Psoriasis Awareness Month: Understanding, Managing & Living Well with Psoriasis

Psoriasis affects over 8 million people in the United States alone, yet many still don't fully understand this inflammatory skin condition. August is Psoriasis Awareness Month — a time to educate, reduce stigma, and highlight the importance of early diagnosis and effective management.

At Starling Health, our dermatology team works with patients to develop personalized treatment plans that address both the physical and emotional impact of psoriasis.

What Is Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that causes skin cells to multiply up to 10 times faster than normal. This rapid buildup leads to thick, scaly patches — called plaques — that can appear anywhere on the body but are most common on the elbows, knees, scalp, and lower back.

Psoriasis is not contagious. It's driven by an overactive immune system and is influenced by genetics, environmental triggers, and overall health.

Types of Psoriasis

• Plaque Psoriasis — the most common form, characterized by raised, red patches covered with silvery-white scales
• Guttate Psoriasis — small, dot-like spots that often appear after infections like strep throat
• Inverse Psoriasis — smooth, red patches in skin folds such as armpits, groin, and under the breasts
• Pustular Psoriasis — white, pus-filled blisters surrounded by red skin
• Erythrodermic Psoriasis — a severe, rare form that covers large areas of the body with a red, peeling rash

Common Triggers

Psoriasis flare-ups can be triggered by a variety of factors, including:

• Stress — one of the most common triggers
• Infections — especially strep throat
• Skin injuries — cuts, scrapes, sunburn (known as the Koebner phenomenon)
• Cold, dry weather
• Certain medications — including lithium, beta-blockers, and antimalarials
• Smoking and heavy alcohol use

Psoriasis and Your Overall Health

Psoriasis is more than a skin condition. People with psoriasis have a higher risk of developing:

• Psoriatic arthritis — joint pain, stiffness, and swelling (affects up to 30% of psoriasis patients)
• Heart disease — chronic inflammation increases cardiovascular risk
• Type 2 diabetes
• Depression and anxiety
• Metabolic syndrome

This is why comprehensive care that goes beyond skin treatment is so important.

Treatment Options

While there is no cure for psoriasis, many treatments can effectively manage symptoms and reduce flare-ups:

Topical Treatments

• Corticosteroid creams and ointments
• Vitamin D analogues
• Retinoids
• Salicylic acid
• Moisturizers to reduce dryness and scaling

Phototherapy

Controlled exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light can slow skin cell growth and reduce inflammation.

Systemic Medications

For moderate to severe psoriasis, oral or injected medications that work throughout the body — including biologics — may be recommended.

Living Well with Psoriasis

• Moisturize daily to reduce dryness and itching
• Avoid known triggers when possible
• Manage stress through exercise, mindfulness, or therapy
• Don't skip follow-up appointments — regular monitoring helps adjust treatment
• Talk to your dermatologist about new or worsening symptoms

When to See a Dermatologist

You should schedule an appointment if you experience:

• Persistent red, scaly patches that don't improve with over-the-counter treatments
• Joint pain or stiffness along with skin symptoms
• Significant impact on your quality of life, self-esteem, or mental health
• Worsening symptoms despite current treatment

Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent progression and reduce the risk of related health conditions.