How to Tell the Difference Between Scalp Psoriasis and Dandruff

From goodhousekeeping.com

They both cause those embarrassing white flakes, but the causes and treatments are different. A top dermatologist breaks it all down for you 

If your scalp is itchy and your shoulders are often covered with a snowfall of flakes, you’ve probably wondered at some point, is this just dandruff — or could it be scalp psoriasis? It's true that both conditions can cause those annoying white flakes, but dandruff and scalp psoriasis spring from different causes and warrant different treatments. Here to help sort out all the differences is dermatologist Mona Gohara, M.D., associate clinical professor of dermatology at Yale School of Medicine.

What is dandruff? The causes and symptoms

Dandruff is a very common condition of the scalp that results in dry skin flakes, which end up caught in a person’s hair or on their clothes. According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), it generally doesn’t require medical treatment, but it can be itchy and uncomfortable, as well as embarrassing to those having to deal with it. Here are the causes:

• A yeast imbalance. “There’s a type of yeast in all of our bodies called malassezia, part of our body’s normal microbiome,” says Dr. Gohara. “Dandruff, or seborrhea, is caused by an overgrowth of that.”

• An oily scalp. Dandruff can also be associated with increased oil production of the scalp, says Dr. Gohara, evidenced by greasy hair or an oily scalp.

• A scalp that’s overly dry. “Dandruff can also be the result of a too-dry scalp,” says Dr. Gohara. “Also, flaking can be caused by using too many products in the hair, or not washing products out properly — but this isn’t the same thing as dandruff.”

What is scalp psoriasis? The causes and symptoms

“Scalp psoriasis is a completely different animal from dandruff,” says Dr. Gohara. Psoriasis can appear anywhere on the body, she points out, and according to the National Psoriasis Foundation (NPF), 45 to 56% of people who have psoriasis have it on their scalp. It can feel very itchy, and at times burning or painful. Here, more information on the cause of scalp psoriasis:

• “Psoriasis is the result of an over-proliferation of epidermis, the top layer of our skin, resulting in thick, scaly plaques,” says Dr. Gohara.

• The cause of that over-proliferation is an immune dysregulation around skin cells, Dr. Gohara explains. According to the Journal of Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis, psoriasis is what is called an “immune-mediated” disease — meaning that an unknown cause brings about a dysregulation of the immune system that causes inflammation. The overactive immune system revs up the growth of skin cells, which pile up rather than shedding, creating the plaques.

• “Generally, in scalp psoriasis, the plaques are usually very dry, not oily or greasy. And there’s redness or pinkness — or with dark skin, a dark red or purplish colour," says Dr. Gohara.

• “Scalp psoriasis can be very disruptive to one’s lifestyle,” says Dr. Gohara. “It’s very obvious — everyone knows if you have it. If you have, say, a heart issue, people don’t see it, but they see the flaking from scalp psoriasis.”

How can you tell if you have scalp psoriasis vs. dandruff?

“The colour — that red, pink or purple colour — is very distinguishing of scalp psoriasis,” says Dr. Gohara. So are the dry, thick plaques, which can be silvery in colour. Scalp psoriasis can also spread beyond the hairline and behind the ears. A dermatologist can help you determine what condition you have.

What are other differences between scalp psoriasis and dandruff?

Dandruff is not associated with systemic problems in the body, Dr. Gohara points out. Psoriasis is associated with an increased risk of arthritis of the small joints or lower back, called psoriatic arthritis, as well as cardiovascular issues related to inflammation. 

What are treatments for dandruff?

There are specific over-the-counter shampoos that are designed to treat dandruff, according to the AAD. They contain different ingredients, including salicylic acid (found in Neutrogena’s T/Sal), zinc pyrithione (Head & Shoulders), coal tar (also contained in Neutrogena’s T/Gel), and selenium sulfide (Selsun Blue). And there’s also an OTC anti-yeast shampoo (Nizoral) that’s used to treat dandruff, says Dr. Gohara. Prescription options are also available through your dermatologist.

Dr. Gohara adds that anti-yeast medications are sometimes used to treat dandruff, as well as anti-inflammatory topical steroids (if the dandruff is associated with inflammation or greasy scalp).

What are treatments for scalp psoriasis?

