If you’ve just heard the word psoriasis for the first time, you’re not alone. Psoriasis is one of the most common skin conditions worldwide — yet it’s often misunderstood. Many people confuse it with simple rashes or assume it’s contagious, but the truth is very different.
This guide will help you understand exactly what psoriasis is, what causes it, how it shows up on the skin, and how modern treatment can help you manage it effectively.
🧬 What Is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a chronic (long-term), non-contagious skin condition caused by an overactive immune system. It makes your body produce new skin cells much faster than normal — in days instead of weeks. These extra cells build up on the surface, forming red, scaly, and often itchy patches.
It’s important to know that psoriasis is not an infection — you cannot “catch” it from touching someone, and it does not spread through contact.
Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition, which means the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells in your skin, triggering rapid skin cell growth and inflammation.
🧠 What Causes Psoriasis?
The exact cause isn’t fully understood, but psoriasis is known to involve genetic, immune, and environmental factors. If someone in your family has psoriasis, your chances of developing it are higher.
Some common triggers include:
🦠 Infections: Throat or skin infections can trigger a flare-up.
💊Certain Medications: Beta blockers, lithium, and some other drugs may worsen psoriasis.
😥 Stress: Emotional stress is one of the most frequent triggers.
🩹 Skin Injuries: Even minor cuts, scrapes, or tattoos can cause new patches (Koebner phenomenon).
🥶 Cold, Dry Weather: Low humidity can dry the skin and make symptoms worse.
🍷 Lifestyle Factors: Alcohol, smoking, and obesity can also contribute.
📌 Even if you have a genetic tendency, psoriasis often appears only after one of these triggers sets it off.
🩹 Types of Psoriasis
There are several types of psoriasis, each with slightly different appearances:
Plaque Psoriasis: The most common type, with raised, red patches covered in silvery scales.
Guttate Psoriasis: Small, drop-shaped spots, often triggered by infections.
Inverse Psoriasis: Affects skin folds like the armpits or under the breasts.
Pustular Psoriasis: Pus-filled blisters on red skin.
Nail Psoriasis: Causes nail pitting, thickening, and discolouration.
Erythrodermic Psoriasis: A rare, severe type causing widespread redness and peeling.
🔍 Symptoms to Watch For
Psoriasis symptoms can vary widely but often include:
🔴 Red, raised, scaly skin patches – often itchy or sore
🪶 Thick, silvery scales – especially on elbows, knees, and scalp
💅 Nail changes – pitting, thickening, or discolouration
🩹 Cracked or dry skin – sometimes with bleeding
🦵 Joint pain or stiffness – possible sign of psoriatic arthritis
📍 Psoriasis can appear anywhere but most commonly affects the elbows, knees, scalp, lower back, and nails.
🩺 How Is Psoriasis Diagnosed?
A dermatologist can often diagnose psoriasis just by examining your skin. In some cases, a skin biopsy may be done to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions.
It’s important to consult a dermatologist early — self-diagnosis can lead to confusion with other skin conditions like eczema or fungal infections.
💊 Treatment Options for Psoriasis
While psoriasis is a long-term condition, effective treatments can control symptoms and prevent flare-ups. The right treatment depends on the type and severity of psoriasis:
🧴 Topical Treatments
Creams and ointments like corticosteroids, vitamin D analogues, or salicylic acid are commonly used for mild cases.
☀️ Phototherapy
Controlled exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light can slow skin cell growth and reduce symptoms.
💊 Systemic Medications
For moderate to severe psoriasis, oral or injectable medications help reduce immune system overactivity.
🧘♂️ Lifestyle Management
Stress reduction, moisturising, and avoiding triggers are key to long-term control.
🧭 Living With Psoriasis
Psoriasis is more than just a skin condition — it can affect confidence, mental health, and quality of life. The good news is that with early care and a personalised treatment plan, most patients live full, normal lives.
Regular follow-ups, consistent skincare, and a supportive dermatologist can make a big difference in preventing flare-ups and keeping symptoms under control.
Dr. Narayanan A offers comprehensive care for psoriasis for people from Valasaravakkam, Ramapuram, Virugambakkam, KK Nagar, Porur and other parts of Chennai — from accurate diagnosis to personalised treatment plans. Whether it’s mild plaque psoriasis or complex psoriatic arthritis, expert care can help you manage it effectively.
🧠 Key Takeaway
Psoriasis is a chronic, immune-related skin condition — but it’s not contagious, and it’s absolutely treatable. Understanding it is the first step to managing it, and with the right care, you can live confidently and comfortably. To know more, click here.