It starts with setting realistic expectations for the season
For me, managing holiday stress with psoriatic arthritis(PsA) really comes down to protecting my energy: physically, emotionally, and socially. The holidays can be so joyous, but they can also be exhausting. Between navigating endless to-do lists, family dynamics, colder weather, travel, and packed calendars, it’s a time of year that can push my body and nervous system past their limits pretty quickly if I’m not intentional about how I move through it.
I’ve learned to start by setting realistic expectations. I used to say yes to everything, every invitation, every tradition, every last-minute errand because I didn’t want to let people down or miss out. But now I’m much more honest with myself about what I actually have the capacity for. I ask: What matters most to me this season? What can I let go of? That alone takes so much pressure off.
I also try my best to plan ahead in ways that reduce the chaos. I spread things out over a few weeks instead of cramming errands and prep into one weekend. I look at what else is on my calendar before committing to anything new, and I make sure to block off time for rest, especially if I know something will require more energy or recovery, like travel or a family gathering.
Comfort is another big part of how I get through the season. I’ve let go of trying to look perfectly put together in ways that don’t actually feel good. These days, I’m prioritizing warm layers, soft clothes, supportive shoes and whatever else helps me stay grounded and comfortable in my body. If that means showing up to the holiday party in sneakers and carrying heat packs in my bag, so be it.
Emotionally, I try to give myself space to feel whatever’s coming up. The holidays can stir up grief and frustration of not being able to participate the way I want to. I don’t force myself to be cheerful if I’m not feeling it. But I also try to stay open to small moments of joy and connection, even if they don’t look like I envisioned. Some years, that means new traditions, or quieter ones; it’s saying no to protect my peace and not feeling bad about it.
More than anything, I remind myself that I don’t need to earn rest or prove anything to anyone. Living with PsA means I already have to be mindful of how I use my energy all year long, but during the holidays, I double down on that to avoid stress and burnout. It’s not about doing everything. It’s about doing what matters, in a way that is mindful of how I feel!
20 minutes of what feels like laying in just the right amount of warmth has its perks
If you have had to battle with a chronic skin condition for a long time, you’ve likely found yourself willing to resort to every solution possible in the hope for a cure, or at least the best symptom management solution. I’ve dealt with psoriasis — an autoimmune skin condition that shows up in the form of redness and scaly patches on your skin — for half my life now. It started with a patch on my scalp for a few years which I managed to contain, and eventually turned into red, scaly patches on the body. It flares up with the regular culprits — pollution, stress, environmental aggressors — and only ever settles with the help of a steroid ointment application. While my scalp patches now only need maintenance, the flare ups on the body come back with a vengeance every time I’ve partied too hard, been too stressed or not slept well enough. And with my erratic lifestyle, all of this happens more often than I’d like.
Red light therapy came into the limelight as a form of inflammation reduction and cellular regeneration. From in-clinic facial treatments to at-home use LED masks, it was everywhere. Then came the red light beds, providing the same benefits but for the entire body. “Red and near infrared light therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses red or near infrared wavelengths, working through a process called photobiomodulation, which means using light to change how skin cells behave,” explains Dr. Shabana Daya, a UK-based integrative aesthetic doctor and a dermatology-trained GP. “This light is absorbed by tiny structures in the skin cells called mitochondria, which boost their ATP or energy production, helping skin cells repair and renew themselves faster.” In the case of psoriasis, the immune system triggers overproduction of skin cells and inflammation, all of which can be calmed in mild to moderate cases with the use of red light therapy. “It can help calm inflammation and help your skin cells work more normally by restoring their energy balance,” says Daya, who is also on the scientific advisory board of wellness tech brand BON CHARGE. “This can slow down the rapid cell growth that causes thick, scaly patches in psoriasis.”
Photo: O2O Creative (Getty Images)
My red light therapy bed experience
I did my research, spoke to my dermatologist for her nod of approval, and decided that a red light therapy bed session was worth giving a shot to, just in case it can help with psoriasis management without the use of steroids. The pre-session rules: You’re meant to have eaten a proper meal and be well hydrated. It’s essential that you go in with minimal clothing to maximise light exposure so I did so only in my underwear. All metal is to be taken off. The physician at the clinic I visited also checked my blood pressure beforehand.