According to the NPF, scalp psoriasis can be difficult to treat because of the hair covering the plaques. Doctors usually start with basics in treating it, says Dr. Gohara, often with prescription topical inflammatory medications, a form of steroid.

If a person has a mild case of scalp psoriasis, there are OTC psoriasis products that can be tried first, says the NPF; look for products that contain salicylic acid or coal tar. Shampoos targeted to help psoriasis can help: “Salicylic acid shampoos cut thru the over-proliferation of the skin’s top layer on the scalp,” says Dr. Gohara. There are other shampoos containing coal tar that can be tried as well.

Phototherapy, which uses UV light to slow cell growth, is also used to treat psoriasis. “As dermatologists, we’re always telling people to avoid UV light, but it’s a very effective anti-inflammatory,” says Dr. Gohara. For scalp psoriasis, a doctor can use a hand-held phototherapy device with a comb to specifically target that area, according to the NPF.

If a person’s psoriasis is moderate to severe and isn’t limited to the scalp — or if their scalp psoriasis hasn’t responded to other treatments — there are oral systemic medications available that target molecules within immune cells, says the NPF. “There are also biologics available to treat psoriasis,” says Dr. Gohara. “These have been a game-changer — they specifically target the problem in the immune system.” These medications and biologics have side effects, which your dermatologist can explain and help you consider if they're a good option for you.

If it's scalp psoriasis, are there lifestyle factors to consider?

“One thing people should be aware of is that stress can worsen psoriasis, because stress increases the hormone cortisol, which in turn increases inflammation,” says Dr. Gohara. So it makes sense to focus on whatever you can do to lower your tension level, whether that means taking yoga classes, practising mindfulness, carving out time to relax and read or reaping the benefits of daily reflective walks. 

Another concern among those with scalp psoriasis is whether it’s safe to dye one’s hair. “I would never tell someone to avoid colouring their hair, but it’s true that psoriasis tends to emerge in areas of the body that are under pressure or trauma,” says Dr. Gohara. “Hair dye, styling products and chemicals can cause trauma to one's skin. So yes, people with scalp psoriasis can get a flare up from colouring their hair. It’s a good idea to have a conversation with your stylist about using gentle formulas.”

https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/health/a38571765/scalp-psoriasis-vs-dandruff/

What causes a dry scalp, and how can you treat it?

From medicalnewstoday.com

People can have dry skin anywhere on their body, including the scalp. Although dry scalp and dandruff have similar symptoms, they have different causes and treatments

What is a dry scalp?

andriano_cz/Getty Images

People can have dry skin anywhere on the body, including the scalp. Dry skin occurs when the skin loses water too quickly.

A person with dry skin on the scalp may notice:

• patches of itchy or scaly skin
• flaky skin with a rough texture
• skin that stings or burns
• peeling skin
• itchy skin

There are many potential causes of dry skin, such as low humidity or indoor heating. In fact, the American Skin Association notes that dry skin is not usually anything to worry about.

Sometimes, however, an underlying skin condition might be the cause of a dry scalp. When this is the case, a person might need medical treatment.

The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) says that some people are more at risk of dry skin than others. These people include:

• those over 40 years of age
• those with brown, black, or fair skin
• those with jobs that involve their hands being in water a lot, such as nurses and hairdressers
• those who live in cold climates
• those who smoke

Causes

Lots of different things can lead to dry skin and a dry scalp. Some examples include:

• not drinking enough water
• using harsh cleaning products
• taking long, hot showers or baths
• living in cold, dry conditions
• using artificial heat sources, such as central heating and wood-burning stoves, that dry out the air.

Sometimes, underlying health conditions can also lead to a dry scalp. These might include the following.

Atopic dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis is the most common form of eczema.

In children, atopic dermatitis causes dry, itchy rashes anywhere on the body. In adults, rashes are less common, and a person may have skin that is extremely dry and easily irritated.

Contact dermatitis

Contact dermatitis, which is another form of eczema, happens when the skin has an allergic reaction to something it comes into contact with.

On the scalp, hair care products, hair dye, and hair accessories can all lead to contact dermatitis. Contact dermatitis can cause itching and burning or blistering of the skin.

Scalp psoriasis

Around 50% of people with psoriasis experience flare-ups on the scalp. A person may also experience:

• patches of skin that are violet or purple on black skin or red on white skin
• dandruff-like flaking
• a dry scalp
• itching that can range from mild to intense

Treatment

The best treatment for a dry scalp will depend on what is causing it.

