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Psoriasis
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Skin Hair Nails

Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic skin disease characterized by thick, red patches with silvery scales caused by an overactive immune system.

Overview

Psoriasis is a skin disease that causes itchy or sore patches of thick, red skin with silvery scales. These patches typically appear on the elbows, knees, scalp, back, face, palms, and feet, though they can manifest on other parts of the body. Some individuals with psoriasis also develop a form of arthritis known as psoriatic arthritis.

Causes

The condition is caused by a problem with the immune system. In a process called cell turnover, skin cells that grow deep in the skin rise to the surface. While this normally takes a month, in psoriasis, the process happens in just days because the cells rise too fast.

Diagnosis and Management

Psoriasis can be difficult to diagnose because it may resemble other skin diseases; a doctor may need to examine a small skin sample under a microscope. The condition can last a long time, sometimes a lifetime, with symptoms that come and go. Factors that can worsen symptoms include:

  • Infections
  • Stress
  • Dry skin
  • Certain medicines

Psoriasis usually occurs in adults and sometimes runs in families. Treatments include creams, medicines, and light therapy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Use medicated shampoos containing coal tar, salicylic acid, or ketoconazole 2‑3 times weekly, followed by a leave‑on topical steroid or vitamin D analogue on affected areas. Gentle brushing after shampooing can lift scales. If the scalp remains resistant, a dermatologist may recommend intralesional steroid injections or a short course of oral therapy.
Stress can trigger or worsen psoriasis by releasing inflammatory hormones that speed up skin cell turnover. Regular stress‑reduction practices such as mindfulness meditation, yoga, deep‑breathing exercises, or counseling have been shown to reduce flare frequency and severity in many patients. Combining these with a consistent topical regimen often yields the best results.
Use the steroid exactly as directed—usually a thin layer applied once or twice daily for a limited period (2‑4 weeks). Rotate to a non‑steroidal topical (e.g., vitamin D analogues or calcineurin inhibitors) for maintenance, and discuss phototherapy or systemic agents if you need longer‑term control. Monitoring skin thinning or stretch marks helps catch side effects early.
Pregnancy can improve, worsen, or leave psoriasis unchanged. Certain systemic drugs (methotrexate, acitretin, and some biologics) are contraindicated because they can harm the fetus. Topical steroids (low‑to‑mid potency) and moisturizers are generally safe. Discuss a pregnancy‑friendly plan with your dermatologist early, and consider switching to approved biologics (e.g., certolizumab) if needed.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

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