Health and Me

Supriya Ramesh

The Truth About Vitamin Therapy for Perfect Skin and Lush Hair

Credits: Canva

From glossy Instagram reels to glossy foreheads, <span>vitamin therapy</span> has become the darling of beauty trends. It promises “instant glow” and “Rapunzel hair”, often in the form of IV drips or colourful capsules. But is it really a miracle elixir or just a very expensive placebo with better marketing? Dermatologists say it is a bit of both.

Vitamin therapy acts as a protective shield for your cells. According to Dr Pravin Banodkar, Co-Founder and Lead Dermatologist at Skin Beyond Borders, our skin and hair face daily assaults from pollution and dust to stress and hormonal changes. Over time, these factors wear down cell health, slow growth, and accelerate signs of ageing. For skin, that means hyperpigmentation and dullness. For hair, it often means thinning and increased shedding.

Vitamin therapy works by giving cells a protective boost through <span>antioxidants</span>, which fight off damage and keep things running smoothly. “It helps reverse some of the impact by preventing damage to hair cells and boosting repair processes,” Dr Banodkar explains.

<h3>When Life Gets in the Way of Nutrition</h3>

If your diet often looks like coffee for breakfast, desk snacks for lunch, and “something quick” for dinner, your skin and hair may already be paying the price. Dr Banodkar says that people with hectic routines often develop deficiencies in vitamins A, C, D, and essential <span>micronutrients</span>. Left unchecked, these gaps can shorten the <span>hair growth</span> cycle and weaken the skin’s barrier function.

For such cases, vitamin therapy – oral, topical, or even targeted IV – can help fill the gaps. But if you already eat a <span>balanced diet</span> and nourish yourself consistently, “high-dose supplementation and IV drips offer no extra benefit,” he adds. Meaning, if your body is not missing it, megadoses will not suddenly help.

One of the buzzier developments in dermatology is the “micronutrient concept”, feeding the hair bulb with targeted nutrients to prolong the growth phase (known as the anagen phase). Examples include:

<ul><li>Vitamin A: Promotes skin cell turnover, reduces acne</li><li>Vitamin C: Boosts <span rel="noindex">collagen</span> production, brightens skin</li><li>Vitamin E: Antioxidant that aids repair</li><li><span rel="noindex">Biotin</span> (B7): Supports hair and nail strength</li><li>Vitamin D: Crucial for follicle health and immune function</li><li>Niacin (B3): Improves skin texture and barrier</li></ul>

Used strategically, these can improve skin repair and help hair grow longer before shedding. But more is not always better.

Dr Aseem Sharma, Director and Chief Dermatologist at Skin Saga Centre for Dermatology, points out that vitamin therapy has its place but not as a monthly beauty ritual for those without a medical need. “If you are genuinely deficient in D, B12, or iron, correcting that can transform skin and hair. But topping up levels that are already normal rarely produces dramatic results,” he says.

Biotin, for example, is often marketed as the holy grail for hair growth. In reality, unless you are deficient, which is rare in healthy adults, it won’t magically transform thin hair into thick locks. Hair growth depends on protein intake, hormones, follicle health, and micronutrients working together.

Vitami and glutathione can protect skin and hair from <span>oxidative stress</span>, the kind that speeds up ageing and damages follicles. But their benefits plateau once the body has enough. Overuse can even cause side effects, especially with fat-soluble vitamins that linger in the system. In other words, popping a week’s worth of supplements in one sitting won’t give you a week’s worth of glow; it might just give you an upset stomach.

<h3>Should You Book That Vitamin Drip?</h3>

Both Dr Banodkar and Dr Sharma agree: start with your diet. Focus on whole foods, adequate protein, and a rainbow of fruits and vegetables. Address specific deficiencies through tests, not guesswork. Save the IV drips for genuine medical needs, not pre-party touch-ups.

Vitamin therapy can be a useful support act, especially for people with nutritional gaps, malabsorption issues, or recovery needs. But it is not the headliner. Your real glow comes from a healthy lifestyle, consistent skincare, and, yes, the occasional salad that is not just for show.