Once I lay down on the bed, the physician came in to shut the upper half onto me after handing me light blocking eye shades. Disclaimer: Even though this bed chamber does not entirely shut or touch your body from the top, if you are claustrophobic, I’d suggest putting the shades on before it’s shut on you. Even though it’s left open enough and actually isn’t very intimidating, it can feel like it when you watch a full cover come down on you.
Expect to feel a comforting warmth (nothing close to a sauna) for a duration of 20 minutes. It almost feels meditative considering your eyes are covered and neither do you have access to any devices; a welcome change. You do need to be still throughout since there isn’t too much wiggle room but that won’t feel like a struggle — the time runs faster than you’d think, without any discomfort.
The results
Your body will feel a bit warm for a couple of hours once you’re done, and you’re meant to hydrate well after, which is the only post care. Just before I put my clothes back on, I noticed an instant reduction in redness and itchiness around inflamed scaly patches which was a pleasant surprise. When it comes to wellness treatments, they often work from the inside out, meaning you have to either trust the process or feel the difference before you can witness it. Being able to see an immediate visible result was what made me a believer.
I was out of the wellness clinic in under five minutes and went about the rest of my day normally, making this a great lunchtime treatment as well, even when you’re pressed for time. I’ve gone back multiple times ever since and plan to continue to do so.
As is the case with most treatments, you need to sign up for consistent sessions once a week for 4-6 weeks to notice long term results. For psoriasis, you can start with this frequency and then look at it as a management treatment add on with a frequency that works for the severity of your condition.
Does this mean you can skip steroidal treatments?
Unfortunately, red light therapy isn’t an all-encompassing solution for psoriasis, it’s additional support. “In isolation, it can help with mild to moderate plaque psoriasis, as a gentle non drug symptom reducing tool. Red light therapies would be better paired as a complimentary tool for long term management,” explains Daya. Don’t give up on your creams and ointments just yet, especially if you have severe psoriasis, and definitely not without consulting your dermatologist. “Red and near infrared light therapy can help calm inflammation, scaling and redness in psoriasis anywhere where the light will directly reach the psoriatic plaques,” says Daya. “For facial psoriasis this can be used as an adjunct to treatment. For scalp psoriasis it can be used, although efficacy will be reduced due to hair acting as a barrier.”
While a red light therapy bed works on the entire body, a mask using the same has proven to significantly improve facial skin. “Red light also triggers fibroblasts, which are cells in the skin crucial for producing collagen, the protein that gives skin youthful qualities like plumpness and elasticity. With regular use, these wavelengths can stimulate components to maintain and improve skin quality leading to a healthier, more radiant complexion,” explains Daya.
If you’re living with psoriasis, you already know that it’s far more than just a skin condition. The persistent redness, scaling, flaking, and itching can be physically uncomfortable and emotionally exhausting. These symptoms often affect more than your appearance: they can impact your sleep, self-esteem, social life, and even your mental health. For many people, managing psoriasis is a daily challenge that requires constant vigilance and, often, a frustrating cycle of trial and error with treatments.
Whether you’ve tried multiple topical creams, light therapies, or systemic medications, it’s not uncommon to feel stuck, especially when side effects become unbearable or treatments lose effectiveness over time. But there’s some exciting news for those who are still searching for better solutions.
In recent years, psoriasis research has made major strides. Scientists now understand far more about the immune pathways involved in the disease, and this has paved the way for a new generation of therapies that are more precise, effective, and better tolerated. From advanced oral medications and long-lasting injectables to innovative topical creams that go beyond basic symptom control, the treatment landscape is evolving fast.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the most promising treatments currently in development and those recently approved. You’ll get a closer look at how these therapies work, what makes them different, and why experts are feeling optimistic about the future of psoriasis care. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or have been living with psoriasis for years, there are real reasons to feel hopeful about what’s coming next.
Why Psoriasis Is So Complex
Before we explore the latest treatment options, it’s helpful to understand why psoriasis is often so difficult to manage and why there’s no one-size-fits-all solution.
