Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a long-term skin condition that causes patches of dry, flaky, scaly skin, often on the elbows, knees and scalp. Read more about psoriasis →
If symptoms are sudden, severe or getting worse, contact your GP or NHS 111.
Where are you up to?
The NHS reports waiting times by specialty, not by individual condition, so this is the dermatology wait, updated August 2026. Enter a postcode to see the hospitals near you.
dermatology waiting times by hospital
| Trust | Location | Typical wait |
|---|---|---|
| East Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust | Hastings | 4 weeks |
| Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust | Bradford | 4 weeks |
| The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust | Wolverhampton | 5 weeks |
| University Hospitals of Morecambe Bay NHS Foundation Trust | Westmorland and Furness | 5 weeks |
| Harrogate and District NHS Foundation Trust | North Yorkshire | 5 weeks |
| Milton Keynes University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust | Milton Keynes | 5 weeks |
| University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust | Leicester | 6 weeks |
| Mid Yorkshire Teaching NHS Trust | Wakefield | 6 weeks |
About psoriasis
Psoriasis is a long-term skin condition that causes patches of dry, flaky, scaly skin, often on the elbows, knees and scalp, though it can appear anywhere. The patches can be itchy or sore. It happens because skin cells are made too quickly and build up on the surface. It is not contagious. For some people it is mild, for others it is more widespread, and it can flare up and settle down over time. Some people with psoriasis also get joint pain (psoriatic arthritis).
How it is treated
Most psoriasis is managed with creams and ointments from a GP, such as moisturisers, vitamin D-based creams and mild steroid creams. If these are not enough, a GP can refer you to a dermatologist for light therapy (controlled ultraviolet light) or stronger tablet or injection treatments that calm the overactive immune response. Treatment is chosen to suit how much skin is affected and how it is affecting your life.
Living with it
Psoriasis is usually a lifelong condition that is controlled rather than cured, so most people use treatments on and off as patches flare and settle. Keeping the skin moisturised helps, and it is worth noting anything that seems to trigger a flare. Tell your GP if the patches spread, become sore, or if your joints start to hurt, as treatment can be stepped up and a specialist referral arranged.
Sources: NHS: Psoriasis. Last updated October 2026.
General information only, not medical advice. Wait or Pay is independent and is not the NHS. Your GP decides what care, if any, you need.