Ellena's story

Having lived with scalp psoriasis since she was a child, Ellena shares how her condition has shaped her life, the challenges she’s faced, and how she’s learned to adapt as a mum of three.

I first noticed something was wrong in Year Six. My scalp itched constantly, and I saw white flakes on my jumper. I didn’t really understand what was happening, and I felt embarrassed. On top of that, I had experienced bullying, and I often felt like I didn’t fit in. Looking back, I wonder if the stress I was under contributed to my first psoriasis flare-ups.

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Over time, living with scalp psoriasis has affected more than just my skin. It’s constant itching, discomfort, and self-consciousness. I avoided swimming, tying my hair back, wearing black clothes, and even social events because I was always trying to hide the flakes. I didn’t go to hairdressers either; my mum always had one come to our house. Psoriasis influenced my choices for years, even leading me to study hairdressing so I could manage my own hair.

I was diagnosed at 11 and have tried a wide range of treatments, from creams and medicated shampoos to scalp applications like Betacap and Dovobet, Ciclosporin, UV therapy, and biologic injections. Recently, I started Bimzelx, after previous treatments hadn’t worked on my scalp, and I’m hopeful it will finally help me manage it better.

Psoriasis has affected my confidence, especially during my teenage years. I was called “flakey” or “snake,” and some people even moved away, worried they could catch it. It even affected my wedding day, I wanted to wear my hair up, but because of my psoriasis showing, I chose to wear it down. Thankfully, my husband has always been supportive, and now, as a mum of three young girls, I can teach them that psoriasis is common, not contagious, and nothing to be ashamed of.

Living with psoriasis requires constant lifestyle adjustments. Every morning and evening, I clean my pillow and hoover to manage flakes. I can’t wear certain clothes, and recently I was diagnosed with psoriatic arthritis, which brings new physical challenges.

Sharing my experience online has helped me realise how many people are dealing with the same thing. Opening up on TikTok (@girliemum), where I have 56,000 followers, has created a supportive community where people feel less alone.

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Despite the difficulties, psoriasis has also inspired positive change. I’m developing a children’s book to educate young people about psoriasis and creating a gentle scalp serum to help others find effective, soothing care.

My story has also been shared in national media, including The Sun and The Daily Mail, helping to raise awareness about scalp psoriasis and support others living with the condition.

Psoriasis is unpredictable, affects everyone differently, and doesn’t define who you are. By sharing my story, I hope to reduce stigma, raise awareness, and support others in living confidently with psoriasis.