What is Psoriasis and what causes it?
Psoriasis is a chronic, systemic, non-contagious autoimmune disease with periodic manifestations in the form of severe skin lesions and dermatitis. The skin manifestations are characterised by red itchy patches with white scales on top. The nails are often affected too. Symptoms on the nail surfaces appear as pitting – tiny depressions in the nail plates, effecting nail shape and nail growth.
The exact causes are still unknown, but have been thoroughly studied. The autoimmune process plays a major role in the development of this condition.
Who does it affect?
Anyone, but mostly adults. All parts of the nail can be involved and affected, including the nail matrix and nail bed.
How can nail technicians help?
There is no cure as of yet – treatment should only be provided by medical professionals.
Condition or no condition, nail technicians play a key role in making clients feel great about their nails. It is perfectly fine to perform cosmetic treatments when working with psoriatic skin or nails providing suitable skin and nail care products are used and fragrances, essential oils or irritants are avoided. Nail technicians may find they experience problems with artificial product adhesion to the natural nail in some client cases.
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