Skin conditions such as psoriasis can be treated directly, because the part affected (the skin) is on the outside. In some people this direct action isn't enough and medication has to be taken which works on the body’s internal immune system to damp it down. There is still a lot to find out about psoriasis and several new treatments are being developed. It is important to remember that psoriasis treatments available in each country can vary.

• The use of emollients (moisturisers) and topical medication (ointments, creams and gels) are an important part of treatment. They will probably be the first thing that your doctor prescribes. For most people with psoriasis these will be the best treatments for keeping psoriasis under control.

• Light therapy may be used as it has a direct action on parts of the skin but is not suitable for everyone and needs to be carefully monitored. This is only available at special centres. Sunbeds (tanning beds) do not work in the same way.

• There is a range of medicines that can be prescribed by a specialist doctor (dermatologist). They are taken as tablets or injections. These medicines are only used under certain conditions and the effects are carefully monitored by your doctor.

There’s lots to think about when making decisions about your treatment such as the practicalities of using or taking a treatment and if there are any side-effects.

You may decide to use a less effective treatment if you are happy enough with your skin rather than use a more successful treatment that you are not so happy using.