Psoriasis is a chronic skin disease that occurs when skin cells start reproducing much faster than normal, and build up on the surface. The disease is linked to the immune system, the body’s natural protection against infection and toxins. In these patients, the immune system attacks the body’s own healthy cells, mistaking them for cells that don’t belong.

The most common symptoms of psoriasis are thick, red patches known as plaques, and dry silvery scales. These appear most often on the scalp, face, elbows, knees, palms and soles of the feet.