August is Psoriasis Awareness Month, making it the perfect time to shed light on a condition that affects millions, yet is often misunderstood. At Siperstein Dermatology Group, we believe that awareness leads to empowerment, and patients deserve to feel confident in their skin.
What is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin condition that speeds up the life cycle of skin cells. Instead of cells shedding normally, they pile up on the surface, causing thick, scaly patches. It is not contagious, but it can be uncomfortable, emotionally distressing, and sometimes disabling.
The types of psoriasis include:
- Plaque psoriasis (the most common type, which appears as red, raised areas with silvery-white scale)
- Guttate psoriasis (small, drop-like spots)
- Inverse psoriasis (in skin folds)
- Pustular psoriasis (white pustules)
- Erythrodermic psoriasis (a rare, severe form)
Who Gets Psoriasis?
Psoriasis affects approximately 7.5 million people in the U.S., but it can occur in anyone, regardless of age, gender, or skin type. It’s most commonly diagnosed between the ages of 15 and 35, though it can develop at any time.
You may be at higher risk if:
- You have a family history of psoriasis
- You have another autoimmune condition
- You experience chronic stress
- You’ve had strep infections (particularly in guttate psoriasis)
Where Does Psoriasis Appear?
Psoriasis can show up anywhere on the body. It may appear symmetrically or affect only small, isolated areas. The most common locations include:
- Scalp
- Elbows and knees
- Lower back
- Nails (causing pitting, discoloration, or crumbling)
- Hands, feet, and skin folds
When Does It Flare?
Psoriasis is a lifelong condition that tends to cycle through flare-ups and remissions. Flares may be triggered by:
- Stress
- Skin injuries (scratches, sunburn, bug bites)
- Illness or infection
- Certain medications
- Alcohol or smoking
Why Does Psoriasis Happen?
Psoriasis is caused by a dysregulated immune response that leads to rapid overproduction of skin cells. While the exact cause isn’t fully understood, we do know it involves:
- Genetics
- Immune system overactivity
- Environmental triggers
Psoriasis is more than skin-deep. It is linked to systemic inflammation, which can increase the risk of:
- Psoriatic arthritis (in up to 30% of people with psoriasis)
- Cardiovascular disease
- Metabolic syndrome
- Depression and anxiety
How is Psoriasis Treated?
While there’s no permanent cure, there are many effective treatments that can dramatically improve symptoms and quality of life. The best approach depends on the type, severity, and location of your psoriasis.
Treatment options include:
Topicals:
- Corticosteroids
- Vitamin D analogs (like calcipotriene)
- Coal tar or salicylic acid preparations
Phototherapy:
- Narrowband UVB light therapy
- Excimer laser treatments for targeted areas
Systemics:
- Oral medications (e.g., methotrexate, cyclosporine, Otezla)
- Biologics — targeted injections that calm the immune system (e.g., Skyrizi, Cosentyx, Tremfya)
Lifestyle Support:
- Moisturizers for barrier repair
- Stress management
- Smoking cessation
- Anti-inflammatory diet
Psoriasis can be physically and emotionally challenging, but you don’t have to face it alone. With the right treatment plan and dermatologic support, most people can achieve clearer, more comfortable skin.
If you or someone you love has psoriasis or symptoms that resemble it, schedule a consultation with our team.