Health Conditions A-Z

health

vitamin therapy

hair growth

antioxidants

micronutrients

biotin

collagen

hair thinning

oxidative stress

balanced diet

Skin & Hair

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From glossy Instagram reels to glossy foreheads, vitamin therapy has become the darling of beauty trends. It promises “instant glow” and “Rapunzel hair”, often in the form of IV drips or colourful capsules. But is it really a miracle elixir or just a very expensive placebo with better marketing? Dermatologists say it is a bit of both.Vitamin therapy acts as a protective shield for your cells. According to Dr Pravin Banodkar, Co-Founder and Lead Dermatologist at Skin Beyond Borders, our skin and hair face daily assaults from pollution and dust to stress and hormonal changes. Over time, these factors wear down cell health, slow growth, and accelerate signs of ageing. For skin, that means hyperpigmentation and dullness. For hair, it often means thinning and increased shedding.Vitamin therapy works by giving cells a protective boost through antioxidants, which fight off damage and keep things running smoothly. “It helps reverse some of the impact by preventing damage to hair cells and boosting repair processes,” Dr Banodkar explains.When Life Gets in the Way of NutritionIf your diet often looks like coffee for breakfast, desk snacks for lunch, and “something quick” for dinner, your skin and hair may already be paying the price. Dr Banodkar says that people with hectic routines often develop deficiencies in vitamins A, C, D, and essential micronutrients. Left unchecked, these gaps can shorten the hair growth cycle and weaken the skin’s barrier function.For such cases, vitamin therapy – oral, topical, or even targeted IV – can help fill the gaps. But if you already eat a balanced diet and nourish yourself consistently, “high-dose supplementation and IV drips offer no extra benefit,” he adds. Meaning, if your body is not missing it, megadoses will not suddenly help.MicronutrientsOne of the buzzier developments in dermatology is the “micronutrient concept”, feeding the hair bulb with targeted nutrients to prolong the growth phase (known as the anagen phase). Examples include:Vitamin A: Promotes skin cell turnover, reduces acneVitamin C: Boosts collagen production, brightens skinVitamin E: Antioxidant that aids repairBiotin (B7): Supports hair and nail strengthVitamin D: Crucial for follicle health and immune functionNiacin (B3): Improves skin texture and barrierUsed strategically, these can improve skin repair and help hair grow longer before shedding. But more is not always better.The Hype vs The Hard TruthDr Aseem Sharma, Director and Chief Dermatologist at Skin Saga Centre for Dermatology, points out that vitamin therapy has its place but not as a monthly beauty ritual for those without a medical need. “If you are genuinely deficient in D, B12, or iron, correcting that can transform skin and hair. But topping up levels that are already normal rarely produces dramatic results,” he says.Biotin, for example, is often marketed as the holy grail for hair growth. In reality, unless you are deficient, which is rare in healthy adults, it won’t magically transform thin hair into thick locks. Hair growth depends on protein intake, hormones, follicle health, and micronutrients working together.Antioxidants Vitami and glutathione can protect skin and hair from oxidative stress, the kind that speeds up ageing and damages follicles. But their benefits plateau once the body has enough. Overuse can even cause side effects, especially with fat-soluble vitamins that linger in the system. In other words, popping a week’s worth of supplements in one sitting won’t give you a week’s worth of glow; it might just give you an upset stomach.Should You Book That Vitamin Drip?Both Dr Banodkar and Dr Sharma agree: start with your diet. Focus on whole foods, adequate protein, and a rainbow of fruits and vegetables. Address specific deficiencies through tests, not guesswork. Save the IV drips for genuine medical needs, not pre-party touch-ups.Vitamin therapy can be a useful support act, especially for people with nutritional gaps, malabsorption issues, or recovery needs. But it is not the headliner. Your real glow comes from a healthy lifestyle, consistent skincare, and, yes, the occasional salad that is not just for show.

the truth about vitamin therapy for perfect skin and lush hair

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During a <span>heatwave</span>, adequate <span>hydration</span> becomes a health priority rather than a casual choice. High temperatures increase the body’s fluid loss through sweat, and without sufficient <span>water intake</span>, the risk of <span>dehydration</span> and heat-related illnesses rises significantly.

<h3>The Heatwave Hydration Rule</h3>The <span>NHS</span> says your daily water needs depend on a few factors like your body weight, activity levels, and how much you are <span>sweating</span> like a contestant in a chilli-eating contest. When the mercury rises, so should your water intake. In short, a balmy 32 degrees Celsius is not the day to sip daintily on a single glass of H2O.