In many cases, making healthy lifestyle choices will help. Some examples include:

• drinking plenty of water
• getting enough sleep
• avoiding caffeine and alcohol, which can dry out the skin
• avoiding certain heat sources, such as central heating and log fires
• not using harsh hair products and shampoos

Other causes may need additional treatment. If contact dermatitis is the cause, a person may require corticosteroids.

Treatments for other medical conditions that can cause a dry scalp include the following.

Atopic dermatitis

Doctors recommend that people with atopic dermatitis avoid triggers, or things that make the condition worse. Triggers are different for everyone, but some common ones include:

• stress
• sweat
• soaps and detergents
• hair care products

Sometimes, people may need medical treatment. Doctors might recommend special shampoos or biologic medications that help control the immune system.

Psoriasis

Over-the-counter products can sometimes help treat scalp psoriasis.

According to the National Psoriasis Foundation, people should try to look for shampoos that contain salicylic acid or coal tar.

In more severe cases, doctors might recommend phototherapy, which uses UV light to slow skin cell growth, or biologic drugs, which help control the inflammation.

How is it different from dandruff?

Dandruff is a common skin condition. It causes grey or white flakes of skin to appear on the scalp and in the hair.

Dandruff only affects the scalp, but people with a dry scalp tend to experience dry skin on other parts of the body as well.

According to the AAD, researchers are unsure of the exact cause of dandruff. However, it may be the result of other skin conditions, such as:

• seborrheic dermatitis, which is a skin condition that mainly affects the scalp
• tinea capitis, or ringworm, which is a fungal skin infection
• eczema
• contact dermatitis, which is a rash that occurs due to contact with an irritant or allergen
• psoriasis, which is a condition that causes skin cells to build up and form scales on the skin
• cradle cap, which is a skin condition that may result from excessive oil production by the glands that surround the hair follicles

The above conditions can also lead to dry skin on the scalp.

A person can use medicated shampoos to treat dandruff.

Prevention

There are lots of things that people can do to help prevent developing dry skin on the scalp. These include:

• washing their hair in warm, rather than hot, water
• only using gentle, fragrance-free hair cleaning products
• avoid sitting or standing close to certain heat sources, such as fireplaces
• avoid using products that irritate the scalp, such as hair dyes or hair accessories
• drinking plenty of water.

When to contact a doctor

Anyone who suspects that they have an underlying skin condition should talk with a doctor. This is especially true if the symptoms are interfering with their everyday life.

The doctor will assess the person’s skin and recommend the best treatment or course of action for them.

Summary

A person with a dry scalp may experience itching and flaking skin. Although it may look like dandruff, a dry scalp is different. The two conditions have different causes and different treatments.

Many dry scalp cases resolve on their own with a few lifestyle changes. These changes include drinking plenty of water and avoiding harsh shampoos and hair care products.

Sometimes, a dry scalp may be a symptom of an underlying skin condition. When this is the case, a person can talk with a doctor. They will be able to assess the skin and recommend the best course of action.

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/dry-scalp

Scalp Psoriasis vs. Dandruff

From verywellhealth.com

Dandruff is a common condition involving skin flakes, pruritus (itchiness), and a mild redness of the scalp. Inflammation is not a symptom of dandruff.

Psoriasis, however, is a chronic (long-term) inflammatory disease. Psoriasis can also cause dry, dandruff-like flakes, but it is a much more severe condition.

It’s important to note that although dandruff is a disease and not a symptom, dandruff-like flakes are commonly seen in scalp psoriasis and some other types of scalp conditions. The difference is where the skin breakout occurs, as well as other symptoms—such as plaques and inflammation that occur in psoriasis but not in dandruff.

This article takes a closer look at scalp psoriasis vs. dandruff.

What Is Dandruff?

Dandruff is a very common scalp condition, affecting 50 million people in the United States and nearly half of adults worldwide.

Dandruff is restricted to the scalp area, with itching and flaking without inflammation.

What Is Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a long-term autoimmune disorder that can affect the scalp and other areas of the body. An autoimmune disorder is one in which the body’s immune system attacks itself.

