The basic principle: remission vs active phase
- Condition: Active phase (inflamed lesions, red plaques, itching, scaling) — Treatments: Only gentle massage, avoiding affected areas. Everything else — waitCondition: Active phase (inflamed lesions, red plaques, itching, scaling)Treatments: Only gentle massage, avoiding affected areas. Everything else — wait
- Condition: Remission (calm skin, no active lesions for at least 4–8 weeks) — Treatments: Most treatments possible with modificationsCondition: Remission (calm skin, no active lesions for at least 4–8 weeks)Treatments: Most treatments possible with modifications
The Koebner mechanism — the key risk
Koebner phenomenon (isomorphic response): any mechanical trauma to the skin in someone with psoriasis can trigger new psoriatic lesions at that site.
What this means in practice:
- Aggressive peel → may trigger new plaques
- Laser → controlled heat / injury → Koebner risk
- Dermapen → micro-injury → Koebner risk
- Waxing → mechanical skin removal → Koebner risk
- Strong friction/pressure → risk
This doesn't rule these treatments out — but it does call for consultation and modification.
Treatments SAFE for psoriasis
HydraFacial (modified)
A gentle version, without deep extraction, for active lesions. Facial hydration and mild cleansing — safe even with scalp psoriasis (face only).
We skip: The BHA (salicylic) step for sensitive skin in remission → we use a hydrating serum instead.
LED therapy — red and infrared
Red LED (633 nm): Anti-inflammatory, stimulates healing. One of the best complements to psoriasis treatment — reduces inflammation and speeds up regeneration.
Infrared LED (830 nm): Deep penetration → reduces pain and inflammation.
Important: No UV in medical LED lamps — safe for psoriatic skin.
Series: 10–15 sessions, every 2–3 days.
Relaxation massage
Possible with psoriasis, avoiding active lesions.
Technique: Gentler than standard, no friction, with a hydrating oil (no aromatherapy — essential oils can irritate).
Not: Deep tissue massage, cupping — Koebner risk.
Needle-free mesotherapy (electroporation)
The absence of skin puncturing does not rule out the risk of the Koebner phenomenon.
Active ingredients (HA, aloe, niacinamide) applied via electroporation. Hydration plus soothing.
Pedicure and manicure — with a specialist
Psoriasis can affect the nails (nail psoriasis: pitting, yellowing, separation). Specialist podology pedicure is safe — as long as the podologist knows about your psoriasis.
Not: Heavy filing or aggressive removal of thickened skin on active lesions.
Treatments requiring CONSULTATION and caution
Chemical peels — with caution
During remission, with mild peels (20–30% glycolic, mandelic acid):
- Only on areas without active lesions
- Lower concentrations than standard
- Patch test on a small area first
Not on active plaques — this can trigger a Koebner response.
Wax hair removal
Possible during remission, on areas without active lesions.
Not on plaques or irritated skin.
Laser hair removal: possible during remission. Soprano ICE SHR (cooling technology) is better tolerated.
Laser therapy — consultation required
DYE-VL, ClearLift: possible during remission, when there are no active lesions in the treatment area. Dermatological consultation before the first session.
Treatments CONTRAINDICATED for psoriasis
❌ Dermapen / fractional microneedling RF on active lesions — Koebner risk ❌ Mechanical exfoliation (microdermabrasion, scrub) on active lesions ❌ Waxing over active psoriasis ❌ Ablative fractional laser on active lesions ❌ UV sunbeds (may worsen the condition in some types; however, medical UV therapy under dermatological supervision is a TREATMENT — a different application entirely)
Scalp psoriasis — a separate matter
Scalp psoriasis doesn't rule out:
- Trichology treatments (avoiding plaques)
- Hair colouring during remission (though reactions can be stronger)
- Scalp mesotherapy (avoiding active lesions)
Important: Tell your trichologist and cosmetologist about your scalp psoriasis before every treatment.
J'ADORE INSTYTUT — our approach to clients with psoriasis
Every visit with us starts with a consultation. If you have psoriasis:
- Tell us when you book
- Let us know your skin's current condition
- Our specialists will adjust the protocol or suggest a different date
We have clients with psoriasis — and we know how to care for them.
J'ADORE INSTYTUT — Krakow | Warsaw Żelazna | Warsaw Aleje
→ Atopic dermatitis (AZS) — treatments | → LED therapy — phototherapy without UV | → Treatments for skin conditions — a guide | → HydraFacial — gentle cleansing