According to Dr Sonali Ruder, who works as an emergency doctor, a good general rule is to drink about half your body weight in ounces of water. For example, if you weigh 150 pounds (around 68 kg), that is roughly 75 ounces (just over 2 litres) spread throughout the day. But if you are jogging in the park, hauling shopping in the midday sun, or simply existing in a non-air-conditioned flat, you will need to top that up.

Pregnant or breastfeeding? Your body’s running on extra hydration demands, so keep the bottle handy.

<h3>Tips to Keep the Water Flowing</h3>The NHS recommends sticking to plain water for the best hydration hit. Chugging in big gulps is not as helpful as sipping regularly, so think of yourself as a plant that needs steady watering. If you have been sweating more than usual, from exercise or just standing still in the heat, up your intake.

Invest in a large, insulated bottle that keeps your drink icy cold, and take it everywhere. You are more likely to sip without thinking if it is right there on your desk, in your bag, or even next to the kettle.

<h3>The Dark Side of Dehydration</h3>Skipping water in a heatwave is like forgetting to charge your phone before a long day, except your body is much less forgiving. Dehydration happens when you are losing more fluids than you are taking in. Without enough water, your body cannot function at its best.

<strong>Signs you might be running on empty include:</strong>

<ul><li>Thirst (obvious, but often ignored)</li><li>Dark yellow or strong-smelling urine</li><li>Headaches and dizziness</li><li>Fatigue or confusion</li><li>Dry mouth, lips, and eyes</li></ul>

Left unchecked, dehydration can lead to heat exhaustion or heatstroke, which is a fast-track ticket to the hospital.

Surprisingly, yes. While staying hydrated is crucial, overhydrating can also cause problems. Drinking far too much water in a short space of time can dilute the <span>sodium in your blood</span>, leading to a condition called <span>hyponatraemia</span>. Symptoms include nausea, headaches, confusion, and, in extreme cases, seizures.

This is rare, but it is worth knowing that balance is key. Your goal is steady hydration, not winning a personal best in “litres consumed in an hour”. In the <span>British heatwave</span>, your best defence is a smart hydration plan. Sip water consistently, up your intake if you are sweating, and pay attention to your body’s signals. Keep your urine pale, your energy steady, and your insulated bottle close by.

heatwave

hydration

dehydration

water intake

overhydration

hyponatraemia

sweating

British heatwave

sodium in your blood

During a heatwave, adequate hydration becomes a health priority rather than a casual choice. High temperatures increase the body’s fluid loss through sweat, and without sufficient water intake, the risk of dehydration and heat-related illnesses rises significantly.The Heatwave Hydration RuleThe NHS says your daily water needs depend on a few factors like your body weight, activity levels, and how much you are sweating like a contestant in a chilli-eating contest. When the mercury rises, so should your water intake. In short, a balmy 32 degrees Celsius is not the day to sip daintily on a single glass of H2O.According to Dr Sonali Ruder, who works as an emergency doctor, a good general rule is to drink about half your body weight in ounces of water. For example, if you weigh 150 pounds (around 68 kg), that is roughly 75 ounces (just over 2 litres) spread throughout the day. But if you are jogging in the park, hauling shopping in the midday sun, or simply existing in a non-air-conditioned flat, you will need to top that up.Pregnant or breastfeeding? Your body’s running on extra hydration demands, so keep the bottle handy.Tips to Keep the Water FlowingThe NHS recommends sticking to plain water for the best hydration hit. Chugging in big gulps is not as helpful as sipping regularly, so think of yourself as a plant that needs steady watering. If you have been sweating more than usual, from exercise or just standing still in the heat, up your intake.Invest in a large, insulated bottle that keeps your drink icy cold, and take it everywhere. You are more likely to sip without thinking if it is right there on your desk, in your bag, or even next to the kettle.The Dark Side of DehydrationSkipping water in a heatwave is like forgetting to charge your phone before a long day, except your body is much less forgiving. Dehydration happens when you are losing more fluids than you are taking in. Without enough water, your body cannot function at its best.Signs you might be running on empty include:Thirst (obvious, but often ignored)Dark yellow or strong-smelling urineHeadaches and dizzinessFatigue or confusionDry mouth, lips, and eyesLeft unchecked, dehydration can lead to heat exhaustion or heatstroke, which is a fast-track ticket to the hospital.Can You Overdo It?Surprisingly, yes. While staying hydrated is crucial, overhydrating can also cause problems. Drinking far too much water in a short space of time can dilute the sodium in your blood, leading to a condition called hyponatraemia. Symptoms include nausea, headaches, confusion, and, in extreme cases, seizures.This is rare, but it is worth knowing that balance is key. Your goal is steady hydration, not winning a personal best in “litres consumed in an hour”. In the British heatwave, your best defence is a smart hydration plan. Sip water consistently, up your intake if you are sweating, and pay attention to your body’s signals. Keep your urine pale, your energy steady, and your insulated bottle close by.

