Psoriasis
Relief for Even the Most Stubborn Psoriasis
We offer cutting-edge treatments and ongoing support to help manage and
minimize flare-ups.
What is psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a skin condition in which an overactive immune system triggers too-rapid skin cell production. That leads to skin buildup and lesions. Psoriasis isn’t contagious in any way, but it may sometimes resemble other skin lesions that are contagious.
Psoriasis is usually cyclical, so it’s common to have flare-ups that last for anywhere from a couple of weeks to several months, followed by a reprieve or remission.
What are the symptoms of psoriasis?
Psoriasis can manifest in many ways, and your symptoms differ with the type. The main forms include:
Plaque psoriasis
Plaque psoriasis, which affects about 90% of all people with psoriasis, causes thick, scaly rashes called plaques. These plaques commonly grow on the scalp, knees, elbows, and torso, but they can grow anywhere. Most people with plaque psoriasis also experience nail symptoms like crumbling, deep nail grooves, and nail bed separation.
Guttate psoriasis
Guttate psoriasis symptoms include small drop-like growths with a scaly topping, usually in the torso.
Inverse psoriasis
Inverse psoriasis appears as smooth and shiny areas of red skin. It often occurs in folds, like under the breasts.
Pustular psoriasis
Pustular psoriasis causes pus-filled bumps on your skin. It often appears on the extremities (hands and feet) but can grow elsewhere as well.
Erythrodermic psoriasis
Erythrodermic psoriasis is a rare type of psoriasis that causes a widespread red rash that triggers skin shedding in layers.
You can have two or more types of psoriasis at one time.
What causes psoriasis?
Ordinarily, skin renews itself once a month, shedding old skin as the new skin cells grow. But, when you have psoriasis, that skin renewal happens in a fraction of that time — often, just three or four days. That’s just not enough time to shed the surface skin cells, which is why the lesions appear. The reason for your immune system malfunction isn’t certain, but current research suggests that genetics and environment may both contribute.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes psoriasis?
Psoriasis is an autoimmune skin disorder in which skin cells proliferate too quickly, leading to raised, scaly plaques. Triggers may include stress, skin injury (Koebner phenomenon), infection, or medication. Genetic predisposition plays a major role. Severity and triggers differ between patients.
What types of psoriasis exist?
The most common is plaque psoriasis. Others include guttate (small, drop‑like lesions), inverse (skin folds), pustular, and erythrodermic types. Each form has distinct features and treatment needs.
How is psoriasis managed?
Treatment is based on severity and patient characteristics. Options range from topical agents to phototherapy and systemic or biologic medications. Lifestyle changes (stress management, weight control, trigger avoidance) help too. Because patient responses differ, therapy is frequently reviewed and adjusted.