If you’ve been dealing with psoriasis, you’ll know how confusing and overwhelming it can be to figure out which doctor to see. There are so many different specialists, clinics, and treatment options that it can feel impossible to know where to start. You might ask yourself: should I see a general practitioner, a skin specialist, or someone else entirely? And how do I know who will provide the care I actually need?
The truth is, psoriasis is far more than just a skin condition. While the most visible symptoms appear on your skin, psoriasis can affect many other areas of your health. It can cause joint pain, fatigue, and emotional stress, all of which can significantly impact your quality of life. Because of this, seeing the right doctor isn’t just about clearing up patches of skin it’s about getting comprehensive care that addresses the condition from every angle.
Finding the right medical professional can make a huge difference. The right doctor can provide faster relief, recommend treatments that are tailored to your specific type of psoriasis, and help you manage flare-ups before they become severe. They can also guide you on lifestyle changes, coping strategies, and monitoring for related conditions, such as psoriatic arthritis.
In this guide, I’ll take you through the different types of doctors who treat psoriasis, what each specialist can do for you, and how to decide which one to see first. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or have been managing psoriasis for years, understanding your options can empower you to take control of your health and find the care that works best for your body and lifestyle.
Starting with Your GP
For many people, the first point of contact when dealing with psoriasis is their GP. Visiting your GP can be an important first step because they are well placed to listen to your symptoms, examine your skin, and confirm whether what you’re experiencing looks like psoriasis or another skin condition. They can also help rule out other possible causes for your symptoms, which is an important part of getting the right diagnosis.
In cases of mild psoriasis, your GP may be able to manage your condition without the need for a specialist. They can prescribe topical treatments, such as steroid creams or vitamin D analogues, which help reduce inflammation, redness, and scaling. Alongside medication, your GP can provide practical advice on lifestyle measures that may help prevent flare-ups, including stress management, dietary tips, and skin care routines.
However, psoriasis is not always mild. If your symptoms are more severe, widespread, persistent, or significantly affecting your daily life, your GP will usually refer you to a specialist for more targeted care. This is often a dermatologist, who has advanced training in skin conditions and access to a wider range of treatments. Your GP can also coordinate your care if you have other health concerns related to psoriasis, such as joint pain from psoriatic arthritis, ensuring that you receive comprehensive support.
Starting with your GP is not only convenient, but it also provides a solid foundation for your psoriasis care journey. They can help you understand the condition, manage initial symptoms, and guide you toward the next steps in treatment.
Dermatologists: The Skin Experts
Dermatologists are medical doctors who specialise in conditions affecting the skin, hair, and nails. When it comes to psoriasis, they are often the go-to specialists because of their in-depth knowledge and experience with a wide variety of skin disorders. Unlike a GP, a dermatologist can offer a more detailed assessment, identify the specific type of psoriasis you have, and recommend treatments that are targeted to your needs.
One key advantage of seeing a dermatologist is the range of treatment options they can provide. While GPs usually focus on milder, over-the-counter or prescription topical creams, dermatologists can access stronger topical medications that may be more effective for stubborn patches. They can also offer phototherapy (light therapy), which uses controlled doses of ultraviolet light to reduce inflammation and slow the rapid skin cell growth that characterises psoriasis.
For those with moderate to severe psoriasis, or cases that haven’t responded well to GP-prescribed treatments, dermatologists can prescribe systemic medications. These include oral treatments like methotrexate or ciclosporin, as well as advanced biologic therapies. Biologics are targeted treatments that work on the immune system to reduce inflammation and prevent flare-ups, offering significant relief for many people.
A dermatologist doesn’t just treat the skin symptoms they take a holistic approach. They’ll create a personalised treatment plan that considers your type of psoriasis, your lifestyle, and any other health conditions you may have. This tailored approach can help improve your symptoms faster, reduce flare-ups, and ultimately enhance your quality of life. Regular follow-ups with a dermatologist also allow for adjustments in treatment, ensuring you’re always receiving the most effective care.
