Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It appears as red, scaly patches that can cause itching, burning, and discomfort. While it’s not contagious, it can significantly affect one’s physical appearance and emotional well-being.
What many don’t realise is that psoriasis is not a single condition, but there are several types, each with distinct symptoms, triggers, and treatment options. This blog explains the different types of psoriasis, their causes, and the available treatments to help you manage flare-ups effectively.
What Is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis occurs when the immune system mistakenly accelerates the skin cell renewal process, causing new cells to develop much faster than they usually would. This rapid turnover leads to buildup and scaling, resulting in red, itchy, and inflamed patches.
Common psoriasis causes include:
- Genetics or family history of psoriasis
- Overactive immune response
- Stress or emotional triggers
- Infections such as strep throat
- Cold, dry weather
- Certain medications, like beta-blockers or lithium
If you’d like to learn more about what actually triggers psoriasis and how various lifestyle and environmental factors play a role, check out our detailed blog: What Causes Psoriasis? Understanding Psoriasis Triggers and Risk Factors.
While psoriasis cannot be completely cured, it can be effectively managed with the right treatment plan and consistent care.
Common Symptoms of Psoriasis
Though symptoms vary between individuals and psoriasis types, common signs include:
- Red, inflamed patches of skin covered with silvery-white scales
- Persistent itching, burning, or soreness
- Dry, cracked skin that may bleed
- Thickened or discoloured nails (in nail psoriasis)
- Joint pain or stiffness (in psoriatic arthritis)
The intensity of symptoms can range from mild irritation to severe discomfort, depending on the extent of the affected area.
Types of Psoriasis and How to Identify Them
1. Plaque Psoriasis (Psoriasis Vulgaris)
The most common form accounts for nearly 80–90% of cases.
- Symptoms: Raised, red patches covered with silvery scales, often appearing on the scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back.
- Triggers: Stress, cold weather, infections, and skin injuries.
- Treatment: Topical corticosteroids, vitamin D analogues, and phototherapy for severe cases.
2. Guttate Psoriasis
More common in children and young adults, often following bacterial infections like strep throat.
- Symptoms: Small, drop-shaped red lesions across the trunk, arms, or legs.
- Triggers: Infections, injury, or medication changes.
- Treatment: Topical creams, antibiotics for infections, and light therapy.
3. Inverse Psoriasis
Occurs in skin folds where friction and sweat are common.
- Symptoms: Smooth, shiny red patches without visible scaling.
- Triggers: Heat, humidity, and obesity.
- Treatment: Low-potency steroids, antifungal creams, and maintaining dryness in affected areas.
4. Pustular Psoriasis
Characterised by white pustules filled with non-infectious pus surrounded by red skin.
- Symptoms: Can appear on palms, soles, or all over the body.
- Triggers: Infections, stress, pregnancy, or steroid withdrawal.
- Treatment: Systemic medications, biologics, and phototherapy.
5. Erythrodermic Psoriasis
A severe and rare form of psoriasis that can be life-threatening if untreated.
- Symptoms: Widespread redness, scaling, fever, and severe itching.
- Triggers: Sudden medication withdrawal, infections, or untreated plaque psoriasis.
- Treatment: Hospitalisation, systemic drugs, and intensive hydration.
6. Nail Psoriasis
Affects fingernails or toenails, often linked with psoriatic arthritis.
- Symptoms: Pitting, thickening, yellowing, or nail separation.
- Triggers: Trauma or fungal infection.
- Treatment: Topical steroids, vitamin D creams, and biologic injections in advanced cases.
7. Scalp Psoriasis
Commonly mistaken for dandruff.
- Symptoms: Thick, scaly plaques along the scalp and hairline, often itchy and dry.
- Triggers: Stress, harsh shampoos, and cold weather.
- Treatment: Medicated shampoos (coal tar or salicylic acid), topical corticosteroids, and phototherapy.
8. Psoriatic Arthritis
A form of psoriasis that affects joints and connective tissues.
- Symptoms: Pain, swelling, and stiffness in fingers, toes, and lower back.
- Triggers: Immune dysfunction, stress, or genetic predisposition.
- Treatment: Biologic drugs, anti-inflammatory medications, and physical therapy.