attention, brits! this is how much water you should really be glugging in a heatwave

‘Grey’s Anatomy’ Star Opens Up About Hashimoto’s Hypothyroidism: Know How This Autoimmune Disorder Can Impact Body and Mind

Credits:  camillaluddington/Instagram, Canva

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On her “Call It What It Is” podcast with co-star <span>Jessica Capshaw</span>, Grey’s Anatomy star <span>Camilla Luddington</span> revealed she had recently been diagnosed with <span>Hashimoto</span>’s hypothyroidism, an autoimmune condition that quietly messes with your thyroid and, by extension, your entire energy system.

Best known as Dr Jo Wilson, the 41-year-old Luddington admitted she had brushed off her constant tiredness, sluggishness, and need to curl up in bed as signs of getting older or hitting perimenopause. “Makes you a little slothy,” she joked, only half-serious. The truth was more complex and involved a surprisingly common yet under-discussed health disorder.

<h3>When “just tired” is something more</h3>

It started with a routine blood test. Her doctor spotted “one little thing” and, before she knew it, dropped the phrase “autoimmune disease” into the conversation. But the reassurance came quickly: Hashimoto’s is very common, especially among women in middle age.

Still, common does not mean harmless. Reportedly, Hashimoto’s slowly attacks the <span>thyroid gland</span>, the butterfly-shaped organ at the base of your neck that produces hormones controlling metabolism, temperature regulation, and a surprising list of bodily functions. Over time, the immune system’s misguided attack leads to a drop in hormone production, setting the stage for hypothyroidism.

<h3>The symptoms</h3><span>Fatigue</span>, dry skin, weight gain, and do not forget the cold intolerance, hair loss, and brain fog. According to the Mayo Clinic, these are just the tip of the symptom iceberg for Hashimoto’s, which can also cause constipation, muscle aches, joint pain, irregular menstrual cycles, <span>depression</span>, brittle nails, and even an enlarged thyroid (goitre). Sometimes symptoms creep in so gradually that people do not realise something is wrong. 

Luddington recognised several of these signs in hindsight, though she had been quick to explain them away. Now, with a diagnosis in hand, she’s on medication and back to exercising — a reminder that treatment can help restore some balance, even if there’s no cure.

Hashimoto’s can strike anyone, but middle-aged women top the risk list. Genetics may be part of the puzzle, along with environmental triggers like infections, chronic stress, or even radiation exposure. 

And while the disease typically develops slowly, its reach is wide. If untreated, it can snowball into complications like heart problems, fertility issues, poor pregnancy outcomes, or a rare and life-threatening state called myxedema, where extreme hypothyroidism leads to unconsciousness.

<h3>The mental health connection</h3>Hashimoto’s is not just a physical game-changer. Because thyroid hormones influence brain chemistry, untreated hypothyroidism can cause depression, anxiety, and severe mood changes. Luddington herself described feeling constantly run down, with a fatigue so deep it impacted her day-to-day life. This mental strain often gets overlooked, especially when symptoms overlap with other conditions.

Reportedly, thyroid hormone replacement therapy is the gold standard for treatment, often in the form of a daily pill that restores hormone levels. When managed well, it can make symptoms fade into the background. Lifestyle adjustments, such as regular exercise, good sleep habits, and balanced nutrition, can also help.

Luddington’s story is proof that a proper diagnosis can be life-changing and that even those with hectic Hollywood schedules need to listen to their bodies.