In psoriasis, the immune system attacks healthy skin cells, causing them to have a much quicker life cycle than normal. This leaves greyish-silvery hardened skin behind, called plaques. Psoriasis cannot be cured and involves periods of flare-ups and remissions. 

Studies have shown that approximately half of the cases of psoriasis involve the scalp.

Symptoms

Dandruff

A common sign of dandruff that is often recognized as an initial indication of the condition is noticeable white skin flakes on the hair or shoulders, along with an itchy scalp.

Symptoms of dandruff may include: 

• Mild redness of the affected area of the scalp
• Oily scalp
• Itchy skin on the head
• Whitish to yellowish flakes on the scalp
• Dry, flaky skin that worsens in a cold, dry climate
• Scaly, crusty scalp on an infant (called cradle cap)
• Skin infection from excessive scratching

Scalp Psoriasis

Scalp psoriasis may manifest with symptoms such as:

         Small red bumps that increase in size and form scales

• Lesions and dandruff-like flakes on the scalp
• Thick red or white plaques, covered in silvery-coloured scales
• Itching that often results in tearing the scales off by scratching
• Extensive hair loss (in severe scalp psoriasis)

Causes

Dandruff

The exact cause of dandruff is not well known, but many experts believe it’s caused by an excess of sebum (oil on the scalp) along with an overgrowth of a type of fungus called Malassezia yeast. 

Hormones may also play a role in the development of dandruff; this theory arises because of the prevalence of dandruff in certain life stages when hormone levels are known to be high, such as during infancy (when cradle cap is common) and adolescence, when dandruff often occurs. Factors that influence the development of dandruff flakes include:

• Cold, dry climate (which dries the scalp)
• The use of harsh hair and cosmetic products
• Shampooing the hair too often or not often enough
• A family history of dandruff (dandruff is known to run in families)

Scalp Psoriasis

Most people diagnosed with psoriasis have light skin, but psoriasis can occur in any race. Research studies show that 3.6% of Whites, nearly 2% of Blacks, and 1.6% of Hispanics have psoriasis.

Psoriasis tends to run in families, but some cases of psoriasis are not considered genetic. Having a grandparent, parent, brother, or sister with psoriasis increases the risk of getting it. While researchers are certain that psoriasis isn’t contagious, they are not sure exactly what the underlying cause is.

They do know some things about factors that play a role in its development, such as:

• The immune system’s white blood cells attack the body’s skin cells.
• The immune system attack causes the body to make new skin cells too frequently.
• The excess dead cells that are shed at the end of each cell's life cycle form the visible symptoms seen in psoriasis (such as plaques).

Treatment

Dandruff

The treatment of dandruff usually depends on the severity of the condition. For example:

• Mild dandruff can be treated at home by using a gentle shampoo without any harsh chemicals or ingredients that dry out the scalp.
• Moderate dandruff is usually treated with over-the-counter dandruff shampoos, such as those with selenium sulfide, tar, or zinc pyrithione. These shampoos help promote the removal of skin flakes and some are thought to have antifungal properties.
• Severe dandruff may require a type of prescription shampoo or topical medications such as ketoconazole antifungal shampoo. Ketoconazole is available over the counter in a solution that is not as strong as the prescription shampoo.   

Scalp Psoriasis

Scalp psoriasis is not as easy to treat as dandruff.

• Mild cases of scalp psoriasis may also be treated with over-the-counter medicated shampoos. Prescription shampoo with corticosteroids—such as Clobex—may be used to help reduce inflammation caused by scalp psoriasis. The corticosteroids will also help to reduce inflammation.
• When a person has severe psoriasis, the treatment will most likely involve systemic (involving the entire body) medications, such as oral (by mouth) medications like methotrexate. Methotrexate works to suppress the overactive immune system that causes symptoms of psoriasis in very severe cases.

Another aspect of psoriasis treatment involves eliminating triggers such as: 

• Tobacco
• Alcohol
• Stress
• Infections
• Extreme temperatures

When to See a Doctor

If your dandruff symptoms are mild, you may not need to see a doctor.

You should see a doctor when: 

• It’s been several weeks since you started using a dandruff shampoo and there is no improvement in symptoms.
• The skin on your scalp is very swollen and red or starts to drain pus or fluid.
• The symptoms have spread to other parts of your body (other than just the scalp, particularly if symptoms spread to areas that don’t have hair).
• Your symptoms are accompanied by hair loss.