At its core, psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition. That means the body’s own defence system, which is supposed to protect you from infections and harmful invaders, mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells instead. This triggers a rapid overproduction of skin cells, which causes them to accumulate on the skin’s surface far faster than normal. The result? Thick, scaly, inflamed patches that can itch, crack, and feel incredibly uncomfortable.
But what causes the immune system to go into overdrive in the first place? That’s where things get even more complex. Psoriasis is influenced by a variety of internal and external triggers, and these can differ significantly from person to person. Common factors that can spark or worsen psoriasis include:
Genetics: If someone in your immediate family has psoriasis, your risk of developing it increases. Certain genes have been linked to the condition, although not everyone with those genes will go on to develop symptoms.
Infections: Bacterial or viral infections, especially strep throat, can trigger flare-ups, particularly in children or those genetically predisposed.
Stress: Emotional and physical stress are well-known contributors. Stress can disrupt immune function and spark inflammation, setting off or aggravating symptoms.
Skin injuries: Even minor trauma like cuts, scrapes, sunburns, or insect bites can lead to new patches of psoriasis in a phenomenon known as the Koebner response.
Medications: Certain prescription drugs including beta-blockers, lithium, and some anti-malarials have been linked to psoriasis flares in susceptible individuals.
Because so many different factors are involved, managing psoriasis isn’t just about treating the skin, it’s about treating the underlying immune dysfunction. That’s why most effective treatments work on two levels:
Calming the immune system to reduce inflammation and prevent flare-ups.
Supporting skin healing by slowing cell growth, relieving symptoms, and restoring the skin barrier.
And to complicate things further, no two people with psoriasis are exactly alike. The severity of symptoms, the triggers, and the way your body responds to treatment can vary enormously. A cream or medication that works wonders for one person may offer little relief to another.
This complexity is one of the reasons why psoriasis research is so vital. It helps pave the way for more personalised, effective treatments and gives patients more options to find what works best for them.
What Makes New Treatments Different?
For years, people with moderate to severe psoriasis have relied on older therapies like traditional systemic drugs (such as methotrexate or cyclosporine) and high-potency topical steroids. While these treatments have helped many manage their symptoms, they also come with potential downsides. Long-term use can lead to issues such as liver toxicity, widespread immune suppression, or thinning and damage to the skin.
That’s where newer treatments are beginning to make a real difference. Current research is focused on precision medicine developing therapies that zero in on the specific immune pathways responsible for psoriasis, rather than affecting the immune system as a whole. These targeted approaches aim to interrupt the overactive immune signals without suppressing the body’s entire defence mechanism.
The result? Treatments that may offer better disease control with fewer systemic side effects, allowing patients to manage their psoriasis more effectively and with greater confidence in the long-term safety of their care.
Next-Generation Oral Medications
Oral treatments have traditionally included drugs like methotrexate or cyclosporine, which work by broadly dampening the immune system. Today’s research is aiming for more selective options.
TYK2 Inhibitors
One of the most anticipated new classes is the TYK2 inhibitors. TYK2 is an enzyme involved in inflammatory signalling. By blocking it, these drugs can reduce psoriasis activity without fully suppressing the immune system. Deucravacitinib is the first TYK2 inhibitor to show promising results in phase 3 trials.
In studies, it significantly improved skin clearance with a safety profile considered better than some older oral drugs.
Potential benefits:
Once-daily dosing
No need for injections
Lower risk of infections compared to broad immunosuppressants
This could be an important option for people who prefer tablets over biologics.
Targeted Injectable Biologics
Injectable biologics have transformed psoriasis treatment over the past 15 years.
Medications like adalimumab, ustekinumab, and secukinumab target specific cytokines molecules that fuel inflammation. The newest generation goes even further in precision.
IL-23 Inhibitors: IL-23 plays a critical role in psoriasis inflammation. New IL-23 inhibitors, including guselkumab and risankizumab, block this molecule more selectively than older biologics.
Why does this matter?
They’re highly effective in achieving near-complete skin clearance.
They generally have fewer side effects than TNF inhibitors.
They require infrequent dosing (every 8–12 weeks).
For many people, this means better results with less disruption to daily life.