<h3>Why you shouldn’t ignore “little” symptoms</h3>

Feeling tired is not unusual. But when exhaustion comes with hair loss, weight changes, and a tendency to wear sweaters in 25-degree weather, it is worth checking your thyroid. As Luddington learnt, what seems like ordinary wear and tear can sometimes be a hormonal SOS.

If left untreated, Hashimoto’s can quietly chip away at your health for years, leading to cardiovascular risks, mental health struggles, and long-term organ strain. That is why timely diagnosis and treatment are not just medical niceties; they are essential.

The message is simple: fatigue is not always “just life”. Sometimes, it is your body asking for help and that call deserves an answer.

camilla luddington

autoimmune disorder

thyroid gland

fatigue

goiter

hypothyroidism symptoms

hashimoto

depression

Call It What It Is

Jessica Capshaw

On her “Call It What It Is” podcast with co-star Jessica Capshaw, Grey’s Anatomy star Camilla Luddington revealed she had recently been diagnosed with Hashimoto’s hypothyroidism, an autoimmune condition that quietly messes with your thyroid and, by extension, your entire energy system.Best known as Dr Jo Wilson, the 41-year-old Luddington admitted she had brushed off her constant tiredness, sluggishness, and need to curl up in bed as signs of getting older or hitting perimenopause. “Makes you a little slothy,” she joked, only half-serious. The truth was more complex and involved a surprisingly common yet under-discussed health disorder.When “just tired” is something moreIt started with a routine blood test. Her doctor spotted “one little thing” and, before she knew it, dropped the phrase “autoimmune disease” into the conversation. But the reassurance came quickly: Hashimoto’s is very common, especially among women in middle age.Still, common does not mean harmless. Reportedly, Hashimoto’s slowly attacks the thyroid gland, the butterfly-shaped organ at the base of your neck that produces hormones controlling metabolism, temperature regulation, and a surprising list of bodily functions. Over time, the immune system’s misguided attack leads to a drop in hormone production, setting the stage for hypothyroidism.The symptomsFatigue, dry skin, weight gain, and do not forget the cold intolerance, hair loss, and brain fog. According to the Mayo Clinic, these are just the tip of the symptom iceberg for Hashimoto’s, which can also cause constipation, muscle aches, joint pain, irregular menstrual cycles, depression, brittle nails, and even an enlarged thyroid (goitre). Sometimes symptoms creep in so gradually that people do not realise something is wrong. Luddington recognised several of these signs in hindsight, though she had been quick to explain them away. Now, with a diagnosis in hand, she’s on medication and back to exercising — a reminder that treatment can help restore some balance, even if there’s no cure.Watch the video here:           View this post on Instagram            A post shared by Camilla Luddington (@camillaluddington)]]>Who’s at risk and whyHashimoto’s can strike anyone, but middle-aged women top the risk list. Genetics may be part of the puzzle, along with environmental triggers like infections, chronic stress, or even radiation exposure. And while the disease typically develops slowly, its reach is wide. If untreated, it can snowball into complications like heart problems, fertility issues, poor pregnancy outcomes, or a rare and life-threatening state called myxedema, where extreme hypothyroidism leads to unconsciousness.The mental health connectionHashimoto’s is not just a physical game-changer. Because thyroid hormones influence brain chemistry, untreated hypothyroidism can cause depression, anxiety, and severe mood changes. Luddington herself described feeling constantly run down, with a fatigue so deep it impacted her day-to-day life. This mental strain often gets overlooked, especially when symptoms overlap with other conditions.Treatment that works Reportedly, thyroid hormone replacement therapy is the gold standard for treatment, often in the form of a daily pill that restores hormone levels. When managed well, it can make symptoms fade into the background. Lifestyle adjustments, such as regular exercise, good sleep habits, and balanced nutrition, can also help.Luddington’s story is proof that a proper diagnosis can be life-changing and that even those with hectic Hollywood schedules need to listen to their bodies.Why you shouldn’t ignore “little” symptomsFeeling tired is not unusual. But when exhaustion comes with hair loss, weight changes, and a tendency to wear sweaters in 25-degree weather, it is worth checking your thyroid. As Luddington learnt, what seems like ordinary wear and tear can sometimes be a hormonal SOS.If left untreated, Hashimoto’s can quietly chip away at your health for years, leading to cardiovascular risks, mental health struggles, and long-term organ strain. That is why timely diagnosis and treatment are not just medical niceties; they are essential.The message is simple: fatigue is not always “just life”. Sometimes, it is your body asking for help and that call deserves an answer.

