Psoriasis: What It Is, Symptoms, Causes, Types & Treatment

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory condition that primarily affects the skin, but its impact often goes far beyond what is visible on the surface. Many people first notice dry, scaly patches or persistent redness and then begin searching for answers about what psoriasis is, what causes psoriasis, or how to get rid of psoriasis after symptoms continue or worsen.

While psoriasis is commonly described as a skin condition, it is best understood as an immune-mediated disorder. The immune system becomes overactive, speeding up skin cell turnover and triggering inflammation. This process leads to the buildup of thick, scaly plaques that can itch, crack, or feel painful. For some people, psoriasis is mild and intermittent. For others, it can be persistent, uncomfortable, and emotionally taxing.

Psoriasis is not contagious, and it is not caused by poor hygiene or something a person did wrong. Symptoms and severity vary widely, and flares can come and go over time. Many people also notice that psoriasis affects more than just their skin, with fatigue, joint discomfort, or changes in nails occurring alongside skin symptoms.

This article provides a clear, evidence-based overview of psoriasis. We will explain what psoriasis is, review common symptoms and causes, outline the different types of psoriasis, and discuss treatment options, including both medical care and supportive lifestyle approaches. The goal is to help you better understand the condition and feel more informed about managing it in a realistic, whole-body way.

Key Takeaways

• Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory condition driven by immune system dysregulation. It commonly causes thick, scaly patches of skin that may itch, crack, or become painful.
• Symptoms and severity vary widely and may flare at different times.
• While there is no permanent cure, psoriasis can often be managed effectively. A personalized, whole-body approach may help reduce flares and improve quality of life.

What Is Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory condition that occurs when the immune system becomes overactive and speeds up the life cycle of skin cells. Under normal circumstances, skin cells are produced and shed over the course of several weeks. In psoriasis, this process happens much faster, causing new skin cells to build up on the surface before older ones are shed.

This rapid turnover leads to the formation of thick, raised patches of skin covered with scale. These areas are often inflamed and may feel itchy, sore, or painful. While psoriasis most commonly affects the skin, it is increasingly understood as a condition that involves the immune system and inflammation throughout the body.

Psoriasis is not an infection, and it is not contagious. You cannot catch it from another person or spread it through physical contact. The condition is influenced by a combination of genetic factors and immune system activity, which helps explain why psoriasis often runs in families.

It is also important to understand that psoriasis is a long-term condition. Symptoms may improve or worsen over time, and many people experience periods of relative calm followed by flares. The goal of care is typically to reduce symptoms, manage inflammation, and improve quality of life rather than to eliminate the condition entirely.

Psoriasis Symptoms

Psoriasis symptoms can vary widely from person to person. Some individuals have small, localized patches, while others experience more widespread skin involvement. Symptoms may also change over time, depending on triggers, stress levels, and overall health.

Common Skin Symptoms

The most recognizable psoriasis symptoms affect the skin and may include:

• Thick, raised patches of skin called plaques
• White or silvery scaling on top of red or inflamed skin
• Dry skin that may crack or bleed
• Itching, burning, or soreness in affected areas

These plaques most often appear on the elbows, knees, scalp, lower back, and torso, but they can develop anywhere on the body.

Symptoms Beyond the Skin

Psoriasis is associated with systemic inflammation, which means symptoms are not always limited to the skin. Some people also experience:

• Persistent fatigue
• Nail changes such as pitting, thickening, or separation from the nail bed
• Joint pain, stiffness, or swelling, which may be a sign of psoriatic arthritis

Not everyone with psoriasis will have these symptoms, but their presence may influence how the condition is evaluated and managed.

Variation in Severity

Psoriasis symptoms range from mild to severe. Mild psoriasis may involve small patches that are more of a nuisance than a major disruption. More severe forms can be painful, interfere with daily activities, and have a significant impact on emotional well-being.

Because symptoms vary so widely, psoriasis care is most effective when it is individualized.

What Causes Psoriasis?