IL-17 Inhibitors
Among the newer classes of biologic treatments, IL-17 inhibitors have emerged as a particularly effective option for many people with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis. Medications in this category such as ixekizumab (Taltz) and brodalumab (Siliq)work by blocking interleukin-17, a key inflammatory cytokine involved in the development of psoriatic plaques.
By targeting this specific part of the immune cascade, IL-17 inhibitors help disrupt the cycle of inflammation that causes rapid skin cell turnover and the build-up of thick, scaly patches.
These medications continue to show impressive long-term results in clinical studies, offering both durability and effectiveness. Some of the potential advantages include:
Rapid improvement: Many patients experience significant symptom relief within just a few weeks of starting treatment.
Effectiveness in hard-to-treat areas: IL-17 inhibitors have shown particularly strong results on areas that are often resistant to treatment, such as the scalp, nails, and palms.
Ongoing research is focused on optimising dosing schedules and further evaluating long-term safety, especially in real-world settings. So far, the data suggests that these medications can offer sustained control of psoriasis with a relatively favourable safety profile.
New Topical Treatments
Not everyone with psoriasis needs systemic drugs. For mild to moderate cases, topical treatments remain first-line therapy. Research is focusing on smarter creams and ointments that deliver results without the drawbacks of steroids.
PDE4 Inhibitors: PDE4 inhibitors, such as crisaborole (already used in eczema), are being adapted for psoriasis. They reduce inflammation by blocking the enzyme phosphodiesterase 4.
Benefits:
Steroid-free
Suitable for sensitive areas
Lower risk of skin thinning
Clinical trials are underway to confirm their role in plaque psoriasis.
Topical JAK Inhibitors
Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors represent an exciting and relatively new approach to treating psoriasis especially in topical form. These medications work by blocking the activity of specific enzymes (JAKs) that play a key role in transmitting inflammatory signals within cells. By interrupting this process, JAK inhibitors can help reduce the immune-driven inflammation that fuels psoriasis symptoms.
What makes topical JAK inhibitors especially promising is their ability to target inflammation directly at the skin level. Because they’re applied as a cream or ointment, they act locally limiting systemic absorption and reducing the risk of broader side effects often associated with oral or injectable treatments.
Early clinical studies have shown that these topicals may be particularly effective for treating small, localised, and persistent plaques especially in patients who haven’t responded well to standard creams. They may also serve as a valuable alternative for individuals who require stronger topical therapy but are looking to avoid long-term use of corticosteroids, which can thin the skin over time.
Several topical JAK inhibitors are currently under investigation or awaiting regulatory approval, and dermatologists are optimistic about their role in filling the gap between mild and systemic treatment options.
Advances in Light Therapy
Phototherapy has been a cornerstone of psoriasis treatment for decades especially narrowband UVB therapy, which helps slow skin cell growth and reduce inflammation. While effective, traditional light therapy often requires patients to visit a clinic several times a week, which can be time-consuming and difficult to maintain over the long term.
Fortunately, researchers and device developers are now finding innovative ways to make light therapy safer, more convenient, and more patient-friendly.
Some of the most promising advances include:
Home-based phototherapy units: Newer at-home devices are designed with built-in timers, safety locks, and exposure controls to minimise the risk of overuse or UV damage. These portable units allow patients to continue treatment without frequent clinic visits, making it a practical solution for those with busy schedules or limited access to dermatology centres.
Targeted laser therapy: For people with isolated or stubborn plaques, targeted laser devices (such as excimer lasers) can deliver concentrated UVB light to affected areas without exposing surrounding healthy skin. This approach can be particularly helpful for areas like the elbows, knees, or scalp.
Combination treatments: Light therapy is increasingly being paired with topical medications, such as vitamin D analogues or retinoids. This dual approach may enhance effectiveness while potentially reducing the need for higher UV doses.
Together, these innovations are helping to broaden the appeal and practicality of phototherapy, especially for patients seeking non-drug alternatives or wishing to minimise systemic treatments. As these technologies continue to improve, more people with psoriasis may be able to benefit from light therapy in ways that are safer, more precise, and easier to stick with.
