Psoriasis (pronounced suh-rye-ah-sis) is a condition that causes the body to make new skin cells in days rather than weeks. As these cells pile up on the surface of the skin, thick, scaly patches appear.
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Those thick, scaly patches that develop on the skin are called plaques. About 80% to 90% of people living with PsO get plaques, making it the most common form of psoriasis.
Common plaque locations:
- Knees
- Elbows
- Lower back
- Scalp
Plaques may appear as single patches or may join together to cover a large area. No matter the size, they tend to be itchy, and without treatment, the itch can become intense. Some people report that their skin stings, burns, or feels painful and tight.
Most people who get PsO have it for life. That’s true no matter what type of psoriasis you have, with one exception. Some children who have guttate (gut-tate) psoriasis see their psoriasis go away.
Because psoriasis tends to be a life-long disease, it helps to learn about it and see a certified dermatologist. A bit of knowledge and help from a certified dermatologist can give you some control over PsO.
Gaining control can help you:
- See clearer (or clear) skin
- Feel better overall
- Improve health
- Prevent PsO from worsening
Gaining control often involves:
- Learning (and avoiding) what triggers your PsO
- Sticking to a good PsO skincare routine
- Living a healthy lifestyle
- Using medication when necessary
PsO can increase your risk of developing certain diseases, such as psoriatic arthritis or diabetes. Your dermatologist can watch for early signs of disease. If you do develop another disease, early treatment helps to prevent the disease from worsening.
It’s also possible to have more than one type of psoriasis.
- Practice stress management techniques like yoga or meditation
- Join a support group
- Maintain a gratitude journal
- Use calming breathing exercises during stressful times
Many everyday things can act as a trigger. Psoriasis may appear for the first time or flare up due to:
- Stress
- Skin injury (cuts, burns, bug bites)
- Infections (like strep throat)
- Certain medications
- Weather (cold, dry weather)
- Tobacco
- Alcohol (heavy drinking)
- Psoriasis runs in families. If a parent, grandparent, or sibling has it, your risk increases.
- Psoriasis is not contagious. You cannot catch it from someone else.
You cannot get psoriasis by:- Swimming in a pool with someone who has it
- Touching someone with psoriasis
- Having sex with someone who has it
Scientists believe immune system dysfunction and genetics play a major role.
1. Stress
- Stress is a common trigger.
- Practice stress management daily.
- Try yoga, meditation, or support groups
- Write down 3 things you’re grateful for before bed
- Use calming breathing techniques
2. Skin injury
Flare-ups can occur 10–14 days after injury. Triggers include cuts, sunburns, bruises, and bug bites.
Tips:
- Treat skin injuries quickly
- Calm any itching and avoid scratching
- Use insect repellent during high-bug hours
3. Alcohol consumption
Daily or excessive drinking can interfere with treatment and worsen PsO.
Tips:
- Quit drinking
- If not, limit intake (Women: 1 drink, Men: 2 drinks/day)
- Inform your dermatologist about alcohol use
4. Smoking
Smoking or secondhand smoke can trigger unexpected PsO flares.
Tips:
- Stop smoking; consult your dermatologist for help
- Avoid nicotine patches unless approved
- Avoid smoke-filled environments
5. Dry, cold weather
PsO often worsens during fall and winter.
Tips:
- Use warm (not hot) water for short baths/showers
- Apply rich, fragrance-free moisturizers afterward
- Use humidifiers indoors
- Wear protective clothing outdoors
- Avoid sitting too close to heat sources
- Ask your dermatologist about phototherapy
6. Warm Weather / Sunshine
Flares may occur from sunburn or air-conditioning.
Tips:
- Moisturize often if exposed to air conditioning
- Use sunscreen with SPF 30+, broad-spectrum, water-resistant
- Apply sunscreen on uncovered, PsO-free skin
7. Infections
PsO flares may appear 2–6 weeks after strep throat or other infections.
Tips:
- Treat infections promptly
- Let your dermatologist know if you have HIV
8. Medications
Some medicines may trigger PsO after 2–3 weeks.
Tips:
- Do NOT stop medications on your own
- Ask your doctor about alternatives
- Before starting new meds, check with the doctor for PsO risks
- Common triggers include: lithium, anti-malarials, prednisone, high BP meds
9. Tattoos & Piercings
These create minor injuries that can cause flares.
Tips:
- Avoid tattoos and piercings
- If desired, consult your dermatologist first
10. Shaving
Cuts from shaving can trigger PsO in 10–14 days.
Tips:
- Shave carefully
- Apply moisturizer + shaving gel before shaving
Yes. Treatment offers both physical and mental benefits.
Treatment can:
- Help you see clearer skin
- Slow PsO progression
- Reduce symptoms like itch and pain
- Lower the risk of heart disease and other conditions
- Improve sleep and self-confidence
- While PsO cannot be cured, there are more options than ever. New treatments continue to emerge.
Why work with a dermatologist?
- They have PsO-specific experience
- Understand risks and benefits of each treatment
- Can recommend safe combinations
- Will customize a plan suited to you
By consulting a dermatologist, you can find the right treatment to ease discomfort and achieve clearer skin.
What is psoriasis and how does it develop?
Psoriasis causes the body to generate new skin cells too quickly, leading to thick, scaly patches known as plaques.
Is psoriasis contagious?
No, psoriasis is not contagious. You cannot catch it through contact, swimming, or physical intimacy.
Where on the body does psoriasis usually appear?
Psoriasis plaques most commonly appear on the knees, elbows, scalp, and lower back.
What causes psoriasis flare-ups?
Common triggers include stress, infections, certain medications, skin injuries, tobacco, and alcohol.
Can psoriasis be cured?
Psoriasis is usually a chronic condition. However, with proper management and treatment, symptoms can be controlled effectively.
Why should I consult a dermatologist for psoriasis?
A dermatologist can help identify your specific type of psoriasis, provide targeted treatments, and monitor for related conditions like psoriatic arthritis or diabetes.