Psoriasis develops as a result of immune system dysregulation rather than a problem limited to the skin alone. In people with psoriasis, certain immune cells become overactive and trigger inflammation, which speeds up skin cell production and leads to the buildup of plaques.

Immune System Involvement

In psoriasis, the immune system mistakenly signals skin cells to grow and divide much faster than normal. This inflammatory response causes skin cells to accumulate on the surface before older cells can shed naturally, resulting in thick, scaly patches.

This immune activity also helps explain why psoriasis is considered a systemic inflammatory condition and why some people experience symptoms beyond the skin.

Genetic Factors

Genetics play a meaningful role in psoriasis. The condition tends to run in families, and having a close relative with psoriasis increases the likelihood of developing it. That said, genetics alone are not enough to cause psoriasis. Many people with genetic risk never develop symptoms.

Inflammation and the Whole Body

Psoriasis is associated with chronic inflammation, which can affect multiple systems in the body. This inflammatory environment may contribute to fatigue, joint symptoms, and increased risk of certain related conditions in some individuals.

Why Psoriasis Is Unpredictable

Psoriasis often follows a pattern of flares and periods of improvement. These fluctuations are influenced by immune activity and external factors rather than a single, constant cause. This is why symptoms can change over time and why management often focuses on identifying and reducing individual triggers.

Types of Psoriasis

There are several types of psoriasis, each with distinct characteristics. Some people experience only one type, while others may develop more than one form over time.

Plaque Psoriasis

Plaque psoriasis is the most common type. It causes raised, red patches of skin covered with white or silvery scale. These plaques often appear on the elbows, knees, scalp, and lower back.

Guttate Psoriasis

Guttate psoriasis typically appears as small, red, drop-shaped spots on the skin. It often develops suddenly, sometimes after a throat infection, and is more common in children and young adults.

Inverse Psoriasis

Inverse psoriasis affects skin folds such as the armpits, groin, under the breasts, or around the genitals. Instead of thick scaling, it usually appears as smooth, red, inflamed patches that can be uncomfortable due to friction and moisture.

Pustular Psoriasis

Pustular psoriasis is characterized by white, pus-filled bumps surrounded by red skin. These pustules are not infectious. This form can be localized or more widespread and may require prompt medical attention.

Erythrodermic Psoriasis

Erythrodermic psoriasis is a rare but serious form that causes widespread redness, scaling, and skin shedding across large areas of the body. It can affect temperature regulation and fluid balance and requires urgent medical care.

Scalp and Nail Psoriasis

Psoriasis can also affect specific areas:

• Scalp psoriasis may cause flaking, scaling, and itching along the scalp and hairline.
• Nail psoriasis can lead to pitting, thickening, discoloration, or separation of the nail from the nail bed.

Understanding the type or types of psoriasis present can help guide treatment and management decisions.

Psoriasis Triggers

Psoriasis symptoms often follow a pattern of flares and periods of improvement. While the underlying immune dysregulation remains present, certain factors can increase inflammation and trigger flare-ups. These triggers vary widely from person to person, which is why psoriasis can feel unpredictable.

Common Psoriasis Triggers

Some of the most commonly reported psoriasis triggers include:

• Stress: Emotional or physical stress is one of the most frequent triggers. Stress can activate inflammatory pathways that worsen symptoms.
• Infections: Certain infections, particularly strep throat, have been linked to flare-ups, especially in guttate psoriasis.
• Skin injury: Cuts, scrapes, sunburns, or other skin trauma can trigger new psoriasis patches at the site of injury.
• Cold or dry weather: Low humidity and cold temperatures can dry out the skin and exacerbate symptoms.
• Medications: Some medications may worsen psoriasis in certain individuals, including specific blood pressure medications and lithium.
• Smoking and alcohol: Both have been associated with increased inflammation and more severe symptoms in some people.

Why Triggers Are Individual

Not everyone with psoriasis reacts to the same triggers, and some people may have multiple contributing factors at once. Tracking symptoms over time can help identify patterns, which may support more effective flare management.

