctor must first examine your symptoms and then arrange for a referral.
There is no cost to you for seeing a dermatologist in Ontario for medical concerns like psoriasis. The Ontario Health Insurance Plan, also known as OHIP, covers medical dermatology appointments.
How is psoriasis treated?
The first step to managing psoriasis is a comprehensive evaluation by our expert dermatologists. Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that affects the skin, causing flare-ups of redness, scaling, and discomfort. While there is no cure, the right treatment can significantly reduce symptoms, improve skin health, and enhance your quality of life.
Our team will guide you through proven treatment options, including:
- Topical therapies – Corticosteroids, vitamin D analogs, and moisturizers to reduce inflammation and scaling.
- Systemic medications – For moderate to severe cases, oral or injectable treatments (such as biologics) can help regulate the immune response.
Psoriasis affects everyone differently, which is why personalized treatment is key. Our goal is to help you understand your triggers, explore the best treatment options, and create a long-term plan for clearer, healthier skin.
Let’s take the first step together. We are here to support you every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions
What triggers psoriasis flare-ups?
Psoriasis flare-ups are frequently linked to their triggers. This list common triggers however what bothers a person's psoriasis is often very individual to them.
- Alcohol
- Smoking
- Dry or cold weather
- Warm weather
- Stress
- Infections
- Medications
- Tattoos or peircings
Does diet affect psoriasis?
It does. Many foods can make psoriasis worse. By avoiding certain foods you may find that psoriasis symptoms calm down. The most common problem foods include:
- Diary
- Alcohol
- Refined (fast) carbs, like white bread, pasta or some cereals. (Learn more about different types of carbs)
- Sugar
- Gluten
How do biologic medications help with psoriasis?
Biologics aim to alter the way that the immune system works to stop symptoms of psoriasis as close to the source as is medically possible right now. Compared to topical or systemic steroids, biologics are more powerful and for the many patients whom they work well for, they are a lifechanger.
Do you do phototherapy?
No. We do not offer phototherapy as part of our treatment plans. It causes premature aging of the skin and increases the risk of skin cancer. There are better options for treating psoriasis.
Clinical Trials for Psoriasis
Currently there is no cure for psoriasis. Patients who have resisted normal treatments may be eligible to participate in a clinical trial. A trial is a scientific study to evaluate a new medicine to see if it can be better and safer than other treatment options.
By studying new treatments, researchers have advanced the quality of medicines available for people. The government has approved new healthcare innovations every decade that change people’s lives for the better.
If you are looking to be a part of a clinical trial for your psoriasis, you should know that you could receive:
- Access to cutting edge treatments that could improve your condition
- Expert care from top eczema specialists
- Continuous monitoring
- Cost-free treatment
- And the opportunity to help develop advanced psoriasis medications
Participating in a trial is an important decision, with a lot to consider. To learn more and apply to participate visit our clinical trials page here.