Emerging Areas: Microbiome and Gene Therapy
Looking further ahead, researchers are exploring novel strategies to treat psoriasis at its root.
Microbiome-Based Treatments
The skin and gut microbiomes communities of bacteria living in and on your body are increasingly recognised as important in psoriasis.
Future treatments may include:
Probiotic supplements to rebalance gut bacteria
Topical applications of beneficial microbes
Prebiotics that support healthy microbial diversity
Although these are mostly in early stages, they could offer new, low-risk options down the line.
Gene Therapy and RNA-Based Treatments
While most current psoriasis treatments focus on managing symptoms or calming the immune system, scientists are now exploring the possibility of going deeper right to the genetic level.
Emerging research in gene therapy and RNA-based treatments aims to address the root causes of psoriasis by altering how genes linked to the disease behave. Instead of suppressing inflammation after it starts, these therapies could one day prevent the abnormal immune response from happening in the first place.
One approach under investigation is gene editing, which involves modifying or disabling specific genes that play a role in psoriasis. Another is RNA interference (RNAi)a technique that uses small RNA molecules to block the production of inflammatory proteins at the cellular level. These treatments could be highly precise, affecting only the problematic immune signals while sparing healthy cells.
Right now, both gene therapy and RNAi are still in the early experimental stages and not yet available for clinical use in psoriasis. However, early studies in labs and animal models are showing promise.
While it may take several more years of research and testing, these innovations hold exciting long-term potential. In the future, they could offer people with psoriasis a chance at not just symptom control but lasting, disease-modifying treatment.
Lifestyle and Self-Care Still Matter
While cutting-edge medical treatments are transforming psoriasis care, it’s important not to overlook the impact of daily habits and lifestyle choices. Even with the best medications, how you care for your body on a day-to-day basis can make a significant difference in managing symptoms, reducing flare-ups, and improving overall skin health.
Dermatologists consistently emphasise the value of supportive self-care routines, which can complement clinical treatments and help keep psoriasis under control. Key recommendations include:
Moisturising regularly: Dry skin can worsen itching and make plaques more uncomfortable. Using moisturisers daily, especially after bathing, helps maintain the skin barrier and reduce irritation.
Avoiding common triggers: Smoking, heavy alcohol consumption, and high levels of stress are all known to provoke flare-ups in many individuals. Identifying and managing your personal triggers can be a powerful tool in reducing symptom severity.
Maintaining a healthy weight: Obesity has been linked to more severe psoriasis and reduced treatment response. Even modest weight loss can improve outcomes and reduce inflammation throughout the body.
Sticking with your treatment plan: It’s tempting to pause medication when your skin starts to clear, but consistency is key. Psoriasis is a chronic condition, and staying on track even during calm periods helps prevent flare-ups from returning.
By combining the latest medical advances with thoughtful, ongoing self-care, you give yourself the best chance of achieving long-term stability and healthier skin. It’s a team effort between your treatment plan, your dermatologist, and your daily choices.
What Should You Do Now?
If you’re struggling with psoriasis or thinking about changing treatments, don’t wait to talk to a specialist.
A dermatologist can help you:
Review the latest options that suit your type and severity of psoriasis
Discuss the pros and cons of each approach
Create a plan that fits your lifestyle and goals
The landscape of psoriasis care is evolving fast and you deserve to feel informed and empowered.
Final Thought: Relief Is Within Reach
Living with psoriasis can be frustrating, but it’s an exciting time in research. New therapies whether oral, injectable, or topical are offering better results with fewer side effects. and in the coming years, options will only continue to expand.
Gout, ankylosing spondylitis, and psoriatic arthritis may appear to be distinct diseases, but they share many commonalities.
The most notable of these is that all three are rheumatic diseases caused by abnormalities in the body's immune system, leading to inflammation in the joints and throughout the body.
“There is another important commonality among gout, ankylosing spondylitis, and psoriatic arthritis,” said Professor Lee Joo-ha of the Department of Rheumatology at the Catholic University of Korea’s Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital, speaking on Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital TV. “For rheumatic diseases like psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and gout, early diagnosis and consistent management are paramount. Missing the treatment window can lead to joint damage and various complications, significantly lowering quality of life.”