‘grey’s anatomy’ star opens up about hashimoto’s hypothyroidism: know how this autoimmune disorder can impact body and mind

What Causes Epilepsy? 5 Common Reasons Why It Happens

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You spot an itchy patch, a flaky scalp, or a rash after a bad week and think, “It’s probably nothing. Maybe I just need a better moisturiser.” But sometimes, skin changes are like quiet signs from your immune system, and ignoring them could mean missing a chronic condition hiding in plain sight: <span>psoriasis</span>.

Psoriasis is a chronic <span>autoimmune</span> disease whose symptoms are often mistaken for everyday skin issues. For light skin tones, it can show up red or pink with a silvery white scale; on darker skin tones, it might look purplish, grey, or dark brown, with scaling that’s less obvious. 

Dr K R Sharmatha, Senior Consultant, Dermatology, SIMS Hospital, Chennai, says that because psoriasis often hides behind myths, it’s misdiagnosed as something else. So, let’s debunk nine common misconceptions that are actually signs you might have psoriasis, not just a skin infection.

<strong>1. It’s dry skin; a moisturiser will fix it</strong>

Early psoriasis can look like stubborn red or scaly patches on knees, back, scalp, or elbows, resulting in silvery-white scales on inflamed skin. Moisturisers won’t cut it; targeted treatments and light therapy are the real solutions.

<strong>2. If it itches, it’s probably <span rel="noindex">eczema</span></strong>

Psoriasis can itch like eczema, but it’s not just a surface problem. The itching can cause burning and pain, with flare-ups that feel deep and relentless.

<strong>3. Flaky scalp = dandruff</strong>

Scalp psoriasis is thicker, with defined plaques and red blotches. Medicated shampoos containing coal tar or salicylic acid can help, but it needs proper diagnosis first.

<strong>4. Temporary allergy rash after illness or stress</strong>

After a sore throat, fever, or a rough life event, small teardrop-shaped red lesions might appear. This is often misread as an allergy rash, but it could be <span>guttate psoriasis</span>, triggered by immune stressors and treatable with immune-regulating medication and UV therapy.

<strong>5. Nail crumbling means vitamin deficiency</strong>

Yellow nails, tiny dents, or separation from the nail bed could mean nail psoriasis. It can even signal <span>psoriatic arthritis</span>, an inflammatory joint condition.

<strong>6. Shiny red patches are sweat rash or fungal infections</strong>

Inverse psoriasis shows up as red, shiny patches without scaling, often in the groin, underarms, or under breasts. Its appearance fools people into thinking it’s a sweat rash or fungal infection. Gentle cleansers and prescription creams can help.

<strong>7. Skin issues and joint pain aren’t connected</strong>

Think again. Persistent stiffness or pain in fingers and knees can be psoriatic arthritis, which may show up without visible <span>skin patches</span>.

<strong>8. If it’s not visible, it’s not serious</strong>

Psoriasis can affect hidden spots like the inner thighs or inside the mouth, severely impacting quality of life and requiring customised treatment.

<strong>9. If it runs in the family, you’re stuck with it</strong>

Genetics can play a role, but <span>early intervention</span> reduces severity and prevents complications.

Dr Vaaruni Ravishankar, Consultant Dermatologist, MGM Healthcare, Chennai, explains that psoriasis can be silent, sometimes showing up as fissured palms and soles, oozing skin, persistent groin or armpit rashes, or rough, pitted nails. It can even come disguised as arthritis or link up with autoimmune gut issues.

However, don’t panic, self-treat, or ignore it. Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition triggered by factors like hormonal changes, metabolic issues, genetics, stress, certain medications, infections, and lifestyle factors such as smoking or alcohol. But it’s not contagious.

Diagnosis often involves a clinical exam and, if needed, a skin biopsy to confirm. Dr Ravishankar recommends lifestyle adjustments, stress management, and targeted treatment, from topical formulations to immune-modulating medications or biologics that tackle inflammation. Daily care with pH-balanced cleansers, barrier-repair emollients, and sun protection can keep symptoms under control.