Avoiding triggers does not cure psoriasis, but it can help reduce the frequency or severity of flares for many individuals.

How Psoriasis Is Diagnosed

Psoriasis is usually diagnosed based on a clinical evaluation rather than a single test. A healthcare provider will assess symptoms, medical history, and physical findings to determine whether psoriasis is present.

Clinical Examination

Diagnosis often begins with a visual exam of the skin, scalp, and nails. The appearance and distribution of plaques, scaling, and inflammation provide important clues.

A clinician may also ask about:

• Family history of psoriasis
• Timing and pattern of symptoms
• Possible triggers or recent infections
• Joint pain or stiffness

Skin Biopsy

In some cases, a small skin sample may be taken and examined under a microscope. This can help confirm the diagnosis or rule out other skin conditions when symptoms are unclear.

Evaluating for Related Conditions

Because psoriasis is associated with systemic inflammation, clinicians may also screen for related issues, such as:

• Psoriatic arthritis
• Metabolic conditions
• Other inflammatory or autoimmune disorders

Early identification of joint involvement is especially important, as timely care can help protect long-term joint health.

Psoriasis Treatment Options

Psoriasis treatment focuses on reducing inflammation, managing symptoms, and improving quality of life. Because psoriasis varies widely in severity, location, and impact, treatment plans are highly individualized.

There is no single treatment that works for everyone, and approaches may change over time depending on symptoms, flares, and overall health.

Topical Treatments

Topical therapies are often the first line of treatment, especially for mild to moderate psoriasis. These treatments are applied directly to the skin and may help reduce scaling, redness, and discomfort.

They are typically used to manage localized plaques and may be adjusted based on response and tolerance.

Light-Based Therapies

Phototherapy uses controlled exposure to specific types of ultraviolet light to slow excessive skin cell growth and reduce inflammation. This approach may be recommended for more widespread or persistent psoriasis.

Light therapy is usually supervised by a healthcare provider to ensure safety and effectiveness.

Oral and Injectable Medications

For moderate to severe psoriasis, or when other treatments are not effective, systemic medications may be considered. These medications work throughout the body to target immune pathways involved in inflammation.

Because systemic treatments can affect the immune system more broadly, they require careful monitoring and ongoing follow-up with a clinician.

Ongoing Management

Psoriasis treatment is rarely static. What works during one phase of the condition may need to be adjusted over time. Regular follow-up helps ensure that treatment remains appropriate and aligned with symptoms and goals.

Treating Psoriasis Naturally

Many people with psoriasis are interested in treating psoriasis naturally or supporting conventional treatment with lifestyle-based approaches. While natural strategies do not cure psoriasis, they may help reduce flares, support skin health, and improve overall well-being when used thoughtfully.

Stress Management

Stress is one of the most commonly reported psoriasis triggers. Chronic stress can amplify immune activity and worsen inflammation.

Supporting stress regulation through rest, routine, and recovery may help reduce flare frequency for some individuals.

Skin Barrier Support

Keeping the skin moisturized can help reduce dryness, cracking, and irritation. Gentle skin care routines and avoiding harsh products may support the skin barrier and improve comfort.

Sleep and Recovery

Adequate sleep supports immune regulation and overall health. Poor sleep can increase inflammatory signaling and may worsen psoriasis symptoms over time.

Anti-Inflammatory Nutrition Principles

While no single diet treats psoriasis, some people find that focusing on whole, minimally processed foods supports overall inflammation balance. This may include:

• Emphasizing fruits and vegetables
• Including healthy fats
• Reducing excess alcohol intake

Responses to dietary changes vary, so personalization is important.

Avoiding Individual Triggers

Identifying and reducing exposure to personal triggers such as smoking, alcohol, or specific stressors may help reduce flare severity.

Natural approaches are most effective when used as part of a broader, clinician-guided management plan rather than as standalone solutions.

Can You Get Rid of Psoriasis?

Many people understandably search for ways to get rid of psoriasis, especially when symptoms are uncomfortable or affect daily life. Psoriasis, however, is generally considered a chronic condition, meaning it tends to persist over time rather than disappear permanently.

