WHAT IS PSORIASIS? Psoriasis occurs when your skin’s cells multiply too fast. Normally, the skin renews itself every 3 or 4 weeks. If you suffer from psoriasis, it happens every 3 to 7 days. This breaks down the protective skin barrier, allowing the escape of moisture and the build-up of plaques of thick, scaling skin. Psoriasis can really affect your quality of life. The visible symptoms can often make you self-conscious, and the constant itching can be annoying and exhausting. Many psoriasis sufferers try different treatments. However, identifying which treatment is most effective can be difficult. Talk to your doctor if you feel a treatment isn’t working or if you have uncomfortable side effects.