Why Dermatologists Are Often the First Choice
Psoriasis isn’t a one-size-fits-all condition. It can appear in several forms, including plaque, guttate, pustular, or erythrodermic psoriasis, and each type requires a unique approach to treatment. This variety is one of the main reasons dermatologists are often considered the first choice for managing psoriasis. Their specialised training allows them to quickly recognise the differences between types, identify the severity of your condition, and recommend the most appropriate interventions.
Another important factor is monitoring. Psoriasis treatments often require careful adjustments over time. What works well at first might lose effectiveness, or flare-ups may require a change in approach. Dermatologists have the expertise to track your progress closely, interpreting subtle changes in your skin and adjusting your treatment plan accordingly. This ongoing supervision increases the chances of achieving consistent improvements and long-term control of your symptoms.
But dermatologists don’t just focus on the physical aspects of psoriasis they understand that living with this condition can have a profound impact on your emotional well-being. Chronic skin issues can affect confidence, social interactions, and overall quality of life. A good dermatologist will address these concerns, offering support, coping strategies, and guidance to help you manage the emotional challenges that often accompany psoriasis.
Choosing a dermatologist means opting for a specialist who sees the whole picture. They consider your symptoms, your treatment goals, and the way psoriasis affects your daily life. This comprehensive approach is why many people find that seeing a dermatologist leads to faster relief, more effective treatments, and better overall management of the condition.
Rheumatologists and Psoriatic Arthritis
For some people with psoriasis, the condition goes beyond the skin. Around one in three individuals with psoriasis will develop psoriatic arthritis, a type of inflammatory arthritis that affects the joints and can lead to stiffness, swelling, and pain. If you’ve noticed joint discomfort especially in your fingers, toes, knees, or spine alongside your skin symptoms, it may be time to see a rheumatologist.
Rheumatologists are doctors who specialise in conditions affecting the joints, bones, muscles, and immune system. Their expertise makes them particularly well suited to diagnosing and managing psoriatic arthritis. They often work closely with dermatologists to ensure that both the skin and joint aspects of psoriasis are treated effectively. This coordinated approach is important because joint damage from psoriatic arthritis can be permanent if left untreated.
Seeing a rheumatologist early can make a significant difference. They can recommend medications that reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and slow or prevent joint damage. In some cases, these treatments overlap with those prescribed by dermatologists, such as biologic therapies, which can target both skin and joint symptoms simultaneously.
Beyond medical treatment, rheumatologists also provide guidance on lifestyle adjustments and supportive care to help you manage daily activities and maintain mobility. If you suspect that your psoriasis may be linked to joint pain, requesting a referral to a rheumatologist is a proactive step. Early intervention not only helps reduce discomfort but also improves long-term outcomes, allowing you to maintain a better quality of life while managing both the skin and joint aspects of psoriasis.
Other Specialists Who May Help
Psoriasis doesn’t just affect the skin or joints it can have wide-ranging effects on your overall well-being. Because of this, a multidisciplinary approach can be very beneficial. Depending on your symptoms and lifestyle, other specialists may become important members of your care team.
Psychologists or Counsellors – Living with a chronic skin condition can take a significant toll on mental health. Psoriasis may lead to feelings of self-consciousness, social anxiety, or even depression. Speaking to a psychologist or counsellor can provide coping strategies, help manage stress, and offer emotional support. Addressing the psychological impact of psoriasis is a key part of overall care and can even help reduce flare-ups, as stress is a common trigger for many people.
Dietitians – Nutrition can play a role in managing psoriasis for some individuals. Certain foods may trigger flare-ups or worsen inflammation. A dietitian can assess your diet, identify potential triggers, and help you build a balanced eating plan that supports both your skin health and overall wellness. While diet isn’t a cure, it can be an effective complement to medical treatments.
Phototherapy Clinics – Some people benefit from light therapy, also called phototherapy. These specialised clinics offer controlled doses of ultraviolet light, which can slow down the rapid skin cell growth that causes psoriasis plaques. Phototherapy is often recommended for moderate to severe psoriasis and can be used alongside other treatments prescribed by a dermatologist.