Gout, ankylosing spondylitis, and psoriatic arthritis may appear to be distinct diseases, but they share many commonalities. The most crucial is that all three are rheumatic diseases caused by abnormalities in the body's immune system, leading to inflammation in the joints and throughout the body. (Credit: Getty Images)
Gout is rapidly increasing, even among young people. It is a disease in which uric acid crystals -- formed by elevated blood uric acid levels -- accumulate in or around joints, causing inflammation. “It is often due to a reduced ability to excrete uric acid through the kidneys,” Professor Lee explained. “It is not diagnosed based solely on high blood uric acid levels.”
During a severe gout flare-up, uric acid levels can actually appear normal. “Particular caution is needed during acute attacks, as levels may remain within the normal range,” Professor Lee said.
Some mistakenly believe treatment ends once a flare-up subsides, but this is not the case. “Consistent medication management of uric acid levels is essential to prevent complications like tophi or bone damage. Taking urate-lowering drugs is the core of treatment, and avoiding alcohol and certain foods also helps,” Professor Lee said. “The benefits of consistent treatment far outweigh concerns about side effects.”
Ankylosing spondylitis causes back pain that worsens at rest and improves with movement—it is not simple back pain. It is a chronic autoimmune disease in which the immune system primarily attacks the spine and pelvic joints, causing inflammation and potentially leading to gradual spinal fusion. It typically begins in young adults, primarily between the ages of 15 and 30.
Professor Lee described the hallmark symptom of ankylosing spondylitis as “inflammatory back pain that worsens with rest and improves with movement,” adding that “morning stiffness is characteristic.” Ankylosing spondylitis can also cause inflammation in other joints, as well as in the eyes, skin, and intestines.
Diagnosis involves confirming characteristic back pain and systemic symptoms, supplemented by imaging and genetic testing such as HLA-B27. Controlling inflammation and alleviating pain through medication can prevent spinal deformity and help maintain a healthy daily life. Consistent stretching and exercise are also crucial.
Psoriatic arthritis affects the skin, hands, and even the toenails. It is a chronic inflammatory disease that causes inflammation and pain in the joints, spine, and tendon attachment sites, along with psoriatic skin and nail symptoms. Diagnosis involves comprehensively assessing both skin and joint symptoms, along with blood tests and imaging studies, to differentiate it from other conditions.
Controlling inflammation and pain with medication can help manage joint damage and psoriasis symptoms. Currently, effective treatments include anti-inflammatory pain relievers, disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs), biologics, and JAK inhibitors.
Gout, ankylosing spondylitis, and psoriatic arthritis share one final commonality.
“Even if the pain seems to subside temporarily, if it recurs -- or if morning stiffness or pain persists -- it may not be ordinary pain,” Professor Lee said. “It is crucial not to dismiss these symptoms lightly and to consult a rheumatologist for an accurate diagnosis.”
KUALA LUMPUR: Dry skin and a burning sensation, along with scaly and bleeding patches, are among the symptoms experienced by those who suffer from the chronic skin disease known as psoriasis.
Their condition often worsens when exposed to sunlight or hot environments, leading patients to feel self-conscious in public.
Consultant dermatologist Dr Nur Ashikin Ahmad acknowledged that psoriasis significantly affects patients’ emotions and self-esteem: many feel ashamed, insecure, and stressed owing to social stigma.
“Managing symptoms with proper treatment is essential – seeing a dermatologist for effective, up-to-date therapies can help control flare-ups. When symptoms are managed, patients feel more comfortable, reducing the impact of social stigma,” she said.
She also encourages patients to seek counselling or psychological help for emotional well-being, while joining support groups or psoriasis associations can boost morale and self-confidence through shared experience.
What is psoriasis?
Psoriasis occurs when the immune system becomes overactive, causing skin cells to grow too rapidly and appear as thick, red, scaly rashes. (Envato Elements pic)
Psoriasis occurs when the immune system becomes overactive, causing skin cells to grow too rapidly. When these cells accumulate on the surface, they appear as thick, red, scaly rashes.
