From understanding the causes of psoriasis in children to the available treatment & when to seek professional advice, Boots has got you covered
What is psoriasis?
Psoriasis (pronounced suh· rai. uh. suhs) is a long-term (chronic) skin condition that causes red, scaly patches on the skin. The colour of the patches may be different and this depends on the colour of your skin. The exact cause of psoriasis isn’t fully known, but it’s thought to be related to a problem with the immune system where the immune system accidentally attacks healthy skin cells. This leads to more skin cells being overproduced, which causes the patches on the skin. Everyday stress, infections, and even cold weather can be potential triggers, so keeping an eye on your child's environment and wellbeing is crucial. There are usually times that your child may have no symptoms or mild symptoms, which are followed by times when their symptoms can get more severe.
Psoriasis mainly affects skin, but it can also affect the nails and the joints in some cases. It’s important to know that psoriasis isn’t contagious so it can’t be caught or spread.
Psoriasis in babies and young children is relatively rare, but it’s estimated that a third of people develop it before the age of 16.
What does psoriasis in babies & children look like?
It’s rare for babies to have psoriasis, especially if there isn’t a family history. Babies can develop psoriasis in the nappy area and this usually looks red and shiny, with minimal scales. There’s usually a clear mark where psoriasis stops and where their regular skin starts.
In children, psoriasis often appears as raised plaques or patches of skin that are red, crusty, itchy and flaky. These patches might be itchy, leading to discomfort for your little one. These patches, sometimes referred to as plaques, can vary in size and appearance. Sometimes the thickened areas of skin can crack and bleed, especially if they’ve been scratched or if they’re over flexible areas like elbows and knees.
While it might be worrying, recognising the signs early can lead to timely interventions. It's important to remember that a diagnosis should be made by a healthcare professional, so if you think your child has psoriasis, speak to your GP.
What are the treatments for psoriasis in children?
Finding the right treatment for your child's psoriasis requires collaboration with healthcare professionals. You can speak to your GP who can help you determine which treatment is the most suitable for your child. For more severe symptoms, your GP may refer your child for secondary care, which is care involving specialists like a dermatologist. They might recommend:
• Topical treatments which are applied directly to the affected areas of the skin
• Phototherapy, a form of light therapy using certain types of ultraviolet light
• Systemic medications which are oral and injected medications that work from the inside out throughout the entire body
If your child has been diagnosed with plaque psoriasis by a medical professional, Boots Online Doctor Psoriasis Treatment service can help support you with topical treatment*, following an online consultation.
What topical products can be used for children with psoriasis?
Topical treatments like moisturisers and emollients are key for helping to hydrate and soothe your child’s skin. Although there isn’t a cure for psoriasis, there are some products which may help relieve some symptoms associated with it, such as itching and flaking. These treatments may help, but they aren’t a replacement for treatment from your GP, skincare specialist or Boots Online Doctor. There are different moisturisers and emollients to choose from and every child is different, so finding what works for your child.
Speaking to your GP or dermatologist is important for finding a product that’s suitable for you, but for those with mild symptoms, here are some topical products which may help:
Boots Dermacare Psoriasis Treatment Cream
• Size: 30ml
• Suitable for daily use
• Suitable for infants and children from the age of one month
This steroid free cream helps in the treatment and prevention of mild to moderate psoriasis symptoms. It can help to reduce itching, redness, scaling and hardening of the skin. It uses Ectoin, which is a natural ingredient that can help to protect your skin cells.
E45 Cream
• Size: 350g
• Suitable for daily use
• Suitable for infants from the age of one month
E45 Cream is clinically proven to help soothe itching, flaking and dry skin. It can be used to help keep your skin soothed, protected and hydrated. The formula is perfume-free, gentle and non-greasy which means it's quickly absorbed into the skin.
Dermalex Scalp Psoriasis Treatment Gel
• Size: 75g
• Suitable for children who are six years old or older
• Suitable for daily use
Dermalex Scalp Psoriasis Treatment Gel is steroid free, dermatologically tested and easily absorbed. It helps to treat mild to moderate psoriasis symptoms on the scalp, like itching, irritation, redness, and dandruff-like flaking. It isn’t visible in the hair and won’t stain your clothes.
Boots Dermacare Psoriasis Bundle
• Includes the Boots Dermacare Psoriasis Treatment Cream (30ml) and the Boots Dermacare Daily Moisturising Shower Cream (250ml)
• Suitable for sensitive skin
• Suitable for daily use
Help manage your child's condition with this bundle which includes a treatment cream and a moisturising shower cream. The treatment cream helps with the treatment and prevention of mild to moderate psoriasis symptoms and the shower cream helps with the management of very dry skin.
Types of psoriasis
There are many different types of psoriasis, each with its own features. Among these, plaque psoriasis is the most common found in children and in adults. Understanding the different types of psoriasis can help you seek the appropriate treatment and care for your little one. If you think your child has any type of psoriasis, it’s important to speak to your GP.
Plaque psoriasis
Plaque psoriasis is the most common type, affecting both children and adults. It usually appears as raised, red patches covered with silvery scales, often referred to as plaques. This can vary from one child to another. These plaques can be itchy and uncomfortable for children, while also varying in severity. Plaque psoriasis can typically be found on the elbows, knees, scalp and lower back. Treating this type can involve topical creams, light therapy, or systemic medications under the guidance of healthcare professionals.
Guttate psoriasis
Guttate psoriasis sometimes occurs after streptococcal throat infections, like strep throat. In some cases, other bacterial or viral infections can cause guttate psoriasis. It appears as small, pink-red spots resembling drops of water across the body. While it's more common in children, teenagers and young adults, its sudden onset can be worrying. Guttate psoriasis can sometimes resolve on its own, but some people may then develop plaque psoriasis.
Inverse psoriasis
Inverse psoriasis tends to affect areas where skin folds or touches, such as the armpits or groin. Inverse psoriasis can appear as smooth, red and inflamed patches that are often shiny and can cause discomfort due to friction and moisture. Keeping the affected areas dry and using topical treatments as advised by your healthcare professional can help provide relief.
Scalp psoriasis
Scalp psoriasis is a type of plaque psoriasis that can affect the whole scalp or just part of the scalp. It causes patches of skin covered in thick scales which can cause itchiness, flaking and discomfort. Some people find it very itchy, while some people have no discomfort. In some extreme cases, it can cause temporary hair loss. Treatment includes medicated shampoos and topical treatments.
Nail psoriasis
This affects the nails and can cause changes in the way they look. You might see ridges, tiny dents, and discolouration in your child’s fingers and toenails. Their nails might also grow abnormally.
Psoriatic arthritis
Psoriatic arthritis develops in some children who have psoriasis. It makes the affected joints swollen, stiff and painful. Most people experience psoriasis in their skin before they notice any symptoms in their joints. Like psoriasis, it's thought to be related to a problem with the immune system where the immune system accidentally attacks healthy tissue.
Symptoms include swelling, pain and stiffness in any joint in the body including:
• Hands
• Feet
• Knees
• Elbows
• Neck and spine
If your child complains of painful joints and there’s a family history of psoriasis (even if your child is showing no symptoms of psoriasis), it’s worth mentioning this to your GP. Treatment for psoriatic arthritis includes physiotherapy and daily exercise to help maintain your child’s mobility and help them to have an active childhood.
How can parents help?
Psoriasis can affect you as a parent, guardian or caregiver. You might feel guilty, frustrated or struggle to cope with it at times. Your support and understanding play a big role in your child's journey with psoriasis. You can help by:
• Establishing a consistent skincare routine that involves gentle cleansing and moisturising
• Involving children in their daily skincare routines to help give them a sense of control over their condition
• Helping your child to choose comfortable clothing that can help minimise any irritation. Loose-fitting and breathable fabrics like cotton can help reduce friction and discomfort
• Educating friends, family and teachers about psoriasis to help create a supportive environment for your child
• Making treatments as normal as possible so that it’s part of their daily routine
Talking to your child about psoriasis can also help them cope better. You can include conversations about:
• The importance of keeping up with treatments
• The causes of psoriasis – including that it’s no one’s fault, it’s not contagious and they’re not alone
Can I predict a flare-up?
While psoriasis is unpredictable, awareness of potential triggers can help minimise their impact. There isn’t a way of predicting flare-ups or predicting what’ll happen next with psoriasis, so its important not to stress. Your child may pick up on any concerns you may have, which may even cause a flare-up, so a relaxed attitude where possible can help.
By maintaining a healthy lifestyle, reducing everyday stress and working with healthcare professionals to find suitable treatment, you can work towards reducing the frequency and severity of flare-ups. Understanding the causes, recognising the appearance and exploring treatments for psoriasis in children can help make a difference in your child’s journey.