You should consult with a dermatologist any time you are living with psoriasis symptoms. 

Consult with your healthcare provider if:

• Symptoms are worsening or your disease begins to flare up
• Treatments are not effective (either home treatment or prescription medication)

Prognosis

Dandruff

Although dandruff is not curable, the outlook/prognosis is good. Dandruff symptoms are usually controllable using medicated shampoo.

Scalp Psoriasis

The outcome of psoriasis treatment depends on several different factors. Like dandruff, psoriasis is not curable. Unlike that condition, however, psoriasis is often difficult to manage and flare-ups are known to occur throughout one’s lifetime.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can dandruff turn into psoriasis?

No, dandruff can't turn into psoriasis. They are two different things.

What does scalp psoriasis feel like?

Symptoms often experienced in those with scalp psoriasis include:

• Itching
• Burning
• Discomfort

Is it OK to scratch your head if you have scalp psoriasis?

Do not scratch your head if you have scalp psoriasis. Doing so could irritate your condition further and lead to complications down the line.

https://www.verywellhealth.com/scalp-psoriasis-vs-dandruff-5186832

Dandruff VS Scalp Psoriasis: What is the difference between the two?

From pinkvilla.com

Dandruff and Scalp Psoriasis are two common scalp issues. Celebrity Dermatologist and Director of Cutis Skin Studio Dr. Apratim Goel has shared about these two scalp conditions

Scalp conditions are common among people and the chances of the issues increase or worsen during the monsoon season. During monsoons, the levels of humidity and regular drenching in the rain can make your hair prone to several bacteria and fungi. And hence, possibilities of hair issues like dandruff, and frizzy hair with itchy scalp during this rainy season increases.

Other major reasons for scalp conditions are hereditary, malnutrition and infection. The treatment and your outlook differ from one scalp issue to another. If you are experiencing an itchy, flaky scalp, then you should consult a dermatologist asap. Also, when we say scalp issues it is not just dandruff. For the unversed, there are several other scalp issues and dandruff is just one of them.

                               Dandruff VS Scalp Psoriasis: What is the difference between the two?

Celebrity Dermatologist and Director of Cutis Skin Studio Dr. Apratim Goel said, "It’s not always dandruff. There are several other conditions that may seem similar to dandruff but require prescription based medications from a dermatologist for its treatment. Conditions like seborrheic dermatitis, scalp psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, tinea capitis, allergic contact dermatitis, etc may also have similar symptoms on the scalp and can only be distinguished and diagnosed by an expert."

She helped us with a guide about two common scalp issues i.e.dandruff and scalp psoriasis: 

What is dandruff and should you go to a dermatologist if you have dandruff?
She said, "Dandruff is one of the commonest conditions of the scalp, in which you get itching and observe tiny white flakes. Although dandruff is not a serious condition, neither contagious, it can be embarrassing and sometimes difficult to treat. Mild cases of dandruff don’t require you to visit a doctor, just daily shampooing will help improve the condition, moderate to severe cases require medicated lotions and shampoos for treatment."

She added, "The problem here is that many assume that the flakes of dandruff are because your scalp is dry and apply oils on the scalp. In fact, the cause of dandruff is mostly due to increased sebum (oil) secretion on the scalp. Hence in milder cases, daily shampooing removes this build-up of sebum and cleanses the scalp."

"However, in moderate to severe cases, irritated, the oily scalp also called seborrheic dermatitis, may also extend on the ears, back of the neck, eyebrows, side of the nose, etc, areas which are rich in oil glands. Dandruff is basically when this excess inflammatory oil secreted from the scalp combines with a fungus called mallesezia and causing the skin to flake and fall off. Hence, your dermatologist will advice antifungal shampoos for dandruff."