The exact cause of psoriasis is still not fully understood. However, besides immune-system irregularities, studies say genetic and environmental factors play a role.
“If someone has a family member with psoriasis, their risk of developing it is higher. We also find that women tend to develop psoriasis at a younger age compared to men,” Nur Ashikin said.
“This disease often flares up during bacterial infections, periods of stress or emotional pressure, or as a side effect of certain medications. Alcohol consumption and smoking can also be triggers.”
Nur Ashikin clarified that psoriasis is different from eczema, although it can be difficult to distinguish between the two as they both cause red and itchy skin.
“Psoriasis tends to cause thick, red, scaly rashes, usually found on the elbows and knees. It also commonly affects the scalp and body, with itching generally being moderate.
“Eczema, on the other hand, usually occurs in the folds of the elbows and behind the knees. Patients often experience intense itching that can disrupt sleep and daily activities.”
She also noted that in psoriasis patients, rashes typically appear symmetrically on both sides of the body.
“Psoriasis can also manifest differently depending on its type: guttate psoriasis (small drop-shaped patches), inverse psoriasis (occurring in body folds such as the armpits, under the breasts, and groin), and pustular psoriasis (red, swollen skin with pus-filled blisters).
“There is also erythrodermic psoriasis, the most severe form, where nearly the entire body becomes red, scaly, itchy, and painful. This condition can be life-threatening if left untreated.”
She advises individuals to consult a dermatologist if they notice symptoms such as persistent red, scaly rashes that do not heal despite using moisturising creams.
Other signs may include nail changes such as brittleness, thickening or pitting, as well as unexplained joint pain, especially if it occurs alongside skin rashes.
“Unlike psoriasis, eczema rarely causes joint pain or brittle nails,” Nur Ashikin said.
Treatment and management
Treatment for psoriasis varies for each patient depending on several factors, including disease severity (mild, moderate, or severe), the presence of psoriatic arthritis, and other conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, or kidney problems.
To treat skin rashes, steroid-based anti-inflammatory creams are commonly used, alongside topical treatments containing salicylic acid to soften and remove the thick scales.
Other treatment methods include phototherapy (using special UVB light to reduce inflammation and slow skin cell growth) and oral immunosuppressants to help control the overactive immune system.
While there is no permanent cure for psoriasis, current medications and modern therapies are effective in controlling inflammation, reducing symptoms, and preventing long-term complications.
Finally, Nur Ashikin recommends that psoriasis patients maintain a healthy diet and body weight, as obesity can worsen the condition.
Limiting these foods can help relieve symptoms and pain
Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that results in red, scaly skin patches.
Food choices cannot cure psoriasis, but fried foods, processed meats and sugary beverages may make the symptoms worse.
Dietitians say eating foods rich in anti-inflammatory omega-3s and fibre can help.
Inflammation is your body’s way of protecting itself when there’s an infection or tissue damage. There are two types: chronic and acute. Acute inflammation is temporary—think of a time you got a cut on your finger and your skin became red and tender but resolved with time. On the other hand, chronic inflammation is ongoing and often associated with certain health conditions like joint pain, type 2 diabetes and ulcerative colitis.
While some chronic inflammatory conditions can go unseen, symptoms of psoriasis can be harder to hide. Psoriasis is a skin condition where the immune system goes into overdrive and cause skin cells to grow and shed too quickly, leaving a person with splotchy red spots. These spots can be itchy or cracked and even cause some serious joint pain. While it is important to work with a doctor for this condition, it is also important to think about what lifestyle habits can make a difference, including what we eat.
“Psoriasis is an inflammatory condition driven by immune dysregulation, with excess pro-inflammatory cytokines (chemical messengers that coordinate immune responses). Certain foods either exacerbate or calm these processes,” says Jennifer Pallian, RD. Here, Pallian and three other registered dietitians share why deep-fried foods, processed meats, alcohol and sugary beverages are the worst foods for psoriasis, plus offer healthy eating tips to help decrease symptoms.
Credit: Getty Images. EatingWell design
1. Deep-Fried Foods
Deep-fried foods, which are often high in saturated and trans fats, can cause flare-ups for those with psoriasis. “These fats increase the LDL (bad) cholesterol in the blood, and studies show there may be a link between excess fat in the body and psoriasis symptoms,” says Maggie Michalczyk, RDN.