And if skin problems last more than two to four weeks, don’t keep guessing. Persistent discomfort, lack of improvement with fungal creams, or worsening skin could be subtle signs of psoriasis. Myths only delay care and in the case of psoriasis, early attention can change everything.

psoriasis

autoimmune

skin patches

silvery scales

eczema

scalp plaques

guttate psoriasis

nail changes

psoriatic arthritis

early intervention

You spot an itchy patch, a flaky scalp, or a rash after a bad week and think, “It’s probably nothing. Maybe I just need a better moisturiser.” But sometimes, skin changes are like quiet signs from your immune system, and ignoring them could mean missing a chronic condition hiding in plain sight: psoriasis.Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease whose symptoms are often mistaken for everyday skin issues. For light skin tones, it can show up red or pink with a silvery white scale; on darker skin tones, it might look purplish, grey, or dark brown, with scaling that’s less obvious. Dr K R Sharmatha, Senior Consultant, Dermatology, SIMS Hospital, Chennai, says that because psoriasis often hides behind myths, it’s misdiagnosed as something else. So, let’s debunk nine common misconceptions that are actually signs you might have psoriasis, not just a skin infection.1. It’s dry skin; a moisturiser will fix itEarly psoriasis can look like stubborn red or scaly patches on knees, back, scalp, or elbows, resulting in silvery-white scales on inflamed skin. Moisturisers won’t cut it; targeted treatments and light therapy are the real solutions.2. If it itches, it’s probably eczemaPsoriasis can itch like eczema, but it’s not just a surface problem. The itching can cause burning and pain, with flare-ups that feel deep and relentless.3. Flaky scalp = dandruffScalp psoriasis is thicker, with defined plaques and red blotches. Medicated shampoos containing coal tar or salicylic acid can help, but it needs proper diagnosis first.4. Temporary allergy rash after illness or stressAfter a sore throat, fever, or a rough life event, small teardrop-shaped red lesions might appear. This is often misread as an allergy rash, but it could be guttate psoriasis, triggered by immune stressors and treatable with immune-regulating medication and UV therapy.5. Nail crumbling means vitamin deficiencyYellow nails, tiny dents, or separation from the nail bed could mean nail psoriasis. It can even signal psoriatic arthritis, an inflammatory joint condition.6. Shiny red patches are sweat rash or fungal infectionsInverse psoriasis shows up as red, shiny patches without scaling, often in the groin, underarms, or under breasts. Its appearance fools people into thinking it’s a sweat rash or fungal infection. Gentle cleansers and prescription creams can help.7. Skin issues and joint pain aren’t connectedThink again. Persistent stiffness or pain in fingers and knees can be psoriatic arthritis, which may show up without visible skin patches.8. If it’s not visible, it’s not seriousPsoriasis can affect hidden spots like the inner thighs or inside the mouth, severely impacting quality of life and requiring customised treatment.9. If it runs in the family, you’re stuck with itGenetics can play a role, but early intervention reduces severity and prevents complications.Dr Vaaruni Ravishankar, Consultant Dermatologist, MGM Healthcare, Chennai, explains that psoriasis can be silent, sometimes showing up as fissured palms and soles, oozing skin, persistent groin or armpit rashes, or rough, pitted nails. It can even come disguised as arthritis or link up with autoimmune gut issues.However, don’t panic, self-treat, or ignore it. Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition triggered by factors like hormonal changes, metabolic issues, genetics, stress, certain medications, infections, and lifestyle factors such as smoking or alcohol. But it’s not contagious.Diagnosis often involves a clinical exam and, if needed, a skin biopsy to confirm. Dr Ravishankar recommends lifestyle adjustments, stress management, and targeted treatment, from topical formulations to immune-modulating medications or biologics that tackle inflammation. Daily care with pH-balanced cleansers, barrier-repair emollients, and sun protection can keep symptoms under control.And if skin problems last more than two to four weeks, don’t keep guessing. Persistent discomfort, lack of improvement with fungal creams, or worsening skin could be subtle signs of psoriasis. Myths only delay care and in the case of psoriasis, early attention can change everything.

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