What is scalp psoriasis?
Dr. Goel explained, "Psoriasis is an immune-mediated condition when you see red, scaly, thick patches (plaques) on scalp. In psoriasis also white flakes are visible which many confuse to be dandruff and realize while scratching the scalp that there is a thick patch assumed dandruff. The immune system triggers the skin cells to grow too quickly and accumulate and hence becomes a thick plaque. "

Some points to differentiate it from dandruff – 

Long-lasting chronic condition
Can be seasonal 
Can affect other body parts like elbows, knees or even full body 
Treatment for psoriasis is prescription based creams, lotions. In severe cases, oral medications may be advised."

https://www.google.com/url?rct=j&sa=t&url=https://www.pinkvilla.com/lifestyle/health-fitness/dandruff-vs-scalp-psoriasis-what-difference-between-two-545390&ct=ga&cd=CAEYCCoUMTA4OTc1ODE2OTg4NzE3NjY2MzEyGmEyOGJiMTlmOGMzMzM1ODc6Y29tOmVuOlVT&usg=AFQjCNEd9UPx481iAcYHUeWPEZa8i4qI0Q

Let's Talk About Your Top Psoriasis Questions

From healthcentral.com

What's a plaque? Is psoriasis contagious? And why is the "p" silent? So many Qs! Here, all the As.

Getting diagnosed with psoriasis—a chronic condition that drops patches of itchy redness around your body—can leave you not just scratching your skin, but your head. What the heck is going on?!? We asked top psoriasis experts for the most common questions they hear from patients. Their explanations will help you navigate your confusion and get on your way to clearer, less irritated skin. (As for that silent “p”? Blame the ancient Greeks.)

Our Pro PanelTop Psoriasis Questions

We went to some of the nation's top psoriasis experts to bring you the most scientific and up-to-date information possible.

April W. Armstrong, M.D.Professor of Dermatology, Associate Dean for Clinical Research, and Psoriasis Program Director

Keck School of Medicine and Department of Dermatology at the University of Southern California (USC)
Los Angeles, CA

Mark Lebwohl, M.D.Chairman of the Kimberly and Eric J. Waldman Department of Dermatology

Icahn School of Medicine at Mt. Sinai
New York, NY

Gretchen W. Frieling, M.D.Dermatopathologist

Former member of the Harvard Medical School faculty
Newton, MA

What Does Psoriasis Look Like?

There are five official types of psoriasis, which are determined by the appearance of lesions. (There are also subtypes, designated by where they appear on the body.)

• Plaque psoriasis has thick, sharply demarcated red patches with what appear as loose, scales called plaques—on lighter skin, they look silvery; on darker skin, purplish. This is the most common form of psoriasis. At least 50% of scalp and nail psoriasis—which many docs consider their own psoriasis categories—happens with plaque psoriasis.
• Inverse psoriasis can look the same as plaque, but it’s hidden in the folds of skin, in areas like the groin, armpits, and belly button.
• Guttate psoriasis has small, raised, and scaly dots that are smaller than the size of your fingertip. They can appear in the hundreds, usually on your arms, legs, and torso.
• Pustular psoriasis is when you have widespread pus-filled bumps surrounded by inflammation and scaling. It’s rare and usually develops suddenly, but because your skin begins to lose its protective function, it can even be deadly, so see a doctor immediately.
• Erythrodermic psoriasis is large, lobster-red areas from head to toe that can shed and peel in sheets. It only affects 2% of those with psoriasis, but it can be dangerous—get medical attention right away.

Is Psoriasis Contagious?

When you see a rash, it’s understandable to wonder if you can get it from hugging someone, using the same towel, sleeping in the same bed, etc. And psoriasis lesions sure can look angry during a flare-up. But no matter where they are on the body—and no matter which of the five types of psoriasis someone has, even the type with pus bumps—they’re not infected or infectious.
We repeat: Psoriasis is not contagious, so you can't "catch” it from anyone else or pass it on. To be crystal clear, that means it can’t be spread in a pool or bath, through sexual contact, or by touching someone who has the skin condition.

Is There a Link Between Stress and Psoriasis?

Oh, Lady Stress. She’s one of The Boys, those Amazon Video superheroes who use their powers for evil, not good. As with so many health issues, stress loves to mess with psoriasis.

Although stress is not technically a cause of psoriasis, it is considered a trigger, though experts aren’t clear on why it impacts this skin condition. What especially sucks is the cyclical nature: Stress can make a psoriasis flare worse, which leads to even more stress—especially if the flare is in a visible spot and extensive. Imagine how this feels when you’re anxious about a big event like a job interview, wedding, or public speech.

Of course, stress is inevitable, the key is to find ways to manage it. Try talking to a friend or family member, seeing a therapist, keeping a journal, or joining an online psoriasis support group.