Plus, fried foods may have other risks. “When some foods are fried, they also produce compounds called advanced glycation end products (AGEs) during high-heat cooking, which may trigger psoriasis flare-ups,” says Lauren Manaker, M.S., RDN, LD, CLEC. AGEs can damage cells and tissues by promoting inflammation.
2. Processed Meats
According to Manaker, processed meats like hot dogs, pepperoni and chicken nuggets are packed with ingredients that may fuel inflammation. “Deli meat or any processed meat can have more saturated fats and trans fats,” says Yvette Hill, RDN, IBCLC. “Breakfast meats such as sausage and bacon would also be on this list. Also, popular snacks like beef jerky would be a food to be cautious of.” The saturated fat in these foods may contribute to keratinocyte overgrowth, says Pallian. Keratinocytes are found in the outer layer of skin, and overgrowth can result in rough and scaly red patches.
3. Alcohol
“Alcohol has been shown to trigger and worsen inflammation, affecting the lipid composition of the skin barrier,” says Hill. “Research also points to alcohol’s metabolite, acetone, which may promote keratinocyte proliferation (skin thickening).” Some research also shows that for those with psoriasis, drinking alcohol can double one’s chances of developing non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
4. Sugary Beverages and Foods
Manaker explains that drinks like sodas and sweet teas “may impact blood sugars negatively, which can lead to the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Over time, this may exacerbate psoriasis symptoms and make it harder to manage flare-ups.” “Excessive sugar consumption may also reduce the health-promoting effects of omega-3 fatty acids, which otherwise help reduce inflammation and support skin health,” adds Pallian.
Tips to Manage Psoriasis
We asked the dietitians their best healthy eating tips for managing psoriasis. Here’s what they said.
Focus on omega-3 fatty acids.A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, as well as otheranti-inflammatory foods, can help to reduce psoriasis symptoms.“Fatty fish like salmon, mackerel and sardines are anti-inflammatory all-stars,” says Manaker. “If you’re following a plant-based diet, try chia seeds, flaxseeds or walnuts [which all have] omega-3 fatty acids. Walnuts are the only tree nut that is an excellent source of ALA omega-3 fatty acids.”
Incorporate more fibre.“Fibre from whole grains, fruits and vegetables should be emphasized, not only to improve gut microbiota composition but also to lower energy intake and help with weight control, which is important because obesity and metabolic syndrome frequently coexist with psoriasis,” says Pallian.She recommends following aMediterranean diet, which is naturally rich in vegetables, fruits, legumes, fish and olive oil.
Add infermented foods.“Foods like kimchi, sauerkraut and miso are great for gut health,” says Manaker. “A healthy gut microbiome may help regulate inflammation and support your immune system.”
Make recipes with anti-inflammatory turmeric and ginger.“Turmeric (with black pepper for better absorption) and ginger are natural inflammation fighters. Add them to teas, soups or roasted veggies for a flavourful, skin-friendly boost,” says Manaker. Some of our favourite recipes with these anti-inflammatory ingredients include theseTurmeric Chicken & Avocado Wrapsand theseSesame-Ginger Watermelon-Avocado Rice Bowls.
Consider avitamin D supplement.“Taking a vitamin D supplement can be helpful, especially for those who might be deficient, because lower vitamin D levels have been linked to worse psoriasis symptoms,” says Michalczyk.Always check with your health care provider before starting a new supplement.
Keep a temporary food journal.“Everyone’s psoriasis triggers are different,” says Manaker. “Tracking what you eat and how your skin reacts can help you identify patterns and avoid flare-up foods.”
Our Expert Take
Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that causes skin cells to grow and shed too quickly, resulting in red, scaly skin patches. Psoriasis is not caused by one single factor—it is often the combination of genetic, lifestyle and environmental factors. While your food choices cannot cure or cause psoriasis, dietitians say deep-fried foods, processed meats, alcohol and sugary beverages can make the symptoms worse. Instead, eating foods rich in anti-inflammatory omega-3s and fibre can help you manage symptoms.
