Psoriasis: Facts vs. Fiction About Causes, Treatments, and Triggers

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects millions of people worldwide. Despite its prevalence, misconceptions about psoriasis persist, leading to stigma, misinformation, and confusion. These myths can impact how people with psoriasis are treated and how they manage their condition.

In this article, we will debunk common psoriasis myths and provide accurate information to help those affected by the condition—and those around them—better understand it.

Myth #1: Psoriasis Is Just a Skin Condition

The Truth: Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease, not just a skin problem.

Many believe that psoriasis only affects the skin, but the reality is that it is a systemic autoimmune condition. Psoriasis occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells, causing rapid skin cell turnover and inflammation throughout the body.

✔ Psoriasis is linked to systemic inflammation, which can increase the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and other conditions.
✔ Up to 30% of people with psoriasis develop psoriatic arthritis (PsA), which can cause joint pain, stiffness, and swelling.

While the visible symptoms of psoriasis appear on the skin, the underlying inflammation makes it a whole-body disease that requires proper management.

Myth #2: Psoriasis Is Contagious

The Truth: Psoriasis cannot be spread through touch, air, or physical contact.

One of the most damaging misconceptions about psoriasis is that it is contagious. This myth can lead to unfair stigma and social isolation for those with the condition.

✔ Psoriasis is caused by genetics and an overactive immune system, not an infection.
✔ You cannot "catch" psoriasis from someone else by touching their skin, sharing personal items, or being near them.

If someone avoids physical contact with a person who has psoriasis out of fear of "catching it," they are acting on misinformation. Educating others about the non-contagious nature of psoriasis can help reduce stigma.

Myth #3: Poor Hygiene Causes Psoriasis

The Truth: Psoriasis has nothing to do with hygiene.

Psoriasis is not caused by dirty skin or a lack of cleanliness. It is a genetic and immune system-related disease that can be triggered by:

✔ Stress
✔ Infections (e.g., strep throat)
✔ Weather changes
✔ Skin injuries (cuts, burns, scrapes)
✔ Certain medications

People with psoriasis often have overactive immune systems, causing their skin cells to regenerate too quickly. This excess skin buildup leads to the scaly patches and plaques associated with psoriasis. Washing more frequently or using harsh soaps will not cure psoriasis and may even make symptoms worse by drying out the skin.

Myth #4: All Psoriasis Is the Same

The Truth: There are several types of psoriasis, each with unique characteristics.

Many assume that psoriasis only appears as red, scaly patches, but there are actually multiple forms of psoriasis:

✔ Plaque Psoriasis (Psoriasis Vulgaris): The most common type, with thick, scaly plaques on the scalp, knees, elbows, and lower back.
✔ Guttate Psoriasis: Small, drop-shaped lesions, often triggered by strep throat or infections.
✔ Inverse Psoriasis: Smooth, red patches found in skin folds (under the breasts, groin, armpits).
✔ Pustular Psoriasis: White pustules (blisters filled with pus) on inflamed skin.
✔ Erythrodermic Psoriasis: A severe, life-threatening type that causes full-body redness, shedding, and intense pain.

Since psoriasis varies in type and severity, not all treatments work the same for everyone. It’s important to work with a dermatologist to find the best approach.

Myth #5: Diet Has No Impact on Psoriasis

The Truth: While diet is not a cure, certain foods can help reduce inflammation.

There is no one-size-fits-all psoriasis diet, but studies suggest that certain foods may help manage symptoms, while others can trigger flare-ups.

Foods That May Help Psoriasis:
✔ Omega-3 fatty acids (found in salmon, walnuts, and flaxseeds) have anti-inflammatory benefits.
✔ Leafy greens, berries, and turmeric contain antioxidants that may reduce inflammation.
✔ Maintaining a healthy weight can help lower the severity of psoriasis symptoms.

Foods That May Worsen Psoriasis:
✖ Processed foods and refined sugars can increase inflammation.
✖ Dairy and red meat contain saturated fats that may contribute to flare-ups.
✖ Alcohol is a known psoriasis trigger for some people.

While diet alone will not cure psoriasis, eating an anti-inflammatory diet may help manage symptoms.

Myth #6: Psoriasis Can Be Cured

The Truth: There is no cure, but treatments can control symptoms effectively.

Psoriasis is a lifelong condition, but with proper treatment, many people achieve clear or nearly clear skin.

✔ Topical treatments (steroids, coal tar, salicylic acid, vitamin D analogs) help mild psoriasis.
✔ Phototherapy (UVB light therapy) slows skin cell overproduction.
✔ Systemic medications (biologics, immunosuppressants) are used for severe cases.
✔ Nopsor Treatment: A natural, steroid-free psoriasis treatment containing coal tar and salicylic acid, applied at night for best results. Learn more at www.nopsor-usa.com.

While there is no cure, psoriasis can be managed successfully with the right treatment plan.

Myth #7: Psoriasis Is Only a Cosmetic Issue

The Truth: Psoriasis can have serious physical and emotional effects.

Psoriasis is not just about appearance—it can cause:

✔ Severe itching, burning, and pain
✔ Cracking and bleeding skin
✔ Increased risk of psoriatic arthritis
✔ Higher chances of developing heart disease, diabetes, and depression

Additionally, people with psoriasis often experience emotional distress, including:

✔ Low self-esteem due to visible symptoms
✔ Anxiety and depression from social stigma
✔ Workplace challenges due to misunderstandings about the disease

Raising awareness about psoriasis as a serious medical condition can help combat misinformation and stigma.

Final Thoughts: Educating Others About Psoriasis

By debunking these common psoriasis myths, we can help reduce misunderstanding and stigma around this chronic condition.

✔ Psoriasis is not contagious, not caused by poor hygiene, and not just a skin condition.
✔ While there’s no cure, effective treatments exist, including Nopsor’s natural psoriasis treatment.
✔ A healthy lifestyle, stress management, and medical treatment can significantly improve symptoms.

For natural, steroid-free psoriasis relief, explore Nopsor’s treatment, formulated with coal tar and salicylic acid to support psoriasis-prone skin. Learn more at www.nopsor-usa.com.