Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin condition that causes inflammation, leading to itchiness and discomfort for the affected individual. With unexpected bouts of activity or ‘flare ups’1 , characterised by red, scaly patches that can be itchy, painful or uncomfortable, psoriasis is more than just a surface-level issue. An estimated 60 million people worldwide suffer from psoriasis,2 making it one of the most prevalent dermatological conditions. Despite how widespread the condition is, there is no cure, but symptoms can be managed with topical, oral, or systemic treatments. 3 Scientists and healthcare professionals are working hard to better understand this complex condition – and medical research volunteers are at the heart of this effort.
Psoriasis occurs when T cells – part of the immune system - are triggered and become overactive, thereby speeding up the production of skin cells. Normally, skin cells take around a month to replace themselves, but in individuals diagnosed with psoriasis, this process happens in just a few days. The result is a build-up of cells on the skin’s surface, which creates the signature plaques of the condition.4
Psoriasis flare-ups can be triggered or worsened by a variety of factors, including stress, skin injuries, infections, cold weather and certain medications.5 It is important to note that psoriasis is not contagious, a fact that can be often misunderstood by the public.
The most common type of psoriasis, called plaque psoriasis, appears as raised, red patches covered with a silvery-white build-up of dead skin cells. These plaques often develop on the elbows, knees, scalp and lower back, but are not limited to these locations and can appear anywhere on the body.6
Other forms of psoriasis, such as guttate, inverse, pustular, or erythrodermic psoriasis, present in different ways and can vary in severity. Symptoms tend to flare up in cycles, with periods of remission followed by periods of activity triggered by stress, illness or environmental factors.7
Psoriasis can be much more than a physical condition. Many individuals experience emotional challenges as well, including lowered self-esteem, anxiety or depression, especially given the severity, visibility and pain of the condition.
Day to day life can be affected by itching, flaking, or soreness, and treatment routines can be time-consuming or frustrating. That’s why ongoing research is so important – to find more effective, personalised solutions that help people manage their symptoms with fewer side effects. 8
Psoriasis research has come a long way, but there’s still more to learn. Scientists at REPROCELL are now using real human skin samples to better understand how the disease works and test potential treatments in models that closely mimic real life.
By studying skin from people with and without psoriasis, researchers can identify disease markers, test new therapies, and understand how treatments behave in human tissue – often before they reach clinical trials. None of this would be possible without medical research volunteer support.
1. “Symptoms - Psoriasis.” NHS Choices, NHS, www.nhs.uk/conditions/psoriasis/symptoms/. Accessed 12 Aug. 2025.
2. “Explore the Data.” Global Psoriasis Atlas, www.globalpsoriasisatlas.org/en/explore. Accessed 12 Aug. 2025.
3. “Psoriasis Treatments: How to Get Rid of Psoriasis.” WebMD, WebMD, www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/psoriasis/understanding-psoriasis-treatment. Accessed 12 Aug. 2025.
4. Shah, Aadarsh. “A Guide to Psoriasis.” Top Doctors, Top Doctors, 30 Dec. 2024, www.topdoctors.co.uk/medical-articles/a-guide-to-psoriasis/.
5. McKechnie, Doug. “Psoriasis.” Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment, 26 Apr. 2023, patient.info/skin-conditions/psoriasis-leaflet.
6. Brind’Amour, Katherine. “Different Types of Psoriasis: Pictures and More.” Healthline, Healthline Media, 11 July 2025, www.healthline.com/health/photos-types-psoriasis.
7. McKechnie, Doug. “Psoriasis.” Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment, 26 Apr. 2023, patient.info/skin-conditions/psoriasis-leaflet.
8. Doctor.ndtv.com. “World Psoriasis Day 2024: How Chronic Skin Conditions Affect Psychological Well-Being.” Doctor.Ndtv.Com, 29 Oct. 2024, doctor.ndtv.com/skin/psoriasis-and-mental-health-how-chronic-skin-conditions-affect-psychological-well-being-6710212#:~:text=Psoriasis%20is%20not%20just%20a%20skin%20condition%3B%20it,of%20psoriasis%20extends%20far%20beyond%20the%20physical%20symptoms.