Yet the red, scaly patches of psoriasis that can appear all over the body just scratch the surface of the problem.

According to the Psoriasis Association, people with the condition often suffer with low confidence and self-esteem, which in turn impacts on their relationships and social lives.

Celebrities including American fashion consultant Stacy London, TV presenter and actress Nadia Sawalha and singer and actor Jason Donovan have all spoken out about their psoriasis, a condition which affects an estimated one to three per cent of the UK population.

Kim Kardashian is a Psoriasis sufferer and was advised to slow down her lifestyle

Dr Sandeep Cliff, consultant dermatologist, explains: The psychological impact of psoriasis has been likened to that of depression and heart disease, which highlights the major impact it can have on a patients life.

Some will have a family history of the condition, but others may not. A flare-up can be triggered by stress or anxiety, injury to skin, hormonal changes or certain infections or medications.

This life-long inflammatory condition can impact on quality of life including psychological and social functioning, which is not always recognised by health professionals, according to a recent study published in the British Journal of Dermatology.

The disease is often worse in winter when there is less ultraviolet light and central heating can lead to the skin drying and being irritated by the use of lots of clothing, says Dr Sandeep. To limit this seasonal deterioration, its important to emphasise the need to use copious amounts of emollients on the skin throughout the day and a thicker preparation at night to allow it to soak in.

The important thing patients need to recognise is they no longer need to suffer in silence help is out there.

Kim was diagnosed with psoriasis last year, as documented on her show Keeping Up With The Kardashians.

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Health: Break that flake