That said, many people experience long periods where symptoms are minimal or absent. These periods of remission can last months or even years, especially when triggers are well managed and treatment is effective.

What “Managing Psoriasis” Really Means

Instead of focusing on a permanent cure, psoriasis care is usually centered on:

• Reducing the frequency and severity of flares
• Minimizing discomfort and visible symptoms
• Supporting overall immune and inflammatory balance
• Improving quality of life

Because psoriasis is influenced by immune activity, stress, environment, and overall health, progress often comes from addressing multiple factors rather than relying on a single solution.

Setting Realistic Expectations

Claims about guaranteed psoriasis cures can be misleading and frustrating. A more realistic and sustainable goal is learning how your psoriasis behaves, identifying personal triggers, and building a management plan that adapts over time.

For many people, this approach leads to meaningful improvement and greater control over symptoms, even if the condition itself does not fully disappear.

When to Work With a Clinician for Psoriasis

While mild psoriasis may be manageable with basic skin care and lifestyle adjustments, there are times when working with a clinician is especially important.

You may want to seek clinical support if:

• Psoriasis symptoms are moderate to severe
• Flares are frequent, worsening, or spreading
• Symptoms interfere with sleep, work, or daily activities
• There is joint pain, stiffness, or swelling
• Treatments you have tried are not helping
• The condition is affecting emotional well-being

Early evaluation is particularly important if joint symptoms are present, as psoriatic arthritis can cause long-term joint damage if not addressed.

How Parsley Health Can Help

At Parsley Health, clinicians take a personalized, whole-body approach to psoriasis. Rather than viewing psoriasis only as a skin issue, they consider how immune function, inflammation, stress, metabolism, and overall health interact.

Care at Parsley Health may include:

• A comprehensive review of symptoms and health history
• Thoughtful lab testing when appropriate
• Identifying patterns related to stress, infections, or lifestyle factors
• Supporting long-term inflammation management & gut health to calm the immune system 
• Ongoing follow-up as symptoms and needs change

For individuals who already have testing from another provider, Parsley Health also offers a Bring Your Own Labs option, allowing clinicians to review existing results and help interpret them in context.

The focus is on understanding what may be contributing to flares and building a sustainable plan that supports both skin health and overall well-being.

Finding Relief From Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a common and often misunderstood condition that affects more than just the skin. While it can be frustrating to live with, understanding what psoriasis is, what causes it, and how it can be managed helps make the condition feel more manageable.

There is no one-size-fits-all solution, and there is no guaranteed cure. However, many people are able to reduce flares, improve symptoms, and regain a sense of control with the right combination of medical care, lifestyle support, and ongoing monitoring.

A personalized, whole-body approach that looks beyond the surface can make a meaningful difference. With thoughtful care and realistic expectations, living well with psoriasis is possible.

Frequently Asked Questions About Psoriasis

Is psoriasis contagious?

No. Psoriasis is not contagious and cannot be spread through physical contact. It is driven by immune system activity, not infection.

What triggers psoriasis flare-ups?

Common triggers include stress, infections, skin injury, cold or dry weather, certain medications, smoking, and alcohol. Triggers vary from person to person.

What are the different types of psoriasis?

The main types include plaque psoriasis, guttate psoriasis, inverse psoriasis, pustular psoriasis, and erythrodermic psoriasis. Psoriasis can also affect the scalp and nails.

Can psoriasis go away on its own?

Psoriasis may improve or go into remission for periods of time, but it typically does not go away permanently. Symptoms can return if triggers are present.

How is psoriasis treated?

Treatment options include topical therapies, light-based treatments, systemic medications, and supportive lifestyle approaches. Treatment is individualized based on severity and symptoms.

Can diet affect psoriasis?

Diet does not cause psoriasis, but some people find that certain eating patterns or foods influence inflammation or trigger flares. Responses vary, so personalization matters. However, many individuals report improvements in psoriasis conditions after improving their gut health as it has a strong connection with the immune system.