Skin, the body’s largest organ, is a protective barrier between our inner selves and the external world. But for millions of individuals worldwide, this protective shield becomes a battleground where a chronic condition known as psoriasis wages a relentless war.

Psoriasis is more than just skin deep; it’s an intricate interplay of genetics, immune response, and environmental factors that leads to discomfort, self-consciousness, and, often, confusion.

Here, we will embark on a journey to demystify psoriasis, exploring its origins, manifestations, and available treatments. Whether you’re someone grappling with psoriasis, seeking information to support a loved one, or simply eager to expand your knowledge, this guide will shed light on psoriasis and how to navigate its challenges.

What is Psoriasis?

Psoriasis prevalence worldwide is estimated to be around 2-3%, making it a relatively common skin condition that affects a significant portion of the global population. With a worldwide population of approximately 8 billion people, this means that there are roughly 160 million individuals living with psoriasis.

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease known for its rapid and excessive growth of skin cells, as stated by the American Academy of Dermatology. This condition causes the skin cells to build up rapidly on the skin’s surface, forming raised, red, scaly skin patches known as plaques. These plaques appear anywhere on the body.

Psoriasis can persist for years or even a lifetime. It often goes through cycles of flare-ups, during which psoriasis outbreaks worsen, followed by periods of remission when symptoms improve or disappear.

Psoriasis can affect individuals of all skin tones, including those with darker skin tones. The cracked skin patches may exhibit pink or red hues on light skin tone, while the scales can appear white or silvery. In the case of brown and black skin, the patches might also display shades of purple or dark brown, with scales possibly taking on a grayish appearance.

People with psoriasis develop severe medical conditions, including celiac disease, diabetes, heart disease, metabolic syndrome, liver disease, low self-esteem, and depression. If you’re wondering, “Is psoriasis contagious?” it’s not. Autoimmune diseases like psoriasis cannot be transmitted from one person to another through physical contact.

While there is no cure for psoriasis, various treatment options are available to help manage and improve symptoms, providing relief and improving the quality of life for individuals affected. Treatment approaches are tailored to the severity of psoriasis and the specific needs of the individual.

What Causes Psoriasis?

Psoriasis affects skin cell production, leading to an accelerated cycle of new skin cells. Without psoriasis, skin cells typically take about a month to mature and move to the skin’s surface before shedding. However, this process is dramatically accelerated with skin conditions like psoriasis, with skin cells growing in just a few days.

The exact cause of psoriasis is not fully known, but it is believed to be a complex interplay of genetic, immune system, and environmental factors. Researchers have made significant progress in understanding the mechanisms behind psoriasis. While the precise cause remains elusive, several key factors are known to contribute to the development of the condition:

Genetics

Family history plays a substantial role in psoriasis. This skin disease is considered a hereditary condition, and people with family members who have psoriasis may develop it too. 

Immune System Dysfunction

Psoriasis is often described as an autoimmune disease. In individuals with psoriasis, the body’s immune system mistakenly identifies healthy skin cells as foreign invaders and launches an immune response against them.

This immune system malfunction leads to inflammation and the rapid growth of skin cells, resulting in the characteristic plaques and symptoms of psoriasis. Basically, white blood cells mistakenly attack the skin.

Environmental Triggers

While genetics and immune system dysfunction are significant factors, specific environmental triggers can exacerbate or activate psoriasis in susceptible individuals. Common psoriasis triggers include:

• Infections: Streptococcal throat infections, for example, are common triggers that can sometimes worsen psoriasis symptoms.
• Injury or Trauma: Skin injuries, such as cuts, burns, or insect bites, can lead to psoriasis lesions in a phenomenon known as the Koebner response.
• Stress: High stress levels or emotional trauma can provoke or worsen psoriasis flare-ups.
• Medications: Some medications, including lithium, antimalarial drugs, and certain beta-blockers, can induce or exacerbate psoriasis in susceptible individuals.
• Smoking and Alcohol: Both smoking and excessive alcohol consumption have been associated with an increased risk of psoriasis and may worsen the condition in those already affected.