Each of these specialists brings a unique perspective and expertise, and when combined, they help create a more holistic approach to psoriasis care. By addressing not just the physical symptoms but also mental well-being, lifestyle factors, and treatment options, you can gain more control over your condition and improve your quality of life.
Working Together as a Care Team
For many people with psoriasis, managing the condition effectively often requires more than just one doctor. You might see a dermatologist for your skin, a rheumatologist for joint issues, and your GP for regular check-ups or prescription management. Some people may also involve psychologists, dietitians, or phototherapy specialists as part of a broader care network. Each professional brings their own expertise, and when they work together, your care can be much more coordinated and effective.
This teamwork is particularly important because psoriasis is a systemic condition. That means it can affect multiple parts of the body, not just the skin. Joint pain, fatigue, and emotional stress are all common aspects of psoriasis, and treating these in isolation may not fully address the overall impact of the disease. When your doctors communicate with each other and share information about your treatment plan, they can ensure that medications and therapies complement one another, reduce the risk of side effects, and target the condition more comprehensively.
As a patient, you also play a central role in this care team. Keeping a detailed record of your symptoms, triggers, lifestyle factors, and treatment responses can provide valuable insights for your doctors. Notes about flare-ups, stress levels, diet, or sleep patterns help each specialist understand your journey better and make more informed decisions. Being proactive, asking questions, and sharing updates ensures that your care is personalised and that everyone involved is working toward the same goal: managing your psoriasis effectively and improving your quality of life.
By viewing psoriasis management as a team effort where both doctors and patients collaborate you increase your chances of finding the right combination of treatments and strategies that work for your unique situation.
How to Choose the Right Doctor for You
Deciding which doctor to see for psoriasis can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Your starting point often depends on the severity of your symptoms and how much they are affecting your daily life.
If your psoriasis is new or mild, your GP is usually the best place to begin. They can examine your skin, confirm the diagnosis, and recommend initial treatments such as topical creams or ointments. They can also advise you on lifestyle measures to reduce flare-ups and provide guidance on when a referral to a specialist may be needed.
However, if your symptoms are moderate to severe, persistent, or affecting your confidence, work, or social life, booking an appointment directly with a dermatologist can be a more effective step. Dermatologists have the expertise to assess your specific type of psoriasis, offer advanced treatment options, and create a personalised plan designed to suit your skin, lifestyle, and overall health.
If you notice joint pain, stiffness, or swelling alongside your psoriasis, a rheumatologist may be necessary. Early referral is especially important in cases of psoriatic arthritis, as prompt treatment can reduce pain, prevent joint damage, and improve long-term outcomes.
Another key consideration is your comfort and trust in your doctor. A good specialist will take the time to answer your questions, explain treatment options clearly, and involve you in every decision about your care. Feeling heard and supported can make a significant difference in your treatment journey and help you stay consistent with your plan.
Questions You Can Ask Your Doctor
When you visit a doctor for psoriasis, being prepared with questions can make a big difference. It not only helps you understand your condition better but also ensures you feel confident and involved in your treatment decisions. Here are some key questions to consider:
- What type of psoriasis do I have? Understanding whether you have plaque, guttate, pustular, or another form helps you know what to expect and how your treatment plan will be tailored.
- What treatments are available for my condition? Ask about all options, including topical creams, phototherapy, oral medications, and biologics. Understanding the benefits and limitations of each approach helps you make informed choices.
- What side effects should I expect from these treatments? Every treatment comes with potential side effects. Knowing what to watch for allows you to recognise issues early and discuss alternatives if needed.
- How will we track my progress over time? It’s important to know how your doctor will monitor improvements, whether through regular check-ups, photographs, or scoring systems that measure severity.
- Should I see another specialist as well? Depending on your symptoms, your care may involve a rheumatologist, psychologist, dietitian, or other professionals. Asking this question ensures you get the comprehensive care you need.