Psoriasis Treatment Options
While psoriasis cannot be permanently cured, various treatments help manage symptoms, reduce inflammation, and effectively control flare-ups. The treatment plan depends on the type, severity, and triggers of the condition.
1. Topical Treatments
- Corticosteroids: Reduce inflammation and itching.
- Vitamin D analogues (Calcipotriol): Slow skin cell growth.
- Coal tar and salicylic acid: Help soften scales and relieve irritation.
- Calcineurin inhibitors: Ideal for delicate areas like the face and genitals.
2. Phototherapy (Light Therapy)
- Controlled exposure to UVB or PUVA light helps slow the production of abnormal skin cells.
- Often recommended when topical treatments are insufficient.
- Usually performed under a dermatologist’s supervision to avoid overexposure.
3. Systemic Medications
For moderate to severe psoriasis:
- Methotrexate: Slows skin cell turnover.
- Cyclosporine: Suppresses the immune response.
- Retinoids: Normalise cell growth but are unsuitable during pregnancy.
- Biologic Therapies: Target specific immune cells or proteins (e.g., adalimumab, etanercept, ustekinumab) for effective, long-term control.
4. Supportive and Home Treatments
- Keep skin moisturised using fragrance-free creams.
- Use oatmeal baths or aloe vera gel for soothing relief.
- Avoid scratching or picking at affected areas.
- Follow a consistent skincare routine to prevent flare-ups.
Medications That Can Trigger or Worsen Psoriasis
Certain medications can trigger or exacerbate psoriasis. Common culprits include:
- Beta-blockers (used for heart conditions and blood pressure)
- Lithium (used for mood disorders)
- Antimalarial drugs like hydroxychloroquine
- NSAIDs (pain relievers such as ibuprofen or naproxen)
- Steroid withdrawal after prolonged use
If you have psoriasis, always inform your doctor before starting or stopping any medication.
How to Manage Psoriasis Effectively
While medical treatment is essential, managing psoriasis also involves daily habits and lifestyle changes:
- Moisturise regularly to reduce dryness and scaling.
- Avoid known triggers, such as alcohol, smoking, and stress.
- Adopt an anti-inflammatory diet rich in fatty fish, leafy greens, and fruits.
- Get adequate sleep and exercise to boost your immunity and minimise flare-ups.
- Manage stress with relaxation techniques like yoga and meditation.
When to See a Doctor
Seek professional help if you experience:
- Rapid spreading of psoriasis patches or severe itching.
- Signs of infection (pus, pain, or swelling).
- Joint pain or stiffness, which could indicate psoriatic arthritis.
- Emotional distress or anxiety caused by visible symptoms.
If you’re uncertain whether your skin condition is improving or worsening, it’s best to consult a dermatologist for proper evaluation and a tailored care plan.
In Conclusion
Psoriasis can manifest in various forms, each requiring distinct care and treatment. Recognising your type of psoriasis and understanding its triggers are key to controlling flare-ups effectively. With modern medical treatments, lifestyle adjustments, and regular follow-ups, psoriasis can be well-managed, allowing you to live confidently and comfortably.
Struggling to Identify or Manage Your Psoriasis Symptoms?
Don’t wait for flare-ups to take over your skin. Get expert diagnosis and personalised psoriasis treatment from Dr Sneha Sood at Sood Aesthetics. With years of experience treating autoimmune skin conditions, Dr Sood provides advanced, results-driven care to restore your skin’s health and comfort. Book your consultation today and take the first step toward clearer, healthier skin.
FAQs
What are the most common types of psoriasis?
The most common type is plaque psoriasis, followed by guttate, inverse, and scalp psoriasis.
Can psoriasis be cured permanently?
Psoriasis has no permanent cure, but consistent treatment helps control symptoms and prevent flare-ups.
What triggers psoriasis flare-ups?
Stress, infections, cold weather, and certain medications can worsen psoriasis.
Is psoriasis contagious?
No. Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition, not an infection, and cannot spread from person to person.
Can diet affect psoriasis?
Yes. Eating anti-inflammatory foods, such as salmon, walnuts, and leafy greens, may help, while avoiding processed foods and alcohol can help prevent flare-ups.