Hormonal Changes

Hormonal changes, such as those that occur during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause, can impact psoriasis. Some women find that their symptoms improve during pregnancy but worsen after giving birth.

Obesity

There is a correlation between psoriasis and obesity. Excess body weight can increase the risk of developing psoriasis and may make existing symptoms more severe.

It’s important to note that while these factors contribute to the development and exacerbation of psoriasis, not everyone with a genetic predisposition or exposure to triggers will develop the condition.

Psoriasis is a complex and multifactorial disease, and its onset and course can vary significantly from person to person.

How is Psoriasis Diagnosed?

Diagnosing psoriasis involves a medical history review, a physical examination of skin lesions, and, in some cases, additional tests. A thorough skin examination helps identify typical psoriasis signs like red plaques with silvery scales, often occurring on the scalp, elbows, knees, lower back, and nails. 

When needed, a skin biopsy may confirm the diagnosis. Blood tests can be helpful, particularly if psoriatic arthritis is suspected. Once diagnosed, personalized treatment plans are developed to improve symptoms.

What are the Common Types of Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a diverse condition, and several common types have been identified, each with its distinct characteristics and symptoms. Here are some of them:

Plaque Psoriasis (Psoriasis Vulgaris)

80-90% of psoriasis is plaque psoriasis. It is characterized by raised, red, and inflamed patches of skin covered with silvery-white scales. These patches, known as plaques, can appear on any part of the body but are often found on the elbows, knees, scalp, lower back, and face.

Some of the common plaque psoriasis are:

Scalp Psoriasis

Scalp psoriasis exclusively affects the scalp and is characterized by red, scaly patches. This type of psoriasis causes itching and flaking, often mistaken for dandruff. In severe cases, it can extend beyond the hairline onto the forehead, neck, and ears.

Nail Psoriasis

Nail psoriasis affects the fingernails and toenails. This type of psoriasis can cause nail changes, including pitting (small dents or depressions), thickening, discoloration, ridges, and nail separation from the nail bed. 

Inverse Psoriasis (Intertriginous Psoriasis)

Inverse psoriasis develops in skin folds and creases, such as the armpits, groin, under the breasts, and around the genitals. Unlike classic plaque psoriasis, this type presents as smooth, red, and inflamed patches without the typical scaling seen in other forms of psoriasis.

Psoriatic Arthritis

Individuals with psoriasis develop arthritis called psoriatic arthritis. It is a type of inflammatory arthritis that causes swollen joints, pain, swelling, stiffness, and reduced joint mobility. 

At times, psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis are collectively referred to as “psoriatic disease.” Psoriatic arthritis is often associated with skin psoriasis, but not always.

Psoriatic arthritis ranges from mild to severe and may affect any joint in the body, including the fingers, toes, spine, and larger joints like the knees and elbows. Studies have found that at least 15% of the patients with plaque psoriasis will develop psoriatic arthritis.

It’s essential to treat patients with psoriatic arthritis as soon as possible to prevent further complications. 

Pustular Psoriasis

Pustular psoriasis is identified by pus-filled bumps and blisters (pustules) on the skin. These are surrounded by red, inflamed skin, and individuals may experience fever, chills, and malaise.

Some of the typical pustular psoriasis are:

Generalized Pustular Psoriasis (GPP)

This is the most severe and rarest form of pustular psoriasis. GPP can cover large areas of the body and is often accompanied by fever, chills, fatigue, and malaise. It’s a severe medical condition that requires immediate medical attention and hospitalization.

GPP can occur suddenly and may be triggered by various factors, including medications, infections, or the withdrawal of systemic corticosteroids.

Palmoplantar Pustulosis (PPP)

PPP is a localized form of pustular psoriasis that primarily affects the palms of the hands and the soles of the feet. Painful pustules in these areas can significantly impact an individual’s ability to use their hands and walk comfortably. PPP tends to be chronic and recurrent.

Acrodermatitis Continua of Hallopeau (ACH)

ACH is a rare and localized form of pustular psoriasis that typically affects the fingertips and nails. It leads to pustules forming around the fingertips and can result in nail changes and deformities.

Guttate Psoriasis

Guttate psoriasis often develops suddenly and can be triggered by various factors, with infections being a common trigger, especially strep throat infections. Guttate psoriasis typically impacts children and young adults and, in the majority of instances, resolves spontaneously.

Erythrodermic Psoriasis

Erythrodermic psoriasis is rare and is the most severe psoriasis. This condition is characterized by widespread redness, inflammation, and shedding scales in sheets over a large portion of the body. Erythrodermic psoriasis is often considered a medical emergency because it can seriously affect a person’s health and well-being.

Where Does Psoriasis Start, and What Body Part Does Psoriasis Affect?

Psoriasis can occur on any body part, but certain areas are more commonly affected. The location of symptoms can vary from person to person, and it can even change over time. Some of the most common areas where psoriasis plaques develop include:

1. Scalp: Scalp psoriasis can lead to red, scaly patches on the scalp, often accompanied by itching and flaking. It may be mistaken for dandruff.
2. Elbows and Knees: Psoriasis frequently appears on the extensor surfaces of the elbows and knees. The plaques here can be particularly thick and scaly.
3. Lower Back: Psoriasis can affect the lower back, appearing as plaques that extend from the waistline to the buttocks.
4. Nails: Nail psoriasis can cause changes in the appearance of the fingernails and toenails. This may include pitting (small dents), thickening, discoloration, and nail separation from the nail bed.
5. Palms and Soles: In some cases, psoriasis can affect the palms of the hands and the soles of the feet. This form of psoriasis is known as palmoplantar psoriasis.
6. Face and Flexures: While less common, psoriasis can also occur on the face and in skin folds.

Can Psoriasis Be Cured?

Psoriasis is considered a chronic condition for which there is no known cure. However, it is essential to note that various treatment options are available to effectively manage and alleviate psoriasis symptoms. Certain medications can help control the condition, reduce flare-ups, and improve the quality of life for individuals with psoriasis.

Common psoriasis treatments include topical retinoid creams, ointments, phototherapy (ultraviolet light therapy), oral medications, and other treatments. Treatment choice depends on the severity of the condition, its location on the body, and individual factors.

The typical ingredients found in topical creams for psoriasis are corticosteroids, salicylic acid, coal tar, vitamin D analogues, calcineurin inhibitors, and tazarotene. 

NOTE: Before buying any products containing the abovementioned ingredients, consult your dermatologist via teledermatology and patch test if they suit your skin.

To effectively treat psoriasis, people should work closely with healthcare professionals. It is to properly diagnose psoriasis and develop a psoriasis treatment plan that addresses your specific needs and concerns.

While there is no cure, many people with psoriasis can achieve significant symptom relief and long-term control of their condition through appropriate treatment and lifestyle management.

Recommended Products

CeraVe Psoriasis Cream

The CeraVe Psoriasis Skin Therapy Moisturizing Cream offers targeted relief for psoriasis symptoms. Developed by dermatologists, this non-prescription cream moisturizes and addresses common psoriasis issues.

What sets this cream apart is its dual-action formula. It removes scales and dry skin, relieving itching and improving skin appearance. Additionally, it focuses on repairing the skin barrier, reducing moisture loss, and preventing symptom recurrence.

The cream is rich but absorbs well without greasiness. It’s fragrance-free and suitable for daily use. While results vary, it’s a practical over-the-counter option for managing psoriasis discomfort. For personalized guidance, consult a dermatologist.

MG217 Psoriasis Shampoo with Coal Tar

The MG217 Psoriasis Shampoo with Coal Tar is a standout choice for soothing seborrheic dermatitis and scalp psoriasis. Recognized by the National Psoriasis Foundation, this shampoo offers targeted relief for troublesome scalp conditions.

This shampoo’s key ingredient, coal tar, is renowned for alleviating seborrheic dermatitis symptoms, like flaking and itching, after a few weeks. It is also a trusted psoriasis scalp treatment, making it a versatile solution for scalp-related skin concerns.

While this shampoo has received positive reviews for its effectiveness, it’s essential to remember that individual experiences may vary.

Scalp conditions are complex, with different triggers and responses to treatment. Therefore, consulting a dermatologist for a personalized approach to managing these conditions is advisable.

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Final Thoughts

Psoriasis is a complex and often challenging condition that can significantly impact a person’s quality of life. Understanding the nature of psoriasis, its various types, triggers, and available treatment options is crucial for individuals living with this condition.

While there may not be a one-size-fits-all approach to psoriasis management, working closely with healthcare professionals, adopting a healthy lifestyle, and exploring a personalized treatment plan can help individuals find relief, regain confidence, and enjoy a better quality of life.

With ongoing research and advancements in psoriasis treatments, there is hope for improved outcomes and a brighter future for those affected.

When it comes to chronic skin conditions that can make everyday life super uncomfortable, psoriasis is pretty high up on the list. Not only can it cause uncomfortable itching and redness, but it can also make one self-conscious.

Psoriasis is a life-long condition without a cure and flare-ups are often hard to control. But that doesn’t mean it can’t be treated. 

Below, we talk about the different ways one can manage psoriasis with varied treatment pathways, from dietary modifications to UV therapy. Let’s get into it.

What is psoriasis?

What exactly is psoriasis? Is it the same thing as having eczema? Not quite, but the confusion is understandable because the two diseases have a similar presentation. Mayo Clinic describes psoriasis as a “skin disease that causes a rash with itchy, scaly patches, most commonly on the knees, elbows, trunk and scalp.”

In other words, it’s a condition where the skin produces new skin cells way too quickly, causing immature cells to build up on the outermost layer and resulting in the dry, flaky patches we often see on people with psoriasis. 

Normally, skin cell growth takes 3 to 4 weeks. For those who live with psoriasis, this process is sped up so rapidly that new cells are produced every 3 to 7 days — so you can imagine what happens. 

People with psoriasis will go through cycles of flare-ups that last anywhere from weeks to months, after which they will subside for a certain time period before arising again. Because of this, wellness professionals would recommend lifestyle changes as part of the many treatment options, which can include topical treatments and ultraviolet B (UVB) treatment, which we’ll talk about further down.

What is the main cause of psoriasis?

Much like other chronic diseases, the exact cause of psoriasis isn’t exactly known. However, research suggests that the problem might lie in the immune system, according to the UK’s National Health Service. The CDC also describes psoriasis as an autoimmune disease. That said, you should consult a skin doctor a.k.a. dermatologist if you want to get proper treatment.

Because this skin ailment has such complex roots, it’s best to look at the symptoms of psoriasis, the types of psoriasis, and its severity for the individual living with it before the doctor can prescribe a treatment plan. It can seem overwhelming if you’re still starting to figure it all out for yourself, so we want to help you break it all down in a succinct yet non-scary way. 

Symptoms of psoriasis

Psoriasis is marked by a number of symptoms; the tricky thing is that it can look different for everyone. Because of this, managing psoriasis symptoms won’t be 100% the same across the board, but there are a few good practices that generally work for most symptoms. Before we get to that, let’s discuss what the symptoms of psoriasis typically are.

According to the National Psoriasis Foundation, symptoms can range from mild to moderate and severe. The most common include:

• Red patches of flaky and irritated skin
• Dry, cracked skin
• Soreness
• Itchiness on areas of the body where the patches appear
• Discolored rashes

According to the CDC, people who have psoriasis are more likely to have serious illnesses, including:

• Heart disease
• Psoriatic arthritis
• Diabetes
• Depression

Is psoriasis associated with skin cancer?

Psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis don’t cause skin cancer, but a few studies have suggested that having psoriasis can increase one’s risk of getting skin cancer.

Types of Psoriasis

To treat psoriasis, it’s best to know what kind you have. Here’s a quick rundown of the types of psoriasis:

Plaque Psoriasis

If you always get a few small patches of itchy, red irritated skin across your body, you might be dealing with this first type of psoriasis. Plaque psoriasis is the most common form of this autoimmune disease. It’s characterized by the presence of large, flaky, or scaly skin lesions — known as plaques — that can be dry, red, or irritated.

Psoriasis vulgaris, the other name for this type of psoriasis, can appear anywhere on the body but it is usually found along the elbows, knees, or lower back. This type also includes scalp psoriasis, although others often cite this as a category of its own.

Nail

The NHS says about half of the people living with psoriasis have it on their nails. This can present in a number of ways:

• Dents or pits on nails
• Discoloration
• Abnormal growth
• Loose nails, nail bed separation
• Crumbling nails (in severe psoriasis)

Guttate

Commonly found in children and teenagers, a guttate psoriasis is a form of mild psoriasis that shows up as tiny, breakout-looking sores, often red and scaly. They often appear after infections such as strep throat, and although they’re quite small/mild, they can lead to more severe psoriasis forms.

Inverse

Some types of psoriasis form in the skin’s folds or creases — think armpits, groin, butt area, or underboob area. Unlike other psoriasis manifestations, this one appears as smooth patches of skin irritation. Things like hot weather, sweating, and additional friction along the skin folds can often worsen psoriasis.

Pustular

Among the less common varieties is pustular psoriasis, which mainly manifests as blisters filled with pus along different parts of the body. Although it differs in appearance, psoriasis treatment for this type can actually be similar — things like vitamin D, steroid creams, coal tar, and light treatment are all recommended.

Erythrodermic

Perhaps the most severe form is erythrodermic psoriasis, a type that affects your entire body. In this scenario, the plaques and lesions occur all over your body — almost everywhere on your skin.

Can you make psoriasis go away?

Since the reason your immune system acts up and overproduces skin cells is relatively unknown, there’s no cure for it. Nonetheless, treating psoriasis is more than possible. Psoriasis treatment involves a number of different approaches, from topical skincare like salicylic acid to lifestyle changes like maintaining a healthy diet. 

How do you permanently treat psoriasis? What is the best psoriasis treatment?

1. Dietary Supplements for Treating Psoriasis

While supplements may get a bad wrap, the National Psoriasis Foundation has recommended fish oil, Oregon grape, milk thistle, and aloe vera plant extract as some of the ways one can treat mild psoriasis at home.

2. Moisturize religiously

Another effective treatment is using moisturizer on affected areas. Having dry skin is one of the main symptoms of this disease, exposure to environmental factors as well as lack of moisture can only make symptoms worse.

3. Hello, aloe vera!

Does your psoriasis give you inflamed, sensitive skin? Try applying aloe vera on the patches to improve symptoms. Aloe vera has famed wound healing properties and anti-inflammatory properties as well.

4. Try a soothing bath

Psoriasis and similar health conditions can no doubt cause a ton of stress on top of other things you might go through. The good news? A warm, relaxing bath can not only help you relax inside but alleviate psoriatic patches, too. Add some oatmeal, bath oil, or even olive oil to your tub and apply moisturizer afterward to really double down on the hydration.

5. Go for Ultraviolet Therapy

Ultraviolet light therapy involves exposing parts of the skin to the sun’s rays. And no, we don’t mean heading to a tanning bed — simply sitting outside under the sun for 10-15 minutes can do wonders. Unlike other treatment options, this one might be the most accessible. Do be careful about getting too much sun and always wear protective clothing or sunscreen with SPF (sun protection factor) of at least 30++ on unaffected areas.

6. Skip the Liquor

Did you know that when some people drink alcohol, it triggers their whole immune system and causes psoriatic flare-ups? A 2015 study seems to suggest as much. If you think this is you, then you may want to consider reducing your alcohol intake.

7. Watch Your Weight

Finally, peer-reviewed studies show a significant link between obesity and increased risk for psoriasis. Similarly, losing weight has also been said to help alleviate symptoms of the disease.

In order to lose weight healthily, you can try frequent exercise, eating more protein and vegetables, and reducing your intake of simple carbohydrates.

Final Note

Although psoriasis is considered a chronic condition, that doesn’t mean there aren’t multiple ways that you can alleviate symptoms each day. Plenty of accessible home remedies can be used to treat the irritated patches of skin — some of them you may even find in your home.

We hope this guide has helped you better understand this condition and the myriad of ways it can be managed. Have any questions? Leave a comment below.