If I Have Psoriasis, Will I Have It for Life?

Ten percent of people with psoriasis experience what’s known as spontaneous remission—for them, the skin condition goes poof, never to be seen from again. But for the other 90%, psoriasis is indeed a life partner. An overactive immune system leads your body to grow skin cells more quickly than they should.

That said, you can reduce the severity of psoriasis, and there may also be time periods—weeks, months, even years—during which your skin is totally clear, thanks to the array of treatment options available and a few lifestyle changes. For example, if you notice that your skin worsens when you take certain medications, your M.D. can recommend other options (say pills are prompting bad side effects; you may then move to biologics).

Will My Children Inherit Psoriasis If I Have It?

If only you could write it out of the will! But alas, psoriasis is very much linked to genetics. If you have psoriasis, your offspring’s chances of developing it are 14%. If both parents have it, the child’s likelihood rises to 40%.

Silver lining? If your kids do end up with psoriasis, you’ll know what they’re going through, because you’ve lived it; your insight can be invaluable to them.

What's the Difference Between Psoriasis and Eczema?

Psoriasis and eczema are skin conditions that can be red, itchy, and annoying, and both are rooted in a family history. But the similarities essentially stop there. Here are a few key ways they’re different:

• Psoriasis is usually thick, scaly, and raised, and sometimes silvery or purplish. Eczema looks more like dry flaky skin.
• Eczema—often called atopic dermatitis, its most common type—is more prolific, affecting more than 7% of adults and 8-12% of children. Only around 3% of the population has psoriasis, and it usually appears later in life rather than during childhood.
• Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that can lead to more debilitating health issues, such as psoriatic arthritis, while eczema is just about skin.
• Eczema can often be remedied with over-the-counter treatments and creams, but psoriasis often requires Rx medications and sometimes injections and laser therapy.

What Kind of Doctor Should I See for My Psoriasis?

A dermatologist is an expert in skin, so that’s a good place to start. Even better, there are derms who specialize in the treatment of this particular skin condition, which can boost your chances of a better outcome. The National Psoriasis Foundation offers a list of specialists that you can search by city.

What Happens to Psoriasis During Pregnancy?

Some women say they have a nine-month reprieve from their psoriasis symptoms (either partial or complete skin clearing) when they are pregnant. But if your symptoms don’t subside during pregnancy or you are one of the 10-20% of women whose psoriasis worsens at this time, finding relief can be challenging.

Some of the medicines you may have been using to control your condition aren’t safe for the fetus, and others can lead to miscarriage. Methotrexate, Soriatane (acitretin), oral retinoids and Tazorac (tazarotene), and biologics shouldn’t be used, for example.

There are plenty of safe options, though, so talk with your ob/gyn and dermatologist to determine what’s best for you, and have that conversation as soon as you begin thinking about getting pregnant. Some meds take time—even years—to get out of your system.

Is Psoriasis Painful?

While there are exceptions, psoriasis lesions can itch, sting, burn, or feel sore. About 30% of people with psoriasis also develop psoriatic arthritis, a chronic immune condition that affects the joints and other areas of the body. Joints can swell and feel stiff and, in bad cases, you can end up with permanent joint damage.

What's the Difference Between Contact Dermatitis and Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition caused by genetics and a hyperactive immune system, and it can flare at any time. Once you have these red, scaly patches of skin, you usually have 'em for good.
While contact dermatitis can also be itchy, red, swollen, and sore, it isn’t raised and thick like psoriasis most often is. It’s also not chronic: As its name implies, contact dermatitis only occurs when your skin comes into contact with a substance that causes a reaction. This can include anything from laundry detergent to jewellery made with nickel.

What's the Difference Between Dandruff and Psoriasis?

Plaque psoriasis can appear on the scalp as loose, silver-coloured scales that can shed on your hair, clothing, or furniture. Like psoriasis on other areas of the body, this is a chronic condition that usually requires topical prescription products or oral medication.

Although dandruff also appears on the scalp and manifests in dry flakes that can be itchy, the flakes tend to be white. Dandruff is not considered a medical condition and doesn't typically require M.D. attention except in severe cases or if it doesn’t clear up with over-the-counter dandruff shampoo.

https://www.healthcentral.com/condition/top-psoriasis-questions