You might also consider asking about lifestyle factors, stress management, or dietary tips that could help manage flare-ups. Bringing a notebook or keeping a record of your symptoms can make these conversations more productive.
Frequently Asked Questions About Psoriasis
1. What is psoriasis, and what causes it?
Psoriasis is a chronic condition where your immune system speeds up the production of skin cells, causing thick, red, scaly patches. The exact cause isn’t fully clear, but things like stress, infections, certain medications, and genetics can trigger or worsen it. The good news is that psoriasis isn’t contagious, so you can’t pass it to someone else.
2. How do I know which type of psoriasis I have?
There are different types of psoriasis, and each looks a little different. You might have plaque psoriasis, which shows up as raised red patches with silvery scales, or guttate psoriasis, which looks like small, drop-shaped spots. Pustular psoriasis causes white, pus-filled blisters, and erythrodermic psoriasis is a severe form that can cover large areas of your body. A dermatologist can check your skin and tell you exactly which type you have so you can get the right treatment.
3. Can psoriasis affect more than just my skin?
Yes, psoriasis isn’t just a skin condition. About one in three people with psoriasis also develop psoriatic arthritis, which can make your joints stiff, swollen, or painful. It can also affect your mood, confidence, and mental health, causing stress or anxiety. That’s why having a team of specialists, like a dermatologist, rheumatologist, or even a psychologist, can really help you manage all aspects of the condition.
4. What treatments are available for psoriasis?
The treatments you might try depend on how severe your psoriasis is. For milder cases, your doctor may suggest creams, ointments, or gels with steroids or vitamin D. Phototherapy, which uses controlled UV light, can reduce inflammation and scaling. If your psoriasis is more severe, you may need oral medications or biologic therapies that target your immune system. Your doctor will work with you to create a treatment plan that fits your lifestyle and your skin’s needs.
5. Can lifestyle changes help me manage psoriasis?
Absolutely. While lifestyle changes aren’t a cure, they can make a real difference. Managing stress, keeping a healthy weight, avoiding smoking or too much alcohol, and using gentle skin care can help reduce flare-ups. Some people also find that certain foods trigger their symptoms, so a dietitian can help you figure out a diet that supports your skin.
6. When should I see a specialist?
You should see a dermatologist if your psoriasis is spreading, severe, or not improving with treatments from your GP. If you notice joint pain or swelling, it’s a good idea to see a rheumatologist. The sooner you get specialist care, the better your chances of controlling your symptoms and preventing complications.
7. Is psoriasis curable?
Right now, there’s no cure for psoriasis, but the good news is that you can manage it effectively. With the right treatments and support, you can reduce flare-ups, control symptoms, and improve your quality of life. Working closely with your doctors and following a plan tailored to you is the best way to stay on top of your psoriasis.
Final Thought: Taking Control of Your Psoriasis Care
Psoriasis is a condition that needs specialist attention. While your GP can offer valuable support at the start, dermatologists are usually the best doctors to guide your long-term treatment. If you have joint pain too, rheumatologists become an essential part of your care.
Remember, the right doctor for you depends on your symptoms and how psoriasis affects your life. If you’re looking for dedicated support, our Psoriasis Clinic in London provides expert diagnosis and tailored treatment plans to help you take control of your skin health.
References:
1. Gelfand, J.M., et al., 2024. Home Narrowband UV-B Treatment for Psoriasis. JAMA Dermatology. https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamadermatology/fullarticle/2808117
2. Gossec, L., et al., 2024. EULAR Recommendations for the Management of Psoriatic Arthritis. Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases. https://ard.bmj.com/content/annrheumdis/early/2024/03/18/ard-2024-225531.full.pdf
3. Zhu, D., et al., 2023. Self-management of Psoriasis Vulgaris Treatment Burden. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10627634/
4. Ferrara, F., et al., 2024. Therapeutic Advances in Psoriasis: From Biologics to Emerging Therapies. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11417777/
5. Hailey, L.H., 2023. Review Lifestyle Modifications and Nonpharmacologic Interventions in Psoriasis Management. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0149291823001972