16 July 2025

What Is Psoriasis? Causes, Symptoms & How to Identify It Early

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that affects the skin, causing it to become inflamed, red, scaly, and itchy. Although it is not contagious, it can significantly impact a person's quality of life, physically, emotionally, and socially. Psoriasis can appear at any age, but is most commonly diagnosed in adults between the ages of 15 and 35.

What Causes Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a long-term (chronic) skin disease that causes the rapid buildup of skin cells. Normally, skin cells take about a month to replace themselves, but in people with psoriasis, this process happens in just a few days. The rapid turnover leads to the buildup of thick, scaly patches called plaques that can be itchy, painful, and sometimes crack or bleed.

Because psoriasis is an autoimmune disease, the immune system mistakenly targets healthy skin cells. Psoriasis mainly affects the skin, although it can also affect the joints, scalp, and nails.

 

What Causes Psoriasis?

The exact cause of psoriasis isn’t fully understood, but it is believed to result from a combination of genetic, immune system, and environmental factors. Here are some key contributors:

1. Immune System Dysfunction

The immune system mistakenly targets healthy skin cells, leading to overproduction and inflammation.

2.Genetics

The risk is increased if psoriasis runs in the family. There is a roughly 10% probability that a child will get psoriasis if one parent has it.

3. Environmental Triggers

Certain factors can trigger or worsen psoriasis, including:

• Stress
• Skin injuries or cuts
• Infections (especially streptococcal throat infections)
• Cold weather
• Smoking and alcohol
• Certain medications like beta-blockers, lithium

Common Symptoms of Psoriasis

Psoriasis comes in a variety of forms, each with unique traits. For appropriate management and therapy, it is crucial to comprehend the type.

• Silvery-white scales covering red skin areas
• Dry, cracked skin that may bleed
• Itching, burning, or soreness
• Thickened or ridged nails
• Joint pain or stiffness (in cases involving psoriatic arthritis)

Types of Psoriasis

Psoriasis comes in a variety of forms, each with unique traits. For appropriate management and therapy, it is crucial to comprehend the type.

1. Plaque Psoriasis (Psoriasis Vulgaris)

• About 80 to 90 percent of psoriasis sufferers have this kind, which is the most prevalent.
• Raised, red areas with a silvery-white scale covering them are among the symptoms.
• Frequently shows up on the lower back, scalp, knees, and elbows.

2. Guttate Psoriasis

• Appears as small, red, drop-like lesions on the trunk, arms, or legs.
• Often triggered by infections like strep throat.
• More common in children and young adults.

3. Inverse Psoriasis

• Appears as shiny, smooth red patches in body folds like underarms, under breasts, or around the groin.
• Triggered by friction and sweating.
• Less scaly but more irritated due to moisture.

4. Pustular Psoriasis

• Characterized by white pustules (blisters of non-infectious pus) surrounded by red skin.
• It can be localized (on hands and feet) or generalized, which can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention.

5. Erythrodermic Psoriasis

• The most severe and uncommon type of psoriasis.
• Involves the majority of the body being red, peeling, and burning.
• Can lead to complications like infection, dehydration, or heart failure.
• A medical emergency requires immediate treatment.

6. Nail Psoriasis

• Affects fingernails and toenails.
• Causes pitting, discoloration, thickening, and separation of the nail from the nail bed.

7. Psoriatic Arthritis

• Affects up to 30% of people with psoriasis.
• Causes joint pain, stiffness, and swelling.
• It can lead to joint damage if left untreated.

Is Psoriasis Curable?

Currently, psoriasis has no cure, but it can be effectively managed with the right treatment and lifestyle adjustments. Many people experience long periods of remission where symptoms disappear completely.

Treatment Options for Psoriasis

While there’s no permanent cure, many psoriasis management treatments help reduce symptoms and improve skin appearance. Treatment depends on the severity and type of psoriasis, and includes:

Topical Treatments

• Corticosteroids
• Vitamin D analogues
• Salicylic acid
• Coal tar

Phototherapy

• Uses UVB or PUVA light therapy under medical supervision.

Systemic Medications

• Oral or injected medications for severe cases.
• Includes methotrexate, cyclosporine, and newer biologics like adalimumab, secukinumab, etc.

Lifestyle Management

• Stress management techniques
• Moisturizing daily
• Avoiding known triggers
• Eating a balanced, anti-inflammatory diet

Take Control of Your Skin Health with HealthBay Aesthetics

Psoriasis is more than just a skin condition; it’s an immune system disorder that requires long-term care and awareness. Recognizing the symptoms early can lead to better outcomes through timely treatment and lifestyle changes. The team of experts at HealthBay Aesthetics offers advanced, considerate treatment catered to your unique needs. From accurate diagnosis to the latest in psoriasis management treatment, we are here to support